Kadaga Urges Peaceful Coexistence Between Refugees and Host Communities at Kampala Marathon

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Kadaga has called for stronger ties between refugees and host communities, describing the Urban Refugee Marathon as a unifying platform that promotes peaceful coexistence.

Kadaga made the remarks at the second edition of the Urban Refugee Marathon, flagged off at Old Kampala Secondary School under the theme, "To Build the Community as Superpower."

Hundreds of runners, many of them refugees clad in jerseys bearing their national flags, participated in the 5km and 10km races that cut across Old Kampala, Wandegeya, Mulago, and Nakulabye.

"The importance of such a marathon is that it fosters coexistence between the host nation and the refugees," Kadaga said.

"Uganda is one of the most hospitable countries for refugees in the world, and activities like this not only promote peace but also encourage healthy lifestyles."

Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, commended humanitarian efforts in refugee support and urged refugees to contribute meaningfully to society.

"I applaud AIRD under Fikru Abebe for their tireless work in addressing refugee challenges in Uganda. I encourage all refugees to actively participate in community development and behave in ways that strengthen our social fabric," Walusimbi said.

Kisanet Tedros, an Eritrean community leader and refugee in Uganda, said the marathon was more than a sporting event—it was a declaration of unity, dignity, and appreciation for Uganda’s leadership.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni and the Office of the President – Diaspora Affairs for championing this cause and creating a peaceful home for refugees. Uganda has shown the world what true hospitality looks like," she said.

The marathon was supported by several international and local organisations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UNHCR, Uganda Red Cross Society, Africa Initiative for Relief and Development, Forum for Youth Organization, Children's Rights, Violence Prevention Fund, and members of the Ethiopian, Eritrean, Rwandan, Sudanese, and Nigerian communities.

Uganda currently hosts over 1.7 million refugees and asylum seekers, making it the largest refugee-hosting country in Africa.