Africa-Press – Uganda. Hope for Us Uganda has organized the Batwa Run 2026 to raise funds for the construction of a vocational training centre aimed at empowering Batwa communities and persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the country.
Held under the theme “Hope, Dignity and Inclusion,” the event took place at the Kisoro Municipality Mayor’s Gardens and attracted runners, community members, leaders, and development partners.
The Executive Director of Hope for Us Uganda, Javilla Nshunguyinka, said the organization is committed to working with marginalized groups—including the Batwa, persons with disabilities, and individuals with special needs—to improve their living conditions and promote self-reliance.
He explained that the planned vocational training centre will offer practical skills training in areas such as craft making, furniture production, tailoring, poultry keeping, and other income-generating activities.
“Organizing the Batwa and PWDs Run 2026 was intended to mobilize resources for this initiative,” Nshunguyinka said.
Participants ran 14-kilometre and 7-kilometre routes passing through Kamonyi, Mutorele Junction via Nyakabande, the Kabale–Kisoro Road, Muganza Junction, and Busamba before finishing at the Mayor’s Gardens.
Representing the guest of honour, Kisoro Municipality Mayor-elect John King Mbonigaba said the run was not only about completing distances but also about supporting vulnerable communities and recognizing the Batwa and PWDs as valuable members of society.
He added that the vocational training centre will encourage the Batwa to engage in productive work, improve their skills, and enhance their livelihoods.
Mbonigaba further noted that the event promoted environmental conservation and urban cleanliness, including sanitation improvement and the planting of trees and flowers to beautify Kisoro Municipality and boost tourism. Trees were planted at the Mayor’s Gardens during the event.
Speaking on behalf of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Jasper Oyite, Assistant Warden for Law Enforcement and Operations at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, emphasized that conservation efforts require strong community participation.
He commended communities living near the park for cooperating with park authorities and noted that some Batwa-led activities are already contributing revenue to UWA. He called for continued support from both government and non-government organizations.
The Kisoro Municipal Community Development Officer, Front Birungi, praised Hope for Us Uganda for its sustained support to the Batwa and persons with disabilities, noting that both the district and municipality remain committed to improving the welfare of these communities through initiatives such as vocational training.
Meanwhile, Francis Guriro, Chairperson of the Mikingo Batwa Community in Kisoro Municipality, emphasized the importance of recognition and inclusion of the Batwa people.
He highlighted challenges faced by Batwa children, including discrimination in schools, and expressed hope that the planned vocational skills centre will open up more opportunities and improve livelihoods within the community.
