Kampala, Uganda – April 8, 2023 – Subaru drivers from Kenya and Uganda, united under the banner of Forester Nation, converged at Mogas Naalya in Kampala on April 8, 2023, to embark on a noble mission: a charity run dedicated to raising funds and supplies for the children with special needs at Namutamba Rehabilitation Center in Mityana district, Uganda.
The event, aptly named the “East African Charity Run for Namutamba Rehabilitation Center for Children,” aimed to harness the generosity of Subaru drivers in East African countries, contributing to a brighter Easter season for the children residing at the Namutamba Rehabilitation Center.
Prosy Mbabazi, President of Forester Nation Uganda, kicked off the fundraising drive with a profound sense of purpose. Speaking at the event, Mbabazi highlighted the commitment of Subaru drivers to make a meaningful impact in their communities. She expressed, “Although Subaru drivers are often associated with showbiz, this time, we are giving back to the community.”
For the past two years, Forester Nation Uganda and Kenya have been dedicated to supporting underprivileged children. This year, Uganda had the privilege of hosting the charity run. Mbabazi shared their intentions, saying, “This being Easter season, we aim to share happiness with the children of Namutamba Rehabilitation Center.” She emphasized that they had successfully mobilized funds and a wide array of essential items, including mattresses, blankets, bed sheets, clothing, wheelchairs, and food staples such as posho, rice, and sugar. The goal was clear – to ensure that Easter becomes a season of joy for the children at the center.
Since its inception in 2018, Forester Nation has conducted numerous charity runs, not only in Uganda but also in Kenya, aimed at identifying and assisting individuals in need within their communities. Their choice to support Namutamba Rehabilitation Center was driven by the center’s remote location, situated 88 kilometers from Kampala, making it challenging for donors to reach. Mbabazi explained, “We identified Namutamba Rehabilitation Center (NRC) because there is a great need, and our support can truly make a difference.”
Namutamba Rehabilitation Center (NRC), established in 1994 under the Church of Uganda with support from Neukirchener Mission Germany, focuses on providing essential services to children and individuals with disabilities aged zero to 25. The center specializes in medical rehabilitation and offers therapeutic gear tailored to the needs of children with disabilities.
Rogers Asiimwe, Vice President of Forester Nation Uganda, revealed that over 300 Subaru drivers from both Kenya and Uganda enthusiastically participated in the charity run, all with the shared goal of bringing joy and love to the children during Easter.
Slim K. Roberts, President of Forester Nation Kenya, commended the warm reception they received from Ugandans, stating, “As Kenyans, we are now feeling the joy of the East African Community. With over 50 Subaru drivers from Kenya, we urge all drivers to conduct themselves responsibly and help improve the public perception of Subaru drivers, which is often marred by stereotypes of recklessness.”
The East African Charity Run for Namutamba Rehabilitation Center exemplifies the power of collaboration and compassion. Subaru drivers from different countries united to make a significant impact in the lives of children with special needs, bringing hope and happiness to their Easter season.
Forester Nation’s dedication to philanthropy continues to inspire, reaffirming the belief that communities can thrive when individuals come together with a shared purpose.