By Joshua Niyonshima
Uganda Revenue Authority has donated braille bibles worth Ugx 5 million to visually impaired persons.
The donation was made during the fourth edition of the Kampala Homecoming (the biggest choral music concert) that happened at the Mestil Hotel on Saturday. The event aimed to raise funds to provide 200 Braille Bibles for the visually impaired.
Representing the Commissioner General, URA’s Ag. Assistant Commissioner for Public and Corporate Affairs Robert Kalumba said the event aligns with the ongoing taxpayer appreciation season that aims to appreciate taxpayers for their contribution to Uganda’s development.
“An element in the taxpayer appreciation season is giving back to the communities in which we work and live. Noble CSRs like this one add a different and positive outlook to URA,” he said.
Kalumba affirmed URA’s continued support for such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of empowering all Ugandans, including those with disabilities, to access the word of God.
The Kampala Homecoming is an annual event organized by Rubiita Ministries in collaboration with the Bible Society of Uganda. This year’s event was a vibrant showcase of gospel music and philanthropy attracting over 20 choirs.
The night began with a moving performance of the popular gospel song Tewalibude Yesu by the Heralds Choir, followed by stirring instrumental and vocal renditions from Bliss Music Uganda, including the uplifting song Akapeera. Various choirs graced the stage throughout the evening, filling the air with spirited hymns that resonated with attendees of all ages.
The energetic performances were a highlight, with the crowd in full support, especially during the Keziron Family Choir’s rendition of Kabaka Waffe Jangu Tukusute, which sparked a wave of cheers and applause. The audience, adorned in vibrant red and black, embraced the music with enthusiasm and joy.
Internationally, the event was graced by the Shofar Choir from Nairobi, Kenya who brought Kiswahili songs to life. One of the key moments of the evening came when Nakimera, the Church Relations Officer for the Bible Society of Uganda, shared a sobering statistic:
“Uganda is home to over 2.6 million visually impaired people, many of whom face significant challenges in accessing the gospel.
Nakimera explained how the Bible Society initially focused on creating storybooks for the visually impaired and later expanded its efforts to produce complete Braille Bibles in English, Luganda, and Runyankole/Rukiga. The organization is now working to translate the Braille Bible into other Ugandan languages to reach even more people.
Fiona Komujuni, a Senior Four “vacist” and visually impaired young woman, also took to the stage to share her journey of discovering the gospel through the Braille Bible. With courage and grace, Fiona explained how she lost her sight at a young age due to an infection, but was taken in by a kind-hearted individual who helped her access education.
Fiona’s story resonated with the audience as she recited scripture in both Runyankole and English, inspiring many with her faith and perseverance.
In a symbolic gesture of support, Kalumba donated a Braille Bible to Fiona, acknowledging her resilience and dedication to the gospel. He encouraged the audience to emulate Fiona’s faith and commitment to God, challenging them to reflect on their spiritual journeys.
The success of this year’s event, marked by a spirit of unity and compassion, is expected to bring Uganda closer to a future where the word of God is accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical limitations.
