MBALE CITY – Behind every child battling a neurological disorder is a family praying for a miracle. That miracle may come through the generosity of ordinary people after Mbale City Mayor Joyce Matuka Kidulu officially launched the third edition of the “Laugh With Her” Charity Fundraising Campaign, an initiative aimed at raising funds for life-saving brain surgeries for vulnerable children.
The campaign is targeting over Shs100 million for this year’s cure run edition as part of a broader Shs1 billion fundraising drive to support children receiving specialised treatment at CURE Children’s Hospital of Uganda, a Christian-based facility renowned for paediatric neurosurgery and the treatment of conditions such as hydrocephalus, spina bifida, brain tumours and neural tube defects.
The highly anticipated charity event will take place on 8th Oct, 2026, at Mt. Elgon Hotel in Mbale City, bringing together leaders, business communities, philanthropists and well-wishers in a united effort to give children a second chance at life.
Speaking during a press conference at Mt. Elgon Hotel, Mayor Kidulu hailed the vision and dedication of Angelina Chogo Wapakhabulo, the founder of the initiative, for creating a platform that enables communities to directly impact the lives of children in need.
“We cannot keep wondering where the money will come from to support these children. We must mobilise ourselves and stand together for this noble cause,” Kidulu said.
In a show of commitment, the Mayor pledged a Shs1 million table on behalf of Mbale City Council and an additional Shs 500,000 contribution from her family, while urging individuals, institutions and businesses to support the campaign.
The fundraiser was initiated by Angelina Chogo Wapakhabulo, ambassador of CURE Children’s Hospital and former Uganda High Commissioner to Kenya. She recalled that although the first edition was successfully held in Kampala, many people felt the event belonged in Mbale, leading to its return to eastern Uganda.
“The first edition was successful, but people kept asking why it was being held in Kampala. We brought it back to Mbale and agreed that ‘Laugh With Her’ belongs here. Today, we are proud to be back home,” Angelina said.
She called upon residents of Mbale, neighbouring districts and the corporate sector to embrace the cause and contribute towards treatment for children whose families are unable to afford specialised medical care.
Also speaking at the launch, Pr. Fred Wangwa, Director of Spiritual Ministry at CURE Children’s Hospital, emphasized that the institution continues to witness many children suffering from neurological conditions whose families struggle to meet treatment costs.
“We invite everyone to join us on 8th October as we seek to raise Shs1 billion. You may not have a child facing such a condition, but you can thank God by helping another child who does,” Wangwa said.
The charity concert will feature performances from celebrated artists including Azawi, legendary Maddox Ssematimba, Pablo, Idd Masaba, Mukhoso, MC Izak King & MC Ibra Musosi among others, combining entertainment with a life-changing humanitarian mission.