Henry Kalungi’s heartwarming Christmas gesture spreads joy to Kampala’s slum children

For over eight years, former Uganda Cranes defender Henry Kalungi has continued his annual tradition of spreading holiday cheer, hosting a Christmas and New Year luncheon for underprivileged children residing in Kampala’s slums of Katanga, Kivulu, Kiwunya, and Kamwokya.

Through his Kalungi Foundation, Kalungi, along with his family and friends from North Carolina, hosted over 1,250 slum children to a luncheon at Buganda Road Primary School Playground on January 2, 2026.

Each child smiled home with gifts, including clothes, soccer and non-soccer boots, balls, and playing jerseys.

“I’m not the wealthiest former footballer in Uganda, and I’m not targeting profits from this program, but giving to the community that picked me up when I was undeserving is a noble calling,” Kalungi said.

“Our aim is to give hope and shape the future for these unprivileged children. Sometime back, different people gave us a hand to become who we are.

Our path was through football, and it has become a principle to give back through football using the resources and connections God has blessed us with.”

Retiring from active football in 2018 following an ACL injury, Kalungi embarked on a coaching journey, establishing the Alpha Soccer Academy in Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA.

He last played for Uganda Cranes in 2014 during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match against Madagascar.

Kalungi was named team captain for the Cranes that won the CECAFA Challenge Cup in 2012 hosted in Uganda.

“Giving back is a responsibility for everyone as a way to inspire and promote unprivileged communities and tap into raw talent, and definitely, it is the best way to make our country a better place to live,” Kalungi emphasized.

“I call upon all my fellow former players that God has blessed with basic standards of life to do the same in different communities, and Uganda will be a better place.” He added.

Kalungi was joined by former Uganda Cranes left fullback Godfrey Walusimbi and UPPC Entebbe FC head coach Abdallah Mubiru during the event.

“Henry Kalungi’s selfless giving to our community is a beacon of hope.

His heart for the needy is rare and truly worth celebrating.

Not defined by wealth, but by the sacrifice he makes, Kalungi embodies the true spirit of generosity,” Abdallah Mubiru remarked.

Meanwhile, Godfrey Walusimbi hailed Kalungi for the gesture and said, “A noble gesture by a true legend! Kalungi’s benevolence ignites hope, transcending his playing days.

His selfless act speaks volumes of his character, both on and off the pitch,” Godfrey Walusimbi hailed.