By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Eleven cyclists including one female rider, Loise Agassi, under the Pearl Riders team on Sunday completed a 314-kilometre Race for Equality, ending a three-day journey that started from Nakivale Refugee Settlement.
The initiative, organised by Brass for Africa under the theme “We Are One,” is aimed at raising awareness and mobilising support for marginalised communities.
Unlike a routine endurance ride, the campaign focused on amplifying the voices of vulnerable groups, with organisers stressing the need for inclusive opportunities in education and skills development.
Brass for Africa chief executive officer Agassi Andrew said the programme is targeting over 2,700 beneficiaries through music-based interventions.
“Our approach is to use music as a pathway to equip young people with education, leadership and teamwork skills, alongside access to instruments and training,” he said.
He noted that the campaign goes beyond awareness, combining sensitisation, fundraising and long-term skills development to create lasting impact in underserved communities.
Jim Trott MBE, founder of Brass for Africa, said inclusion has been central to the organisation since its establishment in 2009.
Member of the Order of the British Empire – MBE, is a UK honour awarded for outstanding service to the community or local/regional achievement. It is the third-highest ranking Order of the British Empire award
“The cause is hugely important. It is vital that we include everyone in everything we do, and that has been at the heart of Brass for Africa from the very beginning,” he said.
He noted that the organisation is currently supporting more than 1,200 refugees, over 1,000 girls and nearly 300 persons with disabilities through its music programmes.
“Music is a powerful tool. When young people start playing together, it becomes something they want to pursue and improve at. That gives us a pathway to engage them and work with their communities to improve their lives,” he said.
Trott, who is also the UK trustee of the organization, described the 300-plus kilometre Pearl Riders journey across Uganda as both physically demanding and meaningful.
“It has been a challenge, especially with the terrain and altitude, but every kilometre has been worth it. It has strengthened our message that we are one and that inclusion matters,” he added.
Participants described the ride from Nakivale to Kampala as physically demanding but purposeful.
“The journey was not easy, but it carries a bigger meaning. We are riding to ensure no one is left behind,” said rider Loise Agassi.
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, saying it is already transforming lives through mentorship and empowerment.
Tadeo Kamukama, who has been part of the programme since 2009, said the support has enabled him to pursue music despite physical limitations.
“Even without hands, I can play the trombone. This programme has given me confidence and a sense of direction,” Kamukama said.
Organisers said the campaign will be scaled up to reach more refugee settlements and underserved areas, with plans to increase access to musical instruments, training and partnerships to sustain the growing number of beneficiaries.
