The St Mary’s College Kisubi Old Boys Association (SMACKOBA) has announced that Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, will be the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achiever Award.
The honour will be formally presented during the Association’s annual awards dinner, an event that brings together generations of Old Boys to celebrate excellence, service, and the values that define St Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK).
The Distinguished Alumni Achiever Award is one of SMACKOBA’s highest recognitions, reserved for former students who have excelled in their professional careers and made outstanding contributions to national development.
SMACKOBA President Nyamutale Roy Baguma confirmed the selection of Gen Kainerugaba, noting that the CDF’s leadership record and long-standing commitment to the alumni community made him a deserving honouree.
He said Gen Kainerugaba’s achievements reflect the values and discipline instilled by St Mary’s College Kisubi, one of Uganda’s oldest and most respected boys’ schools.
“We acknowledge old boys who have made a significant impact in their fields and in society. Gen Kainerugaba has distinguished himself in national service and has always taken interest in the activities of SMACKOBA,” Baguma said.
He explained that the Association is committed to promoting professional networking, mentorship, career development, community service, and the continued advancement of the college that shaped them.
He noted that Gen Kainerugaba has consistently demonstrated support for the school and the Old Boys fraternity, making him an example to younger alumni and students.
SMACKOBA confirmed that Gen Kainerugaba contributed 20 million shillings toward the organisation of the awards dinner.
The Association described the contribution as evidence of the CDF’s enduring commitment to giving back to the institution that played a key role in his early formation.
Baguma added that part of the proceeds from this year’s dinner will go toward supporting an eye medical camp in Northern Uganda, scheduled for February 2026.
He said the initiative is part of SMACKOBA’s wider community service agenda, designed to extend social impact far beyond the school gates.
The announcement was made in the presence of SMACKOBA Treasurer Anthony Kibirige and the Association’s Deputy Secretary General, Colonel Dr John Lusiba.
The two officials also highlighted Gen Kainerugaba’s strong relationship with the Brothers of Christian Instruction, the Catholic religious order that founded St Mary’s College Kisubi in 1906.
They noted that the Brothers have moulded generations of leaders—often working under financial and material limitations—and that Gen Kainerugaba has been among the former students who consistently step in to support their mission.
Col Chris Magezi delivered the CDF’s contribution on his behalf and spoke about Gen Kainerugaba’s personal attachment to his former school.
“Despite his busy schedule, he always finds time to respond to SMACKOBA’s concerns. His consistent support speaks for itself,” he said.
He praised the unity and commitment displayed by the Old Boys Association, noting that their collective responsibility strengthens the school’s heritage and future.
“These schools made us and nurtured us. When we grow and succeed in life, the hope is that we give back,” he said.
SMACKOBA stated that this year’s ceremony aims to celebrate the spirit of excellence that defines St Mary’s College Kisubi, recognise accomplished alumni, and inspire younger Old Boys to follow in the footsteps of those who have excelled.
The Association added that the awards dinner reinforces a century-long tradition of giving back, mentorship, and solidarity that has shaped the SMACK community for more than 118 years.
