Uganda’s political stage is once again witnessing the rise of a new contender from the world of boxing and faith. Dr. Henry Byamukama Katabazi, a renowned Pentecostal pastor, gospel artist, author, philanthropist, and boxing manager, has officially declared his intentions to contest for the presidency in the 2026 general elections.

Born on June 15, 1975, in Kampala, Dr. Katabazi is the lead pastor of Breakthrough Life Church and FaithLife Fellowship, a global minister who has spent more than 20 years raising leaders, planting churches, and supporting communities across Uganda and abroad. Beyond the pulpit, he has invested heavily in local businesses, creating employment opportunities for Ugandans.

From the Ring to the Ballot

Interestingly, Katabazi’s journey intertwines with the boxing world. He is currently managing two professional Ugandan fighters:

• Joshua Tusingwire a.k.a. “Kalalankoma” – ranked No. 2 in Uganda’s Super Featherweight division and 237 worldwide, with a record of 8 fights, 7 wins, 1 loss. He is scheduled to face Muhindo Vianney Bahati on September 25, 2025 at Supremacy Lounge, Nankulabye, Kampala.
• Ivan Kambagire – another rising talent under his guidance.

By aligning with boxing, Katabazi joins a growing list of Ugandan leaders and aspirants who have found political inspiration in the sport’s discipline, grit, and public appeal.

A Manifesto Built on Six Pillars

Dr. Katabazi’s political blueprint rests on six key pillars that he believes can transform Uganda into a competitive middle-income country:

1. Education – ensuring quality education for every child and tackling Uganda’s high school dropout rates.
2. Poverty Alleviation – empowering families to rise from extreme poverty through equitable growth.
3. Economic Growth – diversifying the economy to achieve Uganda Vision 2040.
4. Youth Empowerment – positioning young people as innovators, wealth creators, and civic leaders.
5. Financial Inclusion – providing every citizen with secure tools to save, borrow, and invest.
6. Infrastructure Development – laying strong foundations for national growth.

Faith, Music, and Leadership

Apart from his pastoral and political work, Dr. Katabazi is also a performing gospel artist, releasing his first album “Jambo” in 2017. He is the author of “Living the Life of Faith” and a respected international speaker. His deep involvement in both spiritual and social spheres underscores his reputation as a leader who blends faith with action.

Uganda’s New Boxing-Linked Aspirant

While other Ugandan boxing greats have inspired the nation through their achievements in the ring, Dr. Katabazi brings a unique blend of faith, leadership, philanthropy, and sports to the political table. His move marks him as another boxing hero stepping into the presidential race, aiming to fight not in the ring, but for the future of Uganda.