Seth Murari Mbarara City Mayoral Race brings hope , as he kicks off with talent development

In a powerful demonstration of leadership through action, Seth Murari, a respected entrepreneur and advocate for development and environmental sustainability, is using the universal language of football to bridge divides and foster unity among Mbarara City’s informal sector workers.

This Saturday, May 3, 2025, the Global High School playgrounds will host a unique event a friendly football match between the Mbarara Taxi Operators and the Garage Operators Association.

Officiated by Murari himself, the game symbolizes more than just sport. It marks the beginning of a people-centered movement aimed at rebuilding trust, dignity, and collaboration among everyday citizens.

“Before we talk politics, let’s talk people,” Murari said ahead of the match. “This game is about togetherness. These men and women fix our cars, drive us daily, and keep this city alive. It’s time leadership came to them not the other way around.”

Murari’s approach is grounded in the belief that sports can act as a catalyst for urban transformation, social cohesion, and economic opportunity.

With years of experience working on youth empowerment and environmental conservation projects, he is now channeling that momentum into his mayoral aspirations, guided by the slogan “Taking Action, Achieving Results.”

“Sports can reduce crime, bridge ethnic and economic divides, and offer our young people a path to greatness. My desire is to lead from the front and invest in community sports infrastructure, revive neighborhood tournaments, and work to make Mbarara a regional hub for sports and youth innovation,” he added.

His plan for Mbarara City includes bold reforms such as inclusive urban planning, job creation through innovation, empowerment of the informal sector, and modern, safe public spaces. But at the heart of it all is a deep commitment to community-driven change starting with football.

Murari envisions sports as a transformative force for Mbarara City, citing its potential to address key urban challenges.

By building or refurbishing sports grounds in every division, he plans to create multipurpose venues for culture, youth programs, and community gatherings, thereby fostering infrastructure and safe spaces.

This investment also feeds into urban identity and branding, as he noted, “Cities like Arua, Gulu, and Masaka are gaining visibility through local football clubs,” expressing his ambition for Mbarara to become a Western Uganda sports powerhouse.

Hosting sports events will further spur economic growth and local enterprise, empowering small businesses like food vendors, boda boda riders, and artisans through increased community activity.

Murari also emphasizes the health and public wellbeing benefits of sports and accessible public parks, which improve physical and mental health while easing pressure on healthcare systems.

At the core of his vision is youth engagement and crime prevention, grounded in his belief that “A football ground can do what a prison cell can’t it inspires. Let’s invest in prevention, not just punishment.”

Beyond policies and promises, Murari is demonstrating that unity begins with shared experiences. The football match serves as a living manifesto – a declaration that community comes first.

“This event is not about one man. It’s about building a city that works for all of us. The match is just the beginning. Let’s kick off a new era for Mbarara—together,” he urged.

As residents gear up for Saturday’s match, many view it as a rare and refreshing gesture a leader showing up where the people are, not just empowering them through sports, but offering vision, commitment, and most importantly, hope.