Hajj Karim Kaliisa, the Managing Director of Salam TV and Salam Charity, has been awarded the Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of his distinguished service and loyalty to Uganda.
The medal was presented on Friday, May 1, 2026, during the International Labour Day celebrations held at Nkoyoyo Primary Boarding School in Buikwe District. The ceremony was presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Conferred under the National Honours and Awards Act, the award recognises Kaliisa’s longstanding contribution to community service, a journey that traces back to his student years.
During his time as a student, Kaliisa played a key role in mobilising peers to establish the Muslim Students Association of Uganda, which has since become a significant platform for Muslim learners across educational institutions.
He later served as Vice Guild President at Makerere University and as a member of the university’s governing council.
His service extended beyond Uganda, where he worked as coordinator and administrator for the Union of Muslim Councils for East Central and Southern Africa, overseeing operations across 29 countries from its Kampala headquarters.
In the media sector, Kaliisa is a founding member of several platforms, including Voice of Africa Radio, Pearl of Africa Radio, and Salam TV, institutions credited with expanding Muslim representation and promoting dialogue within Uganda’s media space.
He is also the founder of Salam Charity, a non-governmental organisation that delivers humanitarian support through education and Islamic centres across the country.
Through Salam Charity and Salam TV, he has championed initiatives such as the Smart Community Program, aimed at improving livelihoods through integrated social, economic, educational, and health interventions.
Officials cited his consistent record of leadership, service, and innovation as the basis for the honour. The Diamond Jubilee Medal is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service and demonstrated loyalty to Uganda.
President Museveni confirmed the award during the Labour Day event, commending Kaliisa for his contribution to national development.