By John Kusolo
In a vibrant send-off ceremony held at Parliament yesterday morning, the Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, alongside her Deputy, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, flagged off a team of Members of Parliament set to represent Uganda at the 14th East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games. Scheduled to take place from December 6 to December 18, 2024, in Mombasa, Kenya, the games are a key platform for fostering regional unity and camaraderie among legislative bodies of the EAC member states.
The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Sports Club, Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, expressed confidence in Team Uganda's preparedness to defend their title. "We are ready to make Uganda proud once again," he remarked, emphasizing the team's dedication and rigorous training. The State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, praised Parliament's unwavering support for sports development in Uganda. "No wonder trophies are coming in from various parts of the country," he added, highlighting the positive impact of legislative support on national sports performance.
*Kenya's Comprehensive Preparations*
In Kenya, the host country has finalized preparations to ensure the 14th edition of the EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games is an unforgettable experience. Kenya's Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary, Davis Chirchir, declared Mombasa ready to host the games, which will be held at the Mbaraki Sports Complex and Makande Social Hall. "We are poised to organize the best-ever EAC inter-parliamentary games, showcasing Mombasa as a beacon of sports development," Chirchir stated.
The sporting event will feature a wide range of activities, including football, golf, athletics, netball, volleyball, basketball, tug of war, and darts for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Participating teams include legislators from Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), and host Kenya, with additional confirmations expected.
*Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth*
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir assured participants of a secure, hospitable environment, with top-notch accommodation and logistical support. He emphasized that the games would not only strengthen regional integration but also provide significant economic benefits to the residents and businesses of Mombasa. "By hosting these games, Mombasa is reaffirming its commitment to the East African Federation and showcasing its renowned tour, travel, and hospitality industries," Nassir noted.
The governor added that the event would be a platform to market Mombasa as a premier tourist destination, offering participants a glimpse of the city’s rich culture and scenic beauty.
*Economic and Infrastructural Advancements*
In preparation for the games, significant upgrades have been made to sports facilities, accommodation, and logistical arrangements in Mombasa. "Every necessary facility is being put in place to ensure a seamless and memorable event," Chirchir emphasized. These developments include enhanced security measures, modernized infrastructure at the Mbaraki Sports Complex and Makande Social Hall, and comprehensive logistical plans for participants and spectators.
Kenyan legislators, led by Jomvu MP Badi Twalib, have expressed confidence in their ability to excel during the games. Twalib called on Kenyans to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and unity that the regional event symbolizes.
*Strengthening Regional Unity through Sports*
The EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games are a crucial aspect of the East African Community's mission to promote regional cooperation and integration. With eight member states—Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda—the games serve as a unifying force, fostering understanding and collaboration among legislators.
As Team Uganda departs for Mombasa, the spirit of camaraderie and determination shines brightly. The team's participation underscores Uganda’s commitment to regional integration and its passion for sports as a tool for unity and development.
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