International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Dr. Thomas Bach has encouraged Uganda to expand its leadership in the sports movement, drawing parallels with the country’s influential roles in regional politics and economic development.
Dr. Bach made these remarks during a meeting with Uganda’s Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, at her office on October 23, 2024, as part of his two-day farewell visit to the country.
“In the Olympic movement, you will find open hearts, open minds, and open doors. We want to support you as you take leadership in the region when it comes to sports,” Dr. Bach said.
He highlighted the potential for sports to act as a unifying force, even in the face of geopolitical tensions, citing the recent Paris Olympics as an example.
“In the Paris Olympics, despite the geopolitical tensions between some countries, we were able to unite people,” he added.
Dr. Bach also spoke highly of Uganda’s sporting potential, noting that the country should prepare itself to harness the wealth of talent it possesses.
“Uganda should brace itself for the amount of talent this country possesses,” the IOC president remarked.
Bach’s call for Uganda to lead in sports aligns with the country’s growing influence in regional politics and security.
Uganda has taken significant leadership roles in stabilizing the region, notably through peacekeeping missions and support for neighboring nations.
For instance, Uganda has deployed troops to Somalia under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to combat insurgent groups, contributing to regional peace and security.
Similarly, in South Sudan, Uganda has played a crucial role in peace negotiations and military support aimed at restoring order in the war-torn country.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda’s intervention in the fight against rebel groups has been pivotal in enhancing security and stabilizing the eastern regions of the country.
Dr. Bach emphasized that sports could be a similar avenue for Uganda to exert influence and leadership within East Africa and beyond.
By building on its already impressive track record in athletics, Uganda has the potential to inspire and support other nations in developing their sports programs.
The IOC President’s remarks come at a time when Uganda is experiencing a resurgence in global sports, notably with Olympic athletes like Joshua Cheptegei and Peruth Chemutai gaining international acclaim.
Dr. Bach’s visit continues with meetings with other government officials, as well as a tour of the Game Connect Project, an initiative focused on integrating refugees into sports through the Olympic Refugee Foundation.
