Key stakeholders on Thursday morning previewed the upcoming World Basketball Day celebrations in Busia, set for Monday, December 9.
The event will focus on youth development and mental health, with support from the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA), the iCARRe Foundation, WoMena Uganda, and the Ashoka Foundation.
The celebrations will feature a significant boost from the FIBA Foundation, which has contributed $2,000, 150 basketballs, and jerseys to support the initiative.
During the pre-event press conference, FUBA Youth Commissioner Patricia Ayebare highlighted the program’s aim to address pressing issues such as menstrual hygiene management, safe sport practices, and mental health awareness among youth participants.
“We are excited to leverage the power of basketball to not only promote physical activity but also address critical social and emotional needs within the community,” Ayebare stated.
Dr. Irene Mutumba, founder of the Partnership for Education and Development in Northern Uganda (PEDN) and an Ashoka Fellow, emphasized the importance of educational reform in empowering young people.
Drawing from over 20 years of experience, Dr. Mutumba stressed the need for a nationwide movement to transform all school levels and create sustainable change through targeted financial support.
Allen Namiya, representing the iCARRe Basketball Foundation, highlighted the role of sports in addressing mental health challenges.
“Through basketball, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment where children can open up, express themselves, and prioritize their mental well-being,” Namiya noted.
