The Deputy Speaker of Uganda, Thomas Tayebwa, has emphasized the pivotal role of sports in advancing the East African Community (EAC) integration process.
Speaking at the 14th EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games, Tayebwa highlighted how sports foster camaraderie and collaboration among Members of Parliament (MPs) from the eight partner states.
He noted that these interactions are crucial for creating laws that drive regional integration.
“Sports bring us closer as representatives of the people. Many MPs in the region don’t know each other, yet they’re tasked with passing key laws for integration. This interaction strengthens our bonds at a legislative level,” Tayebwa remarked.
As he prepared to lead Team Uganda in the golf tournament at Nyali Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, 10 December 2024, Tayebwa expressed satisfaction with President William Ruto’s participation in the games’ opening ceremony.
He viewed it as a testament to leadership commitment to the EAC agenda.
“I hope the executives will continue supporting this initiative. It signifies a commitment to the integration process, and we, as representatives, will continue to market and address the challenges faced by member states while strengthening parliamentary democracy,” he said.
The Health Benefits of Sport
Tayebwa also stressed the health benefits of sports, noting that MPs’ preparation for the games involved months of physical activity.
“We are helping many members avoid non-communicable diseases through regular exercise. This is a vital benefit of these games,” he said.
Team Uganda Shines
Tayebwa praised Team Uganda for its strong performance, expressing confidence in retaining the overall championship title won in Kigali, Rwanda.
“I expect Uganda to win key prizes in golf and dominate the games overall,” he asserted.
Uganda’s Performance So Far:
Football: Uganda defeated Kenya 3-1; Tanzania and Burundi drew 1-1.
Basketball: Uganda’s men’s team triumphed over Burundi 50-36, while the women’s team crushed Kenya 66-13.
Netball: Uganda’s women beat Kenya 3-1, while the men’s team lost to Kenya by the same margin.
Track and Field: Uganda clinched first place in the 100M races (men and women) and the 1500M for men, while finishing second in the women’s 1500M.
The 14th EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games, which began on 6 December, will conclude on 18 December 2024.
Tayebwa remains optimistic about Uganda’s chances of retaining the championship.
