The highly anticipated 14th edition of the East African Local Authorities Sports and Cultural Association (EALASCA) Games officially kicked off at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo on Tuesday.
The event brought together five East African nations, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and Rwanda, in a celebration of both athleticism and culture, with a focus on unity and collaboration within the region.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki: “EALASCA Games Are More Than Just Sport”
At the opening ceremony, Sharifah Buzeki, the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), took the stage to highlight the deeper significance of the games.
“We are not here just to compete in sporting events, but to stand together as East Africans,” she said. “The EALASCA Games are a symbol of the shared aspirations and potential of our region.”
According to Buzeki, the games offer much more than the thrill of competition. They represent a unique platform for regional cooperation, cultural exchange, and the strengthening of brotherhood between East African cities and municipalities.
“These games are about building relationships that go beyond sports, fostering unity, and showcasing the diversity of our cultures,” she emphasized.
A Day of Excitement and Victory
The first day of competition saw Uganda take on Kenya in both football and tug of war. While the host nation showed great effort, Kenya emerged victorious, winning both tug of war battles (men’s and women’s) and securing a 3-1 football victory over Uganda.
Despite the competitive nature of the games, Buzeki was quick to remind everyone that EALASCA is not a battle of nations, but a collective celebration of all the countries involved.
“This is not an Uganda versus Kenya affair,” she said. “It’s about East Africa coming together, celebrating each other’s strengths, and building a future of collaboration.”
The Bigger Picture: Sports and Culture as Tools for Unity
The EALASCA Games are a reflection of the vision to unite East Africa through both sports and culture. With a variety of outdoor and indoor sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, athletics, chess, and scrabble, the event showcases not only the athletic talents of the region’s best players but also the vibrant cultural heritage of East Africa.
In addition to the competitions, cultural performances and exchanges will take place, offering participants and spectators an opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of the region.
As Buzeki noted, “Through these games, we are learning from one another and deepening the connections between our communities.”
Looking Ahead: More Action to Come
The excitement continues on Wednesday, as more matches and competitions unfold across a variety of sports. Football, netball, volleyball, basketball, darts, pool table, and chess are just a few of the events to look forward to as the games progress.
For the next few days, fans can expect a mix of fierce competition and regional camaraderie, where the true spirit of the EALASCA Games will shine. It’s not just about winning; it’s about embracing the shared vision of a united East Africa.
A Call for Continued Unity
The EALASCA Games serve as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and mutual respect among the nations of East Africa. As Buzeki concluded, “These games are not just about sport, they are about creating lasting bonds, sharing cultures, and fostering a spirit of unity that will help us tackle the challenges of the future together.”
The 14th edition of EALASCA is shaping up to be a historic one, not only for the incredible sporting action but also for the sense of community and shared purpose it continues to inspire.
