Uganda’s celebrated kickboxing icon Moses Golola has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the ForteBet Real Star Monthly Sports Awards for April.
The recognition not only celebrates his illustrious career but also underscores his role in elevating kickboxing to national prominence.
Golola, widely regarded as the face of Ugandan kickboxing, received the prestigious accolade on Tuesday morning for his longstanding contribution to the sport and his influence in turning it into a household discipline.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2011, Golola has delivered memorable performances in the ring, having faced and defeated several high-profile opponents including Umar Ssemata, Andreas Naggy and Titus Tugume.
In his trademark passionate style, the 44-year-old used the platform to urge the Ugandan Government to take sports more seriously and extend greater recognition to athletes who carry the national flag on international stages.
“It’s frustrating that athletes are still underappreciated despite the sacrifices they make.” He said
“While political representatives are rewarded handsomely for serving smaller constituencies, we speak for Uganda on global platforms and yet often go unnoticed.”
He also called for increased youth empowerment through sports, noting that while young people are encouraged to pursue their talents, a lack of institutional support makes it difficult for them to earn a livelihood from their abilities.
Also recognized at the April edition of the Real Star Awards were James Bogere (football), Lydia Namabiro (rugby), and Eunice Awori (kabaddi), all of whom were honoured for their outstanding performances in their respective disciplines.