Veteran kickboxer Moses Golola has called on the government and development partners to prioritize sports initiatives to nurture talent and promote sustainable development.
Golola made the appeal while receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award during the Fortebet Real Stars Awards held today in Lugogo.
Regarded as one of Uganda’s most influential sports figures for his contributions to the growth of kickboxing, Golola is widely celebrated for his flamboyant sportsmanship and humorous personality, which have captivated fans and helped popularize the sport across the country.
Despite his achievements, Golola believes there is still untapped potential that requires more support from stakeholders.
“Without support for sport, we are destroying the young generation. They are supposed to use their talents to develop,” Golola said.
“Uganda has over 50 sports disciplines, but few athletes can represent the country because they lack training facilities. I call upon the government to prioritize sports development ideas like academies to raise talent,” he added.
At the same event, Uganda U17 national football team forward James Bogere, who played a key role in the team’s historic qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup, was awarded the football accolade. Lady Rugby Cranes winger Lydia Nambiro took home the rugby gong, while Eunice Awori was voted best Kabaddi player.
The Fortebet Real Stars Monthly Awards are organized to recognize and reward outstanding sports personalities across various disciplines.