As the first-ever National Sports Symposium gears up to open on June 17 at Next Media Park in Naguru, two of Uganda’s biggest sporting legends—Joshua Cheptegei and Moses Kipsiro—are calling out the government for turning its back on athletics, the country’s most decorated international sport.
Organized by NBS Sport, the two-day event promises to unite key voices across Uganda’s sporting world.
It will be aired live on NBS Sport and Afromobile, shining a spotlight on the direction of sports development in the country. But as the countdown begins, the frustration of Uganda’s athletics heroes has taken center stage.
“We deliver results, win medals, and raise Uganda’s flag on global stages,” said Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei. “But we need to re-think things as a country. Let’s focus on what gives us visibility and pride.”
Cheptegei, who holds multiple world records, says it’s baffling how athletics keeps bringing Uganda global success, yet continues to be sidelined in terms of recognition and funding. His concern is echoed by Moses Kipsiro, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, who says Uganda’s struggles on the world stage aren’t due to lack of talent—but poor systems.
“We celebrated Akii-Bua’s gold in 1972, but by then other countries like Kenya and Ethiopia were already miles ahead,” said Kipsiro. “If our systems were stable and well-structured, we could’ve matched their progress. Instead, we’re still lagging.”
Both athletes are urging the government to prioritize grassroots investment and school sports, especially in rural areas, to help grow future stars. They believe long-term partnerships between sports and education sectors are vital for Uganda to maintain its competitive edge.
Athletics and boxing have historically carried Uganda’s medal hopes, yet both remain underfunded and poorly organized. That failure to support proven disciplines is expected to be one of the hottest issues when the symposium kicks off.
With all eyes on the upcoming discussions, Uganda’s sports legends hope this isn’t just another talk show—but the start of real change.
