2025 a Defining Year for Uganda, Says Commonwealth Sports Don
By Kayiira Jackson
The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) and Commonwealth Games Uganda (CGU) have hailed 2025 as one of their most successful and active years, marked by strong athlete performances, institutional growth and rising international recognition.
Addressing journalists last week at the UOC/CGU headquarters in Lugogo, President Dr Donald Rukare described the year as “remarkable,” crediting athletes, coaches, officials and partners for their dedication and resilience.
“2025 was an action-packed and remarkable year for our organisation,” Dr Rukare said before the total Internet shutdown, noting that Team Uganda featured prominently at major international competitions including the inaugural African School Games in Algeria, the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, and the Africa Youth Games in Angola.
According to Rukare, participation in these events offered invaluable exposure and competitive experience, particularly for young athletes, strengthening Uganda’s long-term talent pipeline.
Off the field of play, UOC commissions remained highly active, driving athlete development, governance reforms and youth participation initiatives. These efforts earned Uganda continental recognition when the UOC received the ANOCA Sustainability Award, underscoring the country’s commitment to good governance and sustainable sports development.
The year also brought a significant boost to elite athlete development, with seven Ugandan athletes and one team earning Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Scholarships and support grants. The beneficiaries include cyclists Charles Kagimu, weightlifter Davis Niyoyita, badminton players Husina Kobugabe and Fadilah Rafi, athletes Knight Aciru, Harold Adoli and Tarsis Orogot, as well as the national Basketball 3×3 women’s team.
“These scholarships demonstrate confidence in Uganda’s rising talent and reaffirm our long-term commitment to athlete welfare and high-performance sport,” The recently voted Commonwealth Sports President said.
Looking ahead, the UOC and CGU have set ambitious priorities for the coming year, including hosting the UOC Annual General Meeting in March, conducting a mid-term review of the strategic plan, keeping commissions active, final preparations for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, securing land for a permanent UOC headquarters, and strengthening early preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
“In 2026, we remain committed to preparing our athletes for major competitions, fostering unity, and promoting the transformative power of sport across Uganda,” Dr Rukare added.