EAC-Parliamentary Games: Uganda Parliament Tug of War team undergoes ‘military-style’ training ahead of Arusha Games
By Kayiira Jackson
Uganda Parliament’s Tug of War team has intensified preparations for the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games scheduled to take place in Arusha, Tanzania, from December 4 to 16, 2026.
The team, which trains at Lugogo Sports Complex in Kampala, has completed its third week of training as it seeks to defend the men’s title won during the previous edition hosted by Uganda.
Second assistant captain and Mukono North Member of Parliament Abdallah Kiwanuka Mulimamayuuni described the sessions as demanding, comparing the physical exercises to military training.
“We’re in for training and recruiting all those who feel they are better at participating in this sport,” Kiwanuka said after a training session.
“It’s tough training, close to that of the military, because we strengthen our thighs and backs, and we have to test the strength in our hands. Those who come here with unnecessary weight end up losing it.
“We’re glad that, health-wise, we’re better now compared to how we came. My humble appeal to my colleagues is to be persistent and not skip training because we also have to win in Arusha,” he added.
Kiwanuka’s remarks underline the team’s determination to combine physical conditioning with preparations for the regional competition, while encouraging more legislators to take up the sport.
Kassanda South MP Bisaso Abdul also thanked the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Oboth Oboth, for giving legislators an opportunity to participate in regular physical exercise.
“I thank the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Oboth Oboth, for the chance granted to us to have these trainings every morning. It is not only for the competition, but they also help us health-wise,” Bisaso said.
“We came while unfit, but at least now we’re better. The blood circulation is better, and we go back to Parliament refreshed, with our brains sharp.
“I ask even our other colleagues who are not here to get at least a sport they can join. If they can’t manage this one, they can join others to ensure they are physically active,” he added.
Team coach Andrew Ssemaganda said the players had made progress in their fitness levels after three weeks of training, although inconsistent attendance remained a challenge due to parliamentary engagements.
“So far, we’re not bad. We have now trained for three weeks, and their fitness levels are improving. Some of them are busy with Parliament work, so their consistency is lacking,” Ssemaganda said.
“With the five to six weeks remaining, we shall be better and ready to defend our title,” he added.
The remaining weeks will be crucial for the team as it seeks to improve its physical conditioning and build the consistency required to compete against other East African parliamentary teams.
The Parliament of Uganda is expected to participate in at least eight sports disciplines at the Arusha Games: Tug of War, netball, basketball, volleyball, football, darts, athletics and golf.
With Uganda having won the men’s Tug of War title at the previous edition, the team will be seeking to maintain its position as the competition approaches.