President Yoweri Museveni has said the government is now going to focus on building stadiums and training facilities in order to promote sports in the country.
The head of State says sports are good for fitness, fighting diseases and tourism.
Museveni made the remarks through the Vice President Maj. Jessica Alupo who represented him during the commencement of the Men’s Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour in Uganda at State House-Entebbe. This trophy tour precedes the commencement of the Cricket World Cup tournament in India.
VP Alupo and sports state minister Ogwang present the trophy to Ugandans
He said that since 1986, the NRM government has been struggling with economic recovery, expansion, diversification and transformation.
“Given the low base from which we started, we had not paid sufficient attention to sports. However, now that we have registered significant improvements, in the economy, it is time to focus on building more stadiums and training facilities, across the country. The benefits of sports are many” he said outlining some of the benefits of sports including fitness; it helps one to fight against diseases that are associated with sedentary lifestyles; it is good for entertainment and tourism.
VP Alupo in a group photo with officials at State House
The Commander in Chief welcomed International Cricket Council (ICC) officials into the country saying Ugandans are pleased to associate with this great sports event.
“It is my firm belief that in the coming years, Uganda must be able to compete at the Cricket World Cup. We cannot be contented with remaining as spectators. Uganda has produced a number of outstanding sportsmen and sportswomen in Athletics, Boxing, Football, etc. We shall continue to support our young people to hoist Uganda’s flag, at great sports events” he said.
He thanked the ICC for giving Uganda the opportunity to host the Men’s Cricket World Cup Tour.
