The East African Community (EAC) Council of Ministers is asked to implore Partner States to establish state of art facilities to enable athletes enhance their skills and dominance at the world stage.
This was after the East African Legislative Assembly sitting in Kampala honored the regions athletes who have excelled at the on-going World Athletics Championships in Beijing.
The members moved a motion for resolution to support the East African Athletes from Kenya that have taken the lead in the Beijing games having amassed a total of 11 medals, 6 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze.
During debate, Hon Dr James Ndahiro termed the Resolution timely and that it was further in line with the enactment of the Culture and Creative Industries Bill, 2015 passed by the Assembly at the Sitting.
Uganda’s representative Mike Sebalu says it is time for the EAC to associate with the celebrities and icons of the region and in that way create awareness.
Hon Susan Nakawuki noted that She-Cranes (Uganda) had also performed well in the Netball World Cup as was a number of athletes from Republic of Uganda which scooped 1 Bronze. She called on the EAC Partner States to establish rigorous infrastructure to effect anti-doping measures in the industry.
While Hon Abdullah Mwinyi rooted for grassroots’ support. “It is of critical importance as we broaden base of talent and opportunities at all levels. The EAC can think about a further competition. I commend them for organizing debates. Let us have athletics for example also done.” he said.
The regional assembly has resolved that EAC Partner States protect sports personalities especially the females who are prone to different forms of abuse.
The Resolution recognizes that culture and sports play a key role in the existence and survival of the communities, particularly for social cohesion, solidarity, stability and identity, and with the Resolution, the Speaker of EALA, Rt. Hon Daniel F. Kidega adjourned the Assembly indefinitely.
Story by Catherine Ageno
