Uganda took a strong lead at the ongoing 15th East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games.
Under the theme “Advancing Integration Through Parliamentary Sports”, the host nation showed its strength across all sports while using the tournament to promote regional unity, economic ties, and political cooperation.
From volleyball to basketball and netball, Uganda has maintained a perfect win record. This performance thrilled crowds at Lugogo, Kololo and other venues, establishing the host nation as the clear favorite for the 2025 edition.
This success comes as regional leaders, led by Ugandan officials and visiting speakers, used the games’ opening ceremonies to call for greater East African integration. They emphasized that sports should reflect the region’s shared destiny. Uganda kicked off its campaign with a decisive win, defeating Rwanda in straight sets during the men’s volleyball match.
The home team then dominated the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), winning 25–7 in the first set before securing another easy victory.
“We expect that we’re going to have it easy because this year is ours, this trophy has evaded us for the four years, since we’re the hosts, we’re determined to retain the volleyball trophy here,” Peter Okeyo, MP Bukooli Island, a member of the Uganda Volleyball team, said.
Nicolas Kamara, MP Kabale Municipality, also a member of the Uganda volleyball team, added: “We had a very secret plan; as we were in constituencies, we started doing exercises and physical activity and also towards the end we got personal coaches; so we are as hot as the sun.”
In basketball, Uganda beat Kenya 40–20, led by Captain Suzan Amero with 16 points, alongside Connie Galiwango with 7 points and Hellen Nakimuli with 6 points. Netball also delivered a strong performance, with Uganda winning 72– 12 against Kenya. Sarah Netalisire and Masaka City Woman MP Juliet Kakande topped the scoring.
The team will now focus on their next match against Burundi on Friday. Uganda’s dominance grew at Namboole as Christine Akello (No. 499) won the women’s 1500m with a time of 8:30. Kenya’s Phylis Barioo took second place.
Uganda completed the podium with Hellen Auma in third and Gorreth Namugga in fourth. The men’s 1500m had another exciting finish. Julius Acon (No. 473) claimed victory with a time of 5:23.5, just ahead of Kenya’s Titus Lotee, who finished in 5:24.0. Kenya’s John Kagucha came in third with a time of 5:54.08.
Uganda remains unmatched across all sports. Every game played has ended with a victory, exciting local fans and showing the country’s readiness, even after taking on the hosting duties at short notice.
MUSEVENI ’S MESSAGE: UNITY BEYOND THE SCORELINE
Deputy speaker of parliament Thomas Tayebwa shared the president’s message, emphasizing that the value of the games extends beyond medals and scores. He reminded participants that competition should embody the spirit of East African brotherhood and sisterhood: “Our region only grows when we support each other. Even teams that do not score deserve recognition because participation itself builds unity.”
He urged leaders to see the games as a sign of the EAC’s commitment to prosperity and integration, stressing the importance of removing trade barriers, enhancing cross-border infrastructure, and developing shared strategic resources, including satellite technology, naval capacity and regional security.
The games also brought together key parliamentary leaders from the region, all reiterating their support for a stronger East African Community. Former EAC Secretary General Amanya Mushega delivered a compelling keynote, encouraging lawmakers to create policies that benefit future generations rather than just address immediate national concerns.
“As politicians, the destiny of regional integration lies in our hands, and we must work diligently to achieve it,” he said.
Joseph Ntakirutimana, speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly, praised Uganda for hosting the games effectively on short notice. He called the country’s efforts inspiring for the entire community.
He pointed out that holding this year’s games in Kampala has created a special chance to promote regional integration through the unifying power of sport.
“These games remind us that sports can strengthen bonds, build relationships, and encourage peace and calm in our region, sport is a universal language that connects people across cultures and locations, it brings us together, allowing us to connect across borders and backgrounds.”
The speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula, highlighted the founding goals of the community, stressing the need for a shared currency, a united customs union, and the long-term aim of a political federation.
He shared his disappointment about the ongoing arrests of EAC citizens related to permit issues, and noted that these challenges go against the essence of regional unity. To resolve this, he urged regional lawmakers to create laws that allow easy movement of citizens and goods across borders, by emphasizing the role of unity.
“I pray that a political federation of the EAC comes to fruition in our lifetime. Integration is not optional. We all know that EAC countries are stronger together than apart.”
Kampala has officially transformed into the heartbeat of East African sports diplomacy as it hosts a comprehensive 14-day tournament for regional lawmakers. The event features a diverse array of competitions, ranging from football and basketball to traditional events like tug-of-war and darts.
As the host nation, Uganda has opened its doors to delegations from South Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda and Kenya, all of whom are eager to demonstrate their athletic prowess while strengthening regional ties.
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