Museveni Directs: No school to be licensed without a sports field
Beyond facilities, the President outlined a holistic vision for nurturing sporting talent. He stressed the need for institutional support, stating, "We must support young talents through institutions like the Police and the Army, giving them both jobs and the opportunity to train and compete."
President Yoweri Museveni has issued a landmark directive, stating that no school in Uganda will be licensed to operate without possessing its own dedicated sports field. The announcement came during a celebratory dinner at State House with the national football team, the Uganda Cranes, following their participation in the recently concluded African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The President’s instruction underscores a renewed focus on sports development and talent identification from the grassroots. “No school should be licensed without a sports field. This is not about money, it is about policy and organisation,” Museveni declared, emphasizing the strategic importance of this requirement.
The directive was issued in the context of celebrating the Uganda Cranes’ performance in the CHAN tournament, which Uganda co-hosted with Kenya and Tanzania. The national team made history by reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the continental competition.
President Museveni reiterated the government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure across the country. “Government will continue to construct and upgrade sports facilities across the country, just as we have done with Namboole,” he stated, referring to the national stadium.
Beyond facilities, the President outlined a holistic vision for nurturing sporting talent. He stressed the need for institutional support, stating, “We must support young talents through institutions like the Police and the Army, giving them both jobs and the opportunity to train and compete.”
He also highlighted the foundational role of health and nutrition, asserting, “Sports must begin with health and nutrition. Strong athletes come from children who are immunised and well fed.”
Drawing on his personal experience as a former football and cricket player, President Museveni underscored the invaluable qualities imbibed through sports.
He noted that sports “instill discipline, teamwork and persistence,” attributes he believes are crucial for Uganda’s nation-building efforts. “Uganda is showing the world what we are capable of. What we need now is proper planning for sports development,” he added, congratulating the Cranes for their significant improvement.
During the dinner, President Museveni also fulfilled a pledge made during the tournament, confirming the disbursement of funds to the team. He had promised Shs 30 million for every match won, leading to a total of Shs 1.2 billion for the team’s efforts.
“I promised and am implementing, so today I am fulfilling my pledge. Every time you win I would give 30 million each and I have already put the money on your account,” he announced, highlighting his commitment to supporting national athletes.
