Uganda’s Parliament emerged as the overall winner of the 13th Edition of the Inter-Parliamentary Games held in Kigali, Rwanda.
The closing ceremony, a grand affair at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village on Monday, December 18, 2023, marked the culmination of a week-long sports gala filled with fierce competition and moments of triumph.
Uganda’s parliamentary team left an indelible mark, securing a remarkable total of 7 trophies and numerous medals during the prestigious event’s closing dinner gala.
The golfers, led by the dynamic Deputy Speaker, Honourable Thomas Tayebwa, demonstrated their skill and determination, clinching the top spot ahead of other East African Community (EAC) parliaments with impressive scores of 270 and 268 points for men and women respectively.
The Parliament football team showcased dominance in soccer, claiming the championship with an unbeaten campaign. Their maximum of 15 points, coupled with a record-breaking 32 goals and conceding only two, solidified their status as champions.
In netball, Uganda secured the second spot, with Tanzania emerging as the frontrunners.
Uganda’s basketball prowess was evident as they secured the championship in the men’s category.
The women’s volleyball team, a formidable force, triumphed in their category, adding another feather to Uganda’s cap.
The Ugandan ladies displayed remarkable tenacity, earning two bronze medals in the tug-of-war game’s ladies category, showcasing their strength and determination.
Hon. Francine Rutazana, Chairperson of the Joint Planning Committee of East African Community Games 2023, expressed satisfaction with the tournament’s success and emphasized the importance of compliance with rules for fostering integration among East African parliaments.
“Let’s maintain the spirit and keep enhancing compliance and clarity in the rules to widen integration. EAC Games are key aspects of building relations between the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and other regional parliaments. We are all winners of this competition in the name of integration,” said Hon. Rutazana.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa highlighted the transcendent power of sports in his remarks at the dinner gala, stating, “Sports can help us build our countries, liberate families, and build friendships.”
His words underscored the potential of sports as a tool for promoting East African unity and cooperation.
As the curtains closed on the 13th Inter-Parliamentary Games, Uganda stood not only as a sporting powerhouse but also as a symbol of regional integration, friendship, and success on the international stage.
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