President Yoweri Museveni met with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Mr. Thomas Bach, at State House Entebbe. The meeting, also attended by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, aimed at discussing sports development in Uganda, with a special focus on the involvement of the refugee community in global sports.
During the discussions, President Museveni expressed his appreciation for the IOC’s Refugee Olympic Team initiative, which supports refugee athletes worldwide. The team is composed of independent Olympic participants who are refugees, giving them a platform to showcase their talents on the global stage.
“I am very pleased with this initiative,” said President Museveni. “Thank you for supporting the Olympic team for refugees. It’s a wonderful innovation, and I am sure it will help talented refugees to excel through sports,” he added.
Uganda’s Athletic Success and Invitation to International Athletes
The president highlighted Uganda’s growing success in athletics, attributing it to favorable training conditions, particularly at the newly established high-altitude training center. He extended an invitation to athletes from other nations to come and train in Uganda, noting that the higher altitude offers an excellent environment for athletes to improve their endurance by learning how to economize oxygen.
Uganda’s Refugee-Friendly Policy
President Museveni further emphasized Uganda’s welcoming stance toward refugees, explaining that the country’s inclusive refugee policy stems from its philosophy of solidarity and support. He noted that Uganda provides security for refugees and allows them to integrate into society rather than restricting them to camps. Many refugees are involved in business and are well-integrated into communities across the country.
“Uganda doesn’t have any of its citizens living as refugees,” Museveni remarked, mentioning how peace and stability have been restored, leading to a large Ugandan diaspora that now sends remittances back home. “When refugees arrive here, we offer them security and opportunities to thrive.”
However, Museveni also called on international organizations to increase their support to Uganda in managing the extra logistical challenges that arise from hosting large refugee populations, particularly in areas like food supply and education.
First Lady’s Acknowledgment of IOC Support
First Lady Janet Museveni also expressed her gratitude to Mr. Bach and his delegation for their visit to Uganda. She underscored the country’s commitment to sports development and the Olympic movement, noting Uganda’s progress since joining the IOC in 1954.
“Our athletes have made us proud by excelling on the international stage. We’re thankful for the IOC’s efforts in empowering refugees through sports,” she said.
Refugee Olympic Team: A Global Symbol of Hope
Mr. Bach highlighted the significance of the Refugee Olympic Team, calling it a symbol of hope for refugees worldwide. He explained that the team aims to raise awareness about the global refugee crisis and the importance of providing opportunities for displaced individuals.
The meeting was also attended by Dr. Mustapha Berraf, President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA). Together with President Museveni and Mr. Bach, they discussed ways to further promote sports in Uganda and the region.
This collaboration between Uganda and the IOC highlights the power of sports to unite people and create opportunities for individuals from all walks of life, including refugees who are rebuilding their lives in new countries.