Uganda is ready to host the 15th edition of the East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games scheduled for Kampala from December 5 to 17.
Delegations from Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) have confirmed participation at the annual showpiece.
The theme for this year's games is: “One Region, One Community: Advancing Integration through Parliaments and Sports.”
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) confirmed that major logistical, medical, and venue preparations had been finalised ahead of the games.
The LOC, headed by Bugiri MP Asuman Basalirwa, confirmed that all venues have been inspected and approved, medical partnerships secured, and hospitality arrangements completed.
“We are ready to host East Africa. Uganda is prepared both in facilities and spirit, and we look forward to welcoming our brothers and sisters from the region," Basalirwa said.
He said a list of hotels that will provide accommodation has been finalised and shared with all delegates.
Mwala MP Vincent Kawaya, announced that Kenya's National Assembly and Senate will compete in all eight disciplines.
“We will take as many trophies as possible because we know Ugandans are busy preparing for elections, but what matters most is the unity these games foster,” he said, adding that Kenya fully supports Uganda’s hosting efforts.
The games will be held across Kampala at venues including Philip Omondi Stadium (Lugogo), Hams Stadium, Wankulukuku Stadium, Kyambogo University, Makerere University, and Namboole Stadium, among others.
Golf events will take place at Kampala Golf Club and Serena Golf Resort, Kigo.
The committee confirmed medical readiness with Hospitals such as Kampala Hospital, Nakasero, Aga Khan, and IHK. Mulago and Nsambya Hospitals are expected to join.
“These hospitals have agreed to partner with us to provide medical services during the tournament,” Basalirwa said.
Admission for the games will be free, which, according to EAC MPs is a gesture intended to promote community involvement.
Parliament of Uganda, which is the defending champion, has vowed to continue with its dominance.
"We cannot afford to lose on home soil. Even with a tight national electoral schedule, we are training hard to remain on top," said the MP.
The EALA Secretariat urged East Africans to turn up in large numbers, saying the games belong to the people and play a vital role in “deepening, widening, and tightening regional integration".
Last year, President William Ruto officially opened the 14th edition of the East African Community (EAC) inter-parliamentary sports games.
At least 3,500 MPs and their support staff from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, South Sudan, Somalia and DR Congo were expected in the county.
Wetang’ula who is the President of the Bureau of EAC Speakers confirmed that all the Speakers of parliaments from the other seven member states would attend the past event.
He added that he had also invited all the governors from the coastal region to join them in the event.
Highlighting the significance of the competition, the Speaker pointed out that the event helps to widen, deepen and tighten the EAC engagement by the people of East Africa.
