Recalibrating Uganda’s Sports Funding.

In several towns in Uganda, The streets are alive with youth seeking opportunities or enjoyment through work, sports, etc. Whenever a Ugandan team competes internationally, electric energy fills the air—one driven by ambition and dreams of national athletic glory. However, beneath this vibrant facade lies a critical issue: the urgent need to recalibrate Uganda’s sports funding to secure both competition and glory for the nation. Often as the sun sets, groups of young people gather at local sports venues, their faces glowing with hope and determination. Among them are children and seniors discussing the latest sports updates. Hope fills the air when a talented athlete who has earned a spot on the national team appears on the television screen.

Despite their tireless training, the reality of our athlete’s situation is stark. Regardless of the funding for the sport, the fans and taxpayers expect success. “There’s so much talent in chess, wrestling, table tennis, etc. Why don’t they receive the support they deserve?” These sentiments resonate with many. Recently, the National Council of Sports (NCS) and the Ministry of Education and Sports have made commendable efforts to classify and provide direct government support for various sports—a positive step forward. Yet, the funding model still disproportionately favors a selected few federations, leaving many talented athletes in the shadows.

In modest offices filled with TVs, charts, and data, sports analysts review the latest results daily. Many have long advocated for a fairer distribution of resources. “The old model is broken,” declare many sports fans. “We’ve seen world-class performances from chess players, that continue to point at a need for much more funding allocation to the sport.” The once-promising illusion of a 17 billion shilling sponsorship tied to a single sport has resulted in widespread discontent and frustration. It’s time to rethink this approach. “It’s not just about money; it’s about potential,” many argue. “Every sport has unique merits that can drive national development.”

Meanwhile, the global chess community has surpassed one billion players, highlighting the sport’s potential beyond traditional popularity metrics. “If chess can thrive globally, why can’t we invest in it here?” is a common question during chess community meetings. “We must recognize that every sports discipline can contribute to our national identity.” A shift in perspective is essential. Uganda needs to prioritize performance-based funding over popularity, embracing the technical aspects of each sport. Many envision a future where athletes from all disciplines receive the support they need to reach their full potential. “Imagine a Uganda where every athlete, regardless of their sport, has equal resources to train and compete at the highest level,” they say, eyes shining with hope. As discussions evolve, the need for strategic transformational plans becomes evident. The old mindset must give way to a new framework that emphasizes equitable funding. We must commit to a fairer approach that nurtures all sports and honors the talent of every Ugandan athlete. The population deserves this sense of purpose. Such a change could spark a sports movement.

If key decision-makers act decisively, history will not judge them harshly for inaction. Instead, they will pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for Uganda, rooted in the diverse talents of its people. Every decision should serve as a reminder of the limitless potential waiting to be unlocked. The time to recalibrate Uganda’s sports funding is now—a time to invest in every athlete, every dream, and the promise of a united future. Let us not fall into a fool’s paradise.

The writer is Eng. Mwaka Emmanuel,

President of the Uganda Chess Federation.