The excitement and anticipation could be felt in the air as the Opening Ceremony of the National Kids Athletics and SNE Championship kicked off at the Kitgum Boma Grounds. With over 140 districts, cities, and municipalities participating, and whopping over 4000 participants, this year’s championship is set to be another big one though under 16 was scrapped off and only left with under 12 and 14.
Hosted by the Kitgum Public School, the championship will run until the 22nd of May. Last year’s championship was held in Luwero District, but this year, all eyes are on Kitgum as it hosts this prestigious sports event for the very first time.
The Chief Guest for the opening ceremony was none other than Honorable Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the Minister of State for Education and Sports (Primary Education).
She was welcomed by officials from both the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (UPSSA) and the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The District Education Officer of Kitgum, Lawot Anthony, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to host the championship and stated that they are willing to host more events of this nature in the future.
He also highlighted the importance of such events in promoting sports and healthy competition among young children.
Speaking of the history of UPSSA, the association’s President, William Bwambale, shared that it was established in 1989 in Tororo though it was not successful as now. He also thanked the elder association USSSA for their support and guidance.
The partnership between UPSSA and USSSA has proved to be a successful one, with USSSA providing a full secretariat for making accreditation cards and certification , 50 million shillings to facilitate officiating officials, and organizing capacity building training for primary teachers in coaching, refereeing, and umpiring last year in Mbarara .
Twahil Kiteezaala, the 1st President of USSSA, expressed his pride in being associated s with UPSSA and their commitment to promoting sports in the country.
“The Ministry of Education and Sports has also shown its support by providing 40 million shillings to every district, with 10 million shillings dedicated to capacity building” Honorable Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu.
She also emphasized the importance of investing in sports at a young age and how it can positively impact the development of children.
As the championship officially begins, the energy and enthusiasm of the participants and officials are palpable. With such strong support from various organizations and the government, the National Kids Athletics and SNE Championship is sure to be a success.
Kitgum is proud to be the host of this event and is looking forward to a memorable and competitive championship.
