Historic Moment as Uganda Olympic Committee Receives Certificate of Recognition

By Emmanuel Sekago

Tuesday, October 22, 2024, will forever be etched in the history of Ugandan sports as the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) officially received its Certificate of Recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The milestone event took place at the Commonwealth Resort Hotel in Munyonyo, where IOC President Dr. Thomas Bach OLY handed over the certificate to UOC President Dr. Donald Rukare. The event was attended by key figures, including Uganda’s State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang.

For many national federations and associations, affiliation to their respective international bodies is common, but few have had the honor of receiving an official Certificate of Recognition.

This certificate confirms UOC as the sole body overseeing all Olympic sports in Uganda, marking a significant achievement in the country’s sporting landscape.

The UOC’s recognition by the IOC comes as good news not only to the committee itself but also to the broader sports community in Uganda. National federation and association stakeholders have expressed their excitement about this recognition, which solidifies UOC’s status and opens new opportunities for the development of Olympic sports in the country.

In interviews with Wallnet News, stakeholders from various national federations celebrated the achievement, emphasizing the importance of such recognition for Ugandan athletes and the sports ecosystem.

The certificate cements UOC’s position in overseeing and promoting Olympic values and sportsmanship across Uganda.

The official recognition from the IOC underscores the UOC’s commitment to fostering the Olympic spirit and supporting Ugandan athletes on their journey to the Olympic Games and other international competitions.

With this recognition, the UOC can now further strengthen its collaboration with international bodies and secure more support for Uganda’s sporting future.

Dr. Rukare, President of the UOC, expressed his gratitude to the IOC and reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to promoting sports excellence and Olympic values in Uganda. Minister Peter Ogwang echoed these sentiments, praising the UOC for its tireless efforts to elevate sports in the country.

This milestone is expected to open up further opportunities for Ugandan athletes and help position the country as a stronger contender on the global sports stage.