Uganda must compete, not merely observe Cricket World Cup, Museveni says

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has said is imperative for Uganda to transition from being mere spectators, to actively participating in the Cricket World Cup, indicating the nation's increasing economic advancements as a catalyst for this endeavour. 

Museveni's assertion came as Vice President Jessica Alupo conveyed his message during an event at State House Entebbe, where the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy was welcomed ahead of the upcoming October tournament in India. 

Recognising the honour of hosting the ICC trophy tour, Museveni urged Ugandans to embrace a more proactive stance and outlined his vision that Uganda should evolve into a competitive force at international tournaments rather than being content with passive engagement. 

Vice President Jessica Alupo and State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang hold the Cricket World Cup trophy after receiving it from an ICC official at State House Entebbe on Sunday. (PPU Photos)

“It is my firm belief that in the coming years, Uganda must be able to compete at the Cricket World Cup. We cannot be content with remaining as spectators. Uganda has produced a number of outstanding sportsmen and women in different fields such as athletics, boxing, football etc., and we shall continue to support our young people to hoist Uganda’s flag at great sports events,” Museveni said. 

He acknowledged that the years following 1986 have seen the NRM government prioritise economic recovery, expansion, diversification, and transformation. In the pursuit of these goals, the focus on sports took a back seat, despite its multiple benefits including fitness, combating lifestyle diseases, entertainment, and tourism. 

State sports minister Peter Ogwang noted that the trophy tour would motivate Uganda's youth and emerging cricket players. By embracing the spirit of sports and cricket, in particular, the youth would be empowered. 

Vice President Jessica Alupo receives a present from members of Uganda Cricket Association at State House Entebbe on Sunday.

“As we host the World Cup trophy today, we are focusing on motivating our people to fully embrace the spirit of sports and specifically the game of cricket. Uganda is number one in Africa and we are the champions of cricket as of now this year,” Ogwang stated. He also expressed his support for including cricket in the African Games, formerly known as the All-Africa Games. 

David Katende, the assistant general secretary in charge of technical affairs at the National Council of Sports, noted the motivational value of the trophy’s arrival as a pivotal moment for Ugandan cricket. 

“Given the support that we are getting from the government, we must be in the next World Cup,” Katende emphasised.  

Uganda Cricket Association CEO Alan Mugume commended the progress of the sport in the country, attributing it to the hard work of predecessors. 

Uganda's selection as a tour host, alongside Nigeria and South Africa, reflects the nation's growing significance in the cricket world. The trophy's tour in Uganda, scheduled until August 29, aims to inspire the local cricket community and ignite the passion of the next generation of cricketers.