NAIROBI, Kenya – A delegation from the Uganda Parliamentary Sports Club is currently in Kenya, engaging with local counterparts to glean insights into the successful organisation of the East African Community (EAC) EALA Games. Uganda is set to host the next iteration of the regional sporting event, and this visit forms a crucial part of their preparatory efforts.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, who also serves as the President of the Bureau of East African Community Speakers, met with the Ugandan team. During their discussions, Speaker Wetangula reiterated the core philosophy behind the EALA Games: fostering regional unity and camaraderie, rather than solely focusing on competitive victory.

Emphasising Unity Through Sport

“As the President of the Bureau of East African Community Speakers, I was briefed by the Uganda Parliamentary Sports Club on their preparations for the East African Community EALA games, which Uganda gracefully agreed to host,” Speaker Wetangula stated. He further elaborated on the significance of the games, highlighting their role in strengthening bonds among East Africans.

The EALA Games, an annual multi-sport event, bring together Members of Parliament and staff from the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and national parliaments of EAC partner states. The games feature various disciplines, including football, netball, volleyball, basketball, and athletics, providing a platform for interaction and cultural exchange beyond legislative duties.

Kenya's Experience as a Benchmark

Kenya has previously hosted the EALA Games, accumulating valuable experience in event management, logistics, and participant engagement. The Ugandan delegation's visit is therefore aimed at leveraging this expertise, particularly in areas such as venue preparation, accreditation processes, security arrangements, and the overall participant experience.

Sources within the Kenyan Parliament indicate that the discussions have covered a wide range of operational aspects. These include strategies for mobilising resources, engaging local communities, ensuring fair play, and creating an atmosphere conducive to both competitive sport and regional fellowship. The exchange of knowledge is expected to significantly enhance Uganda's capacity to deliver a successful and memorable event.

Regional Integration and Policy Implications

Analysts suggest that such cross-border collaborations in sports administration could have broader implications for regional integration. The successful hosting of the EALA Games by Uganda, informed by Kenya's experience, could serve as a model for future joint ventures within the EAC framework. It underscores the commitment of partner states to work together not only on economic and political fronts but also in cultural and social spheres.

Stakeholders are urging for clarity on the timelines, estimated costs, and safeguards being put in place for the upcoming games. Transparency in these areas is crucial for public confidence and effective resource allocation. The EALA Games are not merely a sporting event; they are a significant diplomatic and cultural undertaking that reflects the spirit of East African cooperation.

The visit by the Ugandan delegation is a testament to the collaborative spirit within the EAC. It reinforces the idea that shared experiences and mutual learning are vital for the collective progress and development of the East African community. As Uganda prepares to welcome participants from across the region, the lessons learned from Kenya will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the success of the upcoming EALA Games.