Mbaziira, Kukundakwe to head Paralympic athletes’ council

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The Uganda Paralympic Committee (UPC) has ushered in a new era with the establishment of its Athletes’ Council executive, a significant milestone in amplifying the voices of athletes with disabilities.

2024 Paris Paralympian Dennis Mbaziira, who was elected Chairperson, has pledged to be a strong advocate for disabled athletes, ensuring their concerns and needs are effectively communicated to the UPC executive over the next four years.

Mbaziira made this commitment in his maiden address to regional representatives from Uganda’s four regions after assuming leadership of the Athletes’ Council.

In a closely contested election, Mbaziira secured 17 votes, followed by fellow Paralympian Husnah Kukundakwe with four votes. Veteran para-athlete David Emong finished third with three votes from the 24 voters present.

The election, held at Matterwood Hotel in Kira, was organised by the UPC in line with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) mandate, which requires the formation of an Athletes’ Council. As per IPC regulations, the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson automatically represent athletes’ interests in the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) executive.

The Paralympic Athletes’ Council exists to advocate for the rights and interests of both current and retired Paralympic athletes, ensuring their voices are heard at all decision-making levels.

Mbaziira emphasised his commitment to working closely with Vice-Chairperson Husnah Kukundakwe, particularly in promoting parasports through school engagements and community outreach programmes.

“We are set to work together as a unit to ensure that sports become a voice for the disabled, allowing them to air their grievances and unite as a powerful force for change,” Mbaziira stated.

UPC president Bumaali Mpindi expressed his excitement about the new council and pledged full support in its mission to uplift disability sports in Uganda.

“We are glad that the council is now in place. Soon, athletes’ concerns from all over the country will be addressed, along with extensive recruitment of new para-athletes to the movement,” Mpindi affirmed.