UAF seeks sh10b budget boost to grow athletics nationwide
A key issue raised during the meeting was the sport's insufficient revenue generation, with many delegates urging the government to increase the athletics budget from sh3 billion to sh10 billion.
Belinda Chemutai (center) and Joy Cheptoyek (right) work out with their pace setter at the Teryet High Altitude Training Center, July 20, 2024. (File photo)
Faith Kiai
Journalist @New Vision
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The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) held its annual general meeting on Saturday at Namboole Stadium, using the platform to review 2024 and strategies for 2025.
A key issue raised during the meeting was the sport's insufficient revenue generation, with many delegates urging the government to increase the athletics budget from sh3 billion to sh10 billion.
While athletics remains Uganda’s golden sport, stakeholders feel the current budget allocation does not reflect its importance.
“Our finances are very low. We had members implore the National Council of Sports to increase the funding. At the moment, our funding is at sh3 billion, but we think it should be increased to sh10 billion,” said UAF Vice President for Administration, Lawrence Kavuma.
Despite financial concerns, stakeholders expressed satisfaction with facility developments across the country, particularly at Aki Bua Stadium and Hoima Stadium.
Meanwhile, National Council of Sports (NCS) representative Sarah Chelangat urged the federation to align its constitution with the sports law as soon as possible.
Currently, athletics has a 50 percent coverage nationwide, with the goal of reaching 85 percent to maintain its association status.