Uganda Paralympic Committee launches Athletes’ Council to empower athletes

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

2024 Paris Paralympian Deniss Mbaziira 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 during his maiden address to regional representatives from Uganda’s four regions after being elected Chairman of the Athletes’ Council.

In a closely contested election held at Matterwood Hotel in Kira, 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 was organized by the UPC in line with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) mandate, which requires the formation of an Athletes’ Council.

Husnah Kukundakwe casting her vote durig the elctions

As per IPC regulations, the council’s Chair and Vice-Chair automatically represent the interests of athletes in the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) executive. The Paralympic Athletes’ Council is tasked with advocating for the rights and interests of both current and retired Paralympic athletes, ensuring their voices are heard at all decision-making levels.

Mbaziira emphasized his commitment to working closely with Kukundakwe, particularly in promoting parasports through school engagements and community outreach programs.

“We are set to work together as a unit to ensure that sports becomes 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 for 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.

UPC Athletes’ Council executive 

Chairperson

DennisMbaziira

Vice Chairperson

 Husnah Kukundakwe

Treasurer

Sarah Nazziwa

Mwesigwa Elizabeth  Eastern Region

Kizza Daniel      Western Region

Ocira Richard      Northern Region

Lumiisa Lawrence   Central Region