Senior Reporter
The Three-time consecutive gold medalist in world athletics, Joshua Cheptegei, is set to participate in the John Kale Memorial Independence Sports Tournament 2023 next month in Kisoro District.
This has today been confirmed by Rwego Kenneth, the Chief Organizer of the tournament and Chief Executive Director of Eden Mission, during the event’s preparatory meeting at Travellers Rest House in Kisoro Municipality on Thursday.
The John Kale Memorial Independence Tournament is an annual event dedicated to commemorating the remarkable contributions of the late John Kalekezi, a Ugandan and African patriot born in Kisoro in 1932, whose life tragically ended in a plane crash in 1960.
This tournament holds a special place in the hearts of the local community and beyond.
This year marks the 8th edition of the tournament since its inception in 2011. The most recent edition took place in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted regular sporting events.
Rwego, addressing the media after the initial preparatory meeting, shared the exciting news that the tournament’s grand finale is scheduled for October 7, 2023.
This date holds particular significance as it has been reserved for a homecoming celebration in honor of retired army General Kale Kayihura, the son of the late John Kalekezi.
The tournament’s agenda is packed with various sporting activities, including athletics, football, netball, and volleyball. The winners of these competitions will be rewarded with valuable prizes, including a cow, a set of jerseys, and two balls, while the first runner-up will receive a goat, jerseys, and two balls.
Rwego passionately urged the public to embrace and actively participate in this event, emphasizing its role in fostering unity and promoting sports activities in the Kisoro district.
John Mfitumukiza, a councilor for Nyarusiza sub-county and one of the event organizers expressed his joy at the privilege of hosting a world athletic champion like Joshua Cheptegei in Kisoro.
He encouraged people to seize this unique opportunity to showcase their talents, with the possibility of being discovered for their exceptional abilities.
Mfitumukiza highlighted the presence of other renowned athletes like Dorcus Inzikuru and Jacob Kiplimo, who will be participating in the tournament.
They are attending to personally acknowledge General Kale Kayihura’s significant contributions to their successful careers.
