STAFF REPORTER
The Minister of State for Sports in the Ministry of Education and Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, has urged local leaders in Mbarara District and Mbarara City to collaborate with the central government to further the development of Kakyeka Stadium.
Hon. Ogwang shared this advice while officiating at the Empuumo Marathon 2024, an event held at the Ntare School playground in Kamukuzi, Mbarara City North Division, aimed at raising awareness about the fight against HIV/AIDS among adolescents in southwestern Uganda.
Ogwang emphasized the need for unified efforts to improve sports infrastructure, specifically to support youth and community health initiatives such as the marathon. He disclosed that the Ministry of Education and Sports allocated UGX 1.5 billion in the last financial year for the initial phase of Kakyeka Stadium’s construction, which will include the installation of artificial turf, a pavilion, modern flush toilets, and other facilities. However, internal conflicts over the stadium’s land title between Mbarara District and Mbarara City authorities have delayed the project’s progress.
Mbarara City North Division MP, Hon. Robert Mwesigwa Rukari, commended the strong turnout for the Empuumo Marathon, stating that it would help spread the message of HIV/AIDS prevention. He also reminded young people that Uganda is a protected nation and encouraged stakeholders to join in efforts to curb the spread of HIV, safeguarding the country’s future.
Chief Mobilizer of the Empuumo Marathon 2024, Ms. Rosette Mutambi Kajungu, revealed that the marathon was organized in collaboration with the Initiative for Better Health, the Ministry of Health, and the Uganda AIDS Commission, among others, as part of a range of activities to promote HIV/AIDS awareness among adolescents in the southwestern region.
Medals and cash prizes were awarded to the top runners in the event.
