President Museveni and First Lady Flag Off Team Uganda for Paris 2024 Olympics

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni, who also serves as the Minister of Education and Sports, have officially flagged off Team Uganda ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

The games, set to take place from July 26 to August 11, will see 25 Ugandan athletes competing on the world stage.

During the ceremony at State House, Entebbe, President Museveni expressed his pride in the rising number of young Ugandans excelling in sports.

He highlighted the multifaceted benefits of sports, including fitness, character development, entertainment, employment, and national publicity.

President Museveni also stressed the importance of discipline for the athletes to achieve their goals.

“Strictly good living is very important to be able to reach your potential. Of course, the sports period is very short, and you need to use that time well,” he advised.

He assured that the government is investing more in the sports sector, citing the establishment of peace in Kapchorwa, which has enabled young athletes to train without disruptions.

Furthermore, the President encouraged athletes to consider careers in the army, police, and prisons services as a way to sustain their skills.

“When you are there, you have got a small salary, some accommodation, and time to train,” he said.

First Lady Janet Museveni congratulated the athletes on their significant achievement and urged them to represent Uganda with humility.

She emphasized the importance of resisting pride and acknowledging the privilege of being chosen to compete.

“If you clothe yourself with the humility that such a service requires, you shall be able to resist the pride that comes with such an opportunity,” she stated.

The First Lady also commended President Museveni for his unwavering support for sports development in Uganda.

She noted the completion of the first phase of the National High Altitude Training Centre in Teryet, Kapchorwa, and the ongoing construction of world-class stadiums in Hoima City and Lira City.

These facilities, she said, will significantly boost the development of young athletes across the country.

France's Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Xavier Sticker, assured that France is ready to host the Olympics and provide exceptional hospitality. Dr. Donald Rukare, President of the Uganda Olympic Committee, confirmed that Uganda will be represented by 25 athletes, matching the number sent to the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.

He expressed gratitude for the continuous support from the government and the First Lady.

The flagging-off ceremony was attended by notable figures including Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, Ministry of Education and Sports Permanent Secretary Ms. Ketty Lamaro, and National Council of Sports Chairperson Mr. Ambrose Tashobya