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Dr. Donald Rukare poised to retain UOC Presidency unopposed for a second term
With just Two days left until the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) elective assembly, Dr. Donald Rukare is set to retain the UOC presidency unopposed for a second term spanning 2025-2028. Rukare, who first assumed the position on February 27, 2021, when he succeeded William Blick, will extend his leadership for another four years, pending formal endorsement by delegates on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Reflecting on his tenure and future ambitions, Rukare expressed gratitude for the support received and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Uganda’s sports ecosystem.
“Together, we have the power to elevate sports in Uganda to unprecedented heights and empower generations of athletes to achieve greatness,” Rukare told Wallnetnews digital ahead of the elections.
He emphasized that his experience, integrity, and global networks uniquely position him to continue strengthening sports in Uganda.
Rukare outlined a bold vision for his second term, focusing on fostering a sustainable, inclusive, and athlete-centered sports ecosystem that ensures Uganda’s global competitiveness.
“My 30 years of experience across public, private, and international sectors have given me the tools to drive sports development at the highest level. We are committed to ensuring Uganda thrives on the global stage,” he stated.
During his first term, Rukare and his team delivered significant milestones, including; Athlete Support- Provided scholarships to 30 athletes and the men’s and women’s rugby teams, while training 2,000 sports administrators, International Success-Supported podium performances at major competitions like the Africa Games (Accra), Commonwealth Games (Birmingham), Islamic Games (Konya), and the Olympic Games (Tokyo and Paris), Corporate Partnerships- Secured over UGX 400 million in sponsorship deals with brands such as Nile Breweries, Plascon, Sanlam, and Graphic Systems, Strengthened transparency, accountability and the governance framework of the UOC/CGU while supporting 33 member federations, Initiated the acquisition of land to build a permanent UOC home, Hosted IOC President Dr. Thomas Bach in October 2024, alongside other regional and international sports leaders and Positioned UOC/CGU as a reference point in regional and international sports affairs.
Rukare’s second term will focus Areas for 2025-2028 on the following key priority areas, Prioritize athlete welfare—including physical, mental, and financial well-being, Create pathways for young athletes to access training, mentorship, and competition, Scale up coaches’ training and enrichment programs to ensure athlete development and Celebrate and empower Ugandan sports ambassadors on the international stage.
Support national federations in their operational needs to deliver sports excellence, Enhance transparency and accountability within the UOC and Ensure inclusive decision-making that reflects the diverse voices within the sports community.
Infrastructure Development, Secure a permanent home for the UOC to strengthen its capacity and visibility, Collaborate with government bodies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to secure resources for sports development and Advocate for policy changes recognizing sports as a driver for social and economic transformation.
With Diversity and Inclusion to Increase participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in sports and Promote sports as a unifying and inclusive force across all regions of Uganda.
Rukare’s re-election is expected to maintain continuity while pushing for further growth and innovation in Uganda’s sports ecosystem. His experience, diplomatic networks, and visionary leadership position him to drive lasting impact.
“Our mission is to create a thriving sports culture where every Ugandan athlete can realize their potential and represent our nation with pride,” Rukare concluded.
As Uganda’s sports community looks ahead to March 22, 2025, the unopposed candidacy of Dr. Donald Rukare reflects broad confidence in his leadership and the future direction of the Uganda Olympic Committee.
Source:Wallnetnews