Uganda is hosting the East Africa Community (EAC) Parliamentary Games from December 6 to 17, 2025, bringing together legislators from across the region in a celebration of sports, camaraderie, and regional integration. The games aim to expand markets, enhance trade, reduce barriers, facilitate free movement of goods, and champion peace and security within the EAC.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on December 6, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang highlighted the role of sports in promoting integration. “Sports is a key driver in bringing lawmakers closer to the people and aligning our efforts to celebrate and serve our communities,” he said.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa emphasized that the games are not merely about competition, but about fostering prosperity and unity across the East African Community. He echoed President Museveni’s message, calling for the elimination of non-tariff barriers, improvement of transport infrastructure, and support for value-addition chains, while noting that access to the Indian Ocean and enhanced regional security, including a potential naval force, could benefit all member states.
Former EAC Secretary General Amanya Mushega urged legislators to formulate policies today that will benefit future generations, while Joseph Ntakirutimana, Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) commended Uganda for its readiness and commitment to host the games at short notice.
Moses Wetangula, Speaker of Kenya’s National Assembly, lauded the event for bringing elected leaders together to strengthen unity, asserting that sports can serve as a powerful marketing tool for EAC integration. Rwanda’s Senate Vice President Alvera Mukabaramba described the games as a platform to share aspirations, saying, “Every game played contributes to a more cohesive community.” Burundi’s Senate Vice President Clotilde Kampimbare added that the games promote inter-parliamentary relations and regional cooperation through sports diplomacy, crucial for the community’s growth.
The games unite parliaments from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, and South Sudan, competing in football, basketball, volleyball, netball, and athletics across both male and female categories. Uganda currently leads the standings across all disciplines, demonstrating its prowess and commitment to the EAC spirit.
Source:Parliament Watch