Uganda Government has officially flagged off its contingent for the 22nd Federation of East Africa Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) Games, set for August 14–23, 2025, in Kakamega, Kenya.
The ceremony, held at the National Council of Sports (NCS) headquarters, was presided over by NCS General Secretary Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel.
The Ugandan team comprises 1,582 athletes drawn from 80 secondary schools and 11 primary schools, including three Special Needs Education Schools (SNES).
They will field a total of 124 teams across 19 disciplines. This year’s edition will see the debut of chess and scrabble, while lacrosse, beach soccer, cricket, and dance sport feature as demonstration sports.
Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) CEO Christopher Mugisha Banage hailed the diversity of sports and the inclusive nature of this year’s delegation.
USSSA President Justus Mugisha noted Uganda’s historic dominance in team size, but pointed out Kenya’s larger contingent this year.
“With our commitment to mass sport, Uganda has always presented the largest contingent on the continent. However, this year Kenya has about 1,800 athletes compared to Uganda’s 1,600. We must strengthen participation right from the primary level. It’s disappointing that we have only 11 primary schools competing. This should be the last time we have such low representation.”
Dr. Ogwel underscored government investment in sports infrastructure and urged discipline and strategy from the athletes.
“The government is prioritizing sports infrastructure to standardize Uganda’s sports. The secret to success is discipline. We must have a clear team strategy. I challenge the team to aim for the highest level of competition.”
Sammy Odong, Assistant Commissioner for Physical Education and Sports, emphasized the importance of early talent development.
“We will do whatever it takes to promote sports in primary schools because it is the foundation for success in secondary competitions. We are the defending champions, so let’s head to Kakamega with one mission to bring that trophy back home.”
This year’s games will feature: badminton, athletics, basketball 5×5, basketball 3×3, soccer, rugby 15s, rugby 7s, table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, hockey, lacrosse, cricket, netball, beach soccer, scrabble, beach volleyball, and chess.
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