Uganda’s National Council of Sports (NCS) General Secretary, Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, represented the country at the African Union Conference on Sustainable Sports Development in Djibouti, where he presented a bold vision for the continent’s sporting future.
The two-day workshop, organized by the African Union Commission (AUC), brought together Directors of Sports from 24 countries under the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 4.
Discussions centered on popularizing the AU’s political framework for sports development and strengthening cooperation among member states to build sustainable sports systems.
As AUSC Advisory Chair, Dr. Ogwel outlined the council’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan, highlighting priorities such as improving sports governance, investing in infrastructure, and promoting sport as a catalyst for unity, development, and social cohesion across Africa.

His presentation struck a chord, especially as Uganda continues to raise its profile in continental sport.
The country recently co-hosted the African Nations Championship (CHAN) with Kenya and Tanzania, an achievement that demonstrated East Africa’s growing ability to stage major events.
Uganda has also launched an ambitious program to develop sports infrastructure and nurture young talent, aiming to become a hub for future continental competitions.
The conference was officially opened by Djibouti’s Secretary of State for Sports, Hassan Mohamed Kamil, who commended African sports leaders for their commitment to sustainable growth.

Djibouti’s Sports Secretary-General, Khadija Ibrahim Idriss, described the gathering as “a significant milestone for Africa’s sports sector,” emphasizing the importance of shared strategies and mutual support among nations.