Tashobya Urges Team Uganda Athletes to Focus on Personal Improvement at Dakar 2026

National Council of Sports chairman Ambrose Tashobya has encouraged Ugandan athletes competing at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games to focus on improving their performances rather than solely pursuing medals. He emphasized that giving their best in competition is just as important as winning medals. Tashobya's remarks were made during a meeting with Team Uganda at the Games Village in Diamniadio.

Tashobya highlighted the challenges of competing at the international level, where hundreds of athletes vie for just three medals in each event. He noted that judging success solely by medal count would be unrealistic, as it would mean that over 95 percent of athletes would not be considered successful. Instead, he urged the athletes to focus on their personal bests and use their experiences in Dakar as a stepping stone for future improvement.

The meeting with Tashobya was attended by team captains Joseph Sebatindira and Zara Marie Mbanga, as well as other team officials, including chef de mission Lydia Gloria Dhamuzungu and safeguarding officer Patricia Ayebare. Tashobya reminded the athletes that their selection to represent Uganda was a recognition of their abilities and encouraged them to take note of their performances in Dakar.

Tashobya also discussed sports development in Uganda, citing the government's investments in football, rugby, athletics, and indoor sports facilities. However, he acknowledged that some disciplines, such as competitive swimming, still face challenges due to inadequate infrastructure, including the absence of a standard 50-metre swimming pool.

The NCS chairman mentioned plans to develop sports facilities at Hoima and Akii-Bua stadiums, as well as universities like Makerere, Gulu, and Lira. He also mentioned the possibility of establishing regional sports academies, starting with Hoima. These initiatives aim to improve Uganda's sports infrastructure and provide athletes with better training facilities.

Badminton coach William Kabindi called for increased support to sports federations and coaches, emphasizing the need for consistent training and proper preparation to improve Uganda's performance at international competitions. Tashobya responded by highlighting the importance of long-term training and repetition in achieving success at major events.

Tashobya also encouraged the young athletes to balance their sporting careers with education, advocating for the concept of a "student athlete." He expressed his confidence that all of them could pursue degrees while continuing to develop their athletic skills. Uganda's participation in the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games continues, with athletes competing in events like swimming, cycling, and athletics.

Key points

• NCS chairman Ambrose Tashobya advises Ugandan athletes to prioritize personal bests over medal count at Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.