David Rudisha, the 800 metres sprint “King is Back”. Rudisha led a number of athletes including another comeback Vivian "Pocket Rocket" Cheruiyot in bagging medals as Kenya made news in Beijing, China this week, putting the East African nation back on the athletics world map.
As Kenya’s athletes continued firing from all cylinders, their famous victories also caught the eye and attention of EALA at its sitting in Kampala, Uganda this afternoon as it moved a Motion for Resolution to support the East African Athletes from the Republic of Kenya at the on-going World Athletics Championships in Beijing.
The Resolution appreciated that Kenya had taken the lead in the Beijing games having amassed a total of 11 medals, 6 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze.
"Our East Africans of Kenyan origin need to be commended for their exemplary performance to uplift the name of Kenya in particular and the EAC region in general in World Athletics Championship," Hon Ngoga said.
Hon Ngoga said it was necessary for the EAC to collectively take pride when one of its own (Partner States) excels. There is some excitement this year out of the games. Each medal Kenyans win is out of their sweat", Hon Ngoga added. “We need to recognize the prowess and mention that they are inspiring the young persons", he added.
The Resolution further urges the EAC Council of Ministers to implore Partner States to provide more funding and establish the state of art facilities which if done, will enable EAC athletes to enhance their skills and dominance at the world stage.
EALA also resolves that EAC Partner States should protect sports personalities especially the females who are prone to different forms of abuse.The Resolution recognizes that culture and sports play a key role in the existence and survival of the communities, particularly for social cohesion, solidarity, stability and identity.
This is further anchored by Article 19 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the EAC which obliges Partner States to promote close co-operation amongst themselves in culture and sports with respect to promotion and enhancement of diverse sports activities. It also underscores the development of mass media programmes on matters that will promote the development of culture and sports within the Community.
During debate, Hon Dr James Ndahiro termed the Resolution timely and that it was further in line with the enactment of the Culture and Creative Industries Bill, 2015 passed by the Assembly at the Sitting.
Hon Leonce Ndarubagiye said athletes were indeed the pride of Africa. Hon Mumbi Ngaru said sports was key and mentioned that integration was on-going through sports. "The EAC Military Games are on-going here in Kampala, Uganda this week and it is in order that I applaud all participants", she said.
Hon Susan Nakawuki noted that She-Cranes (Uganda) had also performed well in the Netball World Cup as was a number of athletes from Republic of Uganda. She called on the EAC Partner States to establish rigorous infrastructure to effect anti-doping measures in the industry.
Hon Mike Sebalu said it was time for the EAC to associate with the celebrities and icons of the region and in that way create awareness. Hon Sarah Bonaya said the rest of the Partner States could learn from the successes of Republic of Kenya who have invested heavily in athletics and sports.
Hon Abdullah Mwinyi rooted for grassroots’ support. “It is of critical importance as we broaden base of talent and opportunities at all levels. The EAC can think about a further competition. I commend them for organizing debates. Let us have athletics for example also done.” he said.
He lauded Julius Yego, the gold winner of Javelin who threw 92.72 metres, setting a new continental and national record. The Gold winner picked up interest from YouTube videos. "This is a devastating example of technology allied with determination," he said.
With the Resolution, the Speaker of EALA, Rt. Hon Daniel F. Kidega adjourned the Assembly Sine die (Indefinitely).
At the Session, EALA passed at total of 6 Reports, 1 Bill, 3 Resolutions and deferred another Bill. The Assembly also administered the Oath to the incoming Counsel to the Community as an ex-officio of EALA
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