EALA this afternoon lost to the Parliament of Tanzania 0-1 at the KCCA Lugogo stadium. The regional legislators however sailed through to the semi-finals of the Inter-Parliamentary soccer games after leading the group with 3 points. The match was replayed after it was rained off yesterday at the Nakivubo Stadium. The pace was pulsating with each side making daring moves. Tanzania missed an opportunity to take the lead when Hon Amos Makalla’s shot rasped the cross-bar with EALA’s goalkeeper beaten.
Yusug Gogo finally scored for his side after connecting a pass from Mgullu Mchemba. Yesterday, Vision 2020 FC of Rwanda beat neighbours, Burundi National Assembly 2-0. The goals were scored by Hon Thierry Karemera and Hon Gallicon Niyongana in the first and the second half respectively.
As a result, Uganda who topped Group A are expected to face-off with Bunge FC of Kenya who were second in Group B. EALA, the leaders of Group B shall meet Vision 2020 FC of Rwanda in the semis scheduled for this afternoon.
In netball, the Parliament of Uganda beat EAC/EALA 37-8 points to lock out the regional legislators. The points for Uganda were scored by Hon Sarah Netasiire, Hon Elizabeth Namuhenge while Hon Judith Pareno and Petronilla Gibolo responded for EALA.
NOTE TO EDITORS
The EAC (EALA) mooted the idea of the liaising with other Parliaments through football in 2001. Then, EALA hosted a special tournament to mark the occasion of its establishment in Arusha, Tanzania.
However, it was not until November 2009 that EALA organised the initial Inter-Parliamentary football tournament. EALA has continued to organise the games as the co-ordinator and works closely with the hosting National Assembly/Parliament to ensure successful tournaments.
The EAC Speakers at their 4th Speakers’ Forum held in the same month agreed to have the Inter-Parliamentary games held on an annual and rotational basis. At the same time, the Speakers’ Forum urged all National Assemblies/Parliaments to have a permanent budget line for the tournament.
EALA has institutionalized the tournament in its calendar of activities. The tournament currently features football and netball. The opportunity is also used to hold other activities in the social, intellectual and political fields.
