Otuke, Uganda | In an inspiring display of determination and raw talent, Otuke District’s Special Needs athletes have stormed into the spotlight after finishing 15th out of 89 districts at Uganda’s National Primary Schools Athletics Championships, held at Kigezi High Primary School in the country’s southwestern region.
The performance marks the highest finish for any district from Lango Sub-region, and shines a light on the power of inclusive sports to transform lives and communities.
Otuke’s delegation featured 46 athletes, including 20 children with special needs. Despite battling bitterly cold temperatures in Kabale, the team returned home with a total of six medals – 2 Gold, 2 Silver, and 2 Bronze – triggering widespread celebration across the northern district.
Standout Performers:
1. Akello Lydia (Okwang P7): 1 Gold, 1 Bronze.
2. Okello Edmond (Okwang P7): 1 Gold.
3. Ekemo Eddy Silas (Abilonyero P7): 1 Silver.
4. Ojok Isaac (Acanpii P7): 1 Silver.
5. Okello Stephen (Acane P7): 1 Bronze.
Francis Abola, Otuke District Chairperson, praised the athletes and coaches for putting Otuke on Uganda’s national sporting map.
But his praise came with criticism, as he called out the district’s education and sports department for failing to provide adequate support ahead of the tournament.
“…These children have achieved greatness despite little support. Imagine what they could do with proper investment…,” Abola stated.
Imat Lucy Acheng, the District Education Officer, hailed the team’s resilience and affirmed that the results send a clear message: “Disability is not inability.”
The district’s Sports Officer, James Obira, highlighted the importance of early talent development and thanked parents for trusting the process.
“…This is proof that grassroots sport can deliver national heroes…,” he said.
Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Patrick Onyek praised teachers and coaches for their mentorship, urging more families to embrace sport as a path to confidence and discipline.
Otuke’s breakthrough performance is now being seen as a rallying cry for improved funding, equal opportunity, and better structures for Special Needs athletes across Uganda and beyond.
Reporting by Haron Okwir | Dokolo Post Contributor – Otuke
