PWD Athletes Encouraged as Soroti Hosts Uganda Paralympic Games this September.

By Peterson Hiirya.

SOROTI CITY — Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Soroti and the wider Teso region are preparing to showcase their sporting talent this September, as the district gears up to host the Uganda Paralympic Games.

The announcement was made by Stephen Olebe,Soroti District Speaker , who called on caregivers, parents, and PWDs to actively participate in the nationwide event.

Olebe said the games will feature 24 sports disciplines, including wheelchair races, football for the blind, netball for girls with disabilities, athletics events such as 100m, 2,000m, and 5,000m races, wheelchair basketball, and scramble.

Winners will receive medals, and the best performers will form a national team to represent Uganda internationally.

“This is a long-awaited opportunity for all of us. I urge all persons with disabilities to come forward, stay healthy, and show what they can do. Participants must reduce alcohol intake, maintain fitness, and take this opportunity seriously,” Olebe said.

The Uganda Paralympic Games will draw participants from specialized schools, local communities, and NGOs supporting PWDs. Schools already targeted include St. Francis School for the Blind (nursery and primary) and Ngora School for the Deaf, among others.

Community participants of all ages are welcome, provided they are able to perform in the sporting disciplines. NGOs working with PWDs are also encouraged to register their members.

Local sub-county leaders will coordinate registrations, which will then be compiled into district teams for competition. Olebe emphasized that participants should come forward from all villages and towns, encouraging everyone to be part of the district team.

The games are scheduled to run for two weeks, starting with athletic assessments in the first two days, followed by competitions. Local schools have been requested to provide accommodation and classrooms to host athletes from across Uganda.

Olebe highlighted the importance of the event in promoting inclusion and talent development for PWDs. “We do not know what God has planned for us.

This is a chance to shine, earn medals, and represent Uganda nationally and internationally,” he concluded.

The Uganda Paralympic Games in Soroti are expected to bring together athletes from across the country, highlighting the abilities of PWDs and promoting greater visibility and inclusion in sports.