Sylvia Alinaitwe: NWSC chief urges Rukiga to make sports count
The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) deputy managing director for finance and corporate strategy, Sylvia Alinaitwe Tumuhairwe, has urged the people of Rukiga to invest in sports talent to reap from its immense potential.
Ms Alinaitwe, who was speaking at youth cup final at Bukiinda PTC playground in Rukiga District said the economy of sports is a global phenomenal.
“The reason I keep sponsoring sports is its contribution to the national economy," she said. "The fact the playgrounds are in place, owners pay taxes which boosts the economy."
In the final of the youth tournament she organised under her name, Nyakagabagaba edged Kashekye to claim the winner's Shs2 million purse and a medal.
They also walk away with sports gear, including a complete set of jersey and balls to equip their team.
The tournament started in January with all parishes across the subcounties involved, culminating in the exciting final on Saturday.
Kashekye were rewarded with Shs1 million cash prize.
Ms Alinaitwe expressed her delight in the success of the event, attributing it to "divine providence" after revealing the scheduling challenges prompted by personal circumstances.
She emphasized the significance of sports engagement in fostering economic prosperity and talent development within communities.
While officiating at the final match, Decolas Kiiza, deputy chief executive at the Federation of Uganda Football Association (Fufa), lauded Alinaitwe’s efforts and emphasised the importance of sports in steering youth away from negative influences.
He promised continued support for talent development in Rukiga, including training opportunities for referees, coaches, and administrators.
"I feel happy to see that we have stakeholders like Sylvia who can fully sponsor youth in championing football," Mr Kiiza said.
“Through Fufa, we shall keep giving our support to make sure that there is talent development among the youth.”
“Nyakagabagaba's win is a testament of the positive impact of sports in communities. With Sylvia’s leadership and Fufa’s support, young footballers in Rukiga have a promising future."
Kiiza commended the tournament, emphasizing its focus on talent identification and nurturing. He reiterated Fufa's commitment to supporting initiatives like the Ms Alinaitwe-organised tournament, which align with their agenda of talent development and youth empowerment.
