Uganda Olympic Committee Athletes Commission Pushes for Clean Sport and Life Skills

Elite athletes in Uganda are being urged to prioritize clean sport and understand the far-reaching consequences of doping, not just on their careers but also their health and reputation. The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) / Commonwealth Games Uganda (UOC/CGU) Athletes Commission organized a two-day National Athletes Workshop aimed at equipping competitors with essential life skills.

Anti-doping educator Leonard Were used the high-profile case of footballer Paul Pogba, who faced a ban for a prohibited substance found in a supplement, to illustrate the principle of strict liability. Were stressed that regardless of intent, athletes are responsible for any substance in their system. He advised athletes to always inform medical professionals of their status and seek written documentation for any prescribed medications or supplements to potentially support Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Local athletes shared their own experiences, highlighting the risks of unknowingly ingesting banned substances through over-the-counter medications used for quick recovery. The workshop also delved into the 11 Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) that athletes and their support personnel must be aware of, covering everything from sample refusal to possession and trafficking of prohibited substances.

Beyond anti-doping, the program addressed crucial topics such as financial literacy and sexual reproductive health. Athletes discussed managing their earnings, making informed spending decisions, recognizing health issues, and seeking appropriate medical care. The importance of protecting themselves against sexually transmitted infections was also underscored, particularly given the limited access to specialized health workers within sports teams.

UOC President Donald Rukare affirmed the committee’s commitment to preparing athletes for life after their sporting careers, recognizing the workshop’s success in meeting athletes’ expectations for education and skill enhancement. The event was spearheaded by the Athletes Commission, led by Shadir Musa Bwogi.