Compete with courage, Muranga advises youth Olympians

Uganda’s team for this year’s Youth Olympic Games in Senegal has been advised to prioritize nutrition throughout their preparation, competition, and recovery.

Professor Florence I. Muranga, who leads the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development (PIBID) and serves as the Uganda Olympic Committee Nutrition Ambassador, shared this advice with the team at Lugogo on Monday.

Before the team left for the games, she gave them Tooke Sports Nutrition products to use in Dakar. This happened after NCS General Secretary Patrick Ogwel and UOC president Donald Rukare officially sent them off.

She also implored them to compete with courage, learn with curiosity, and return ready to inspire others.

“Follow the guidance of your coaches and qualified medical and nutrition teams, use the practical advice in this sports nutrition manual, and give proper attention to meals, hydration, and rest,” Muranga advised.

“The habits you develop today can support both your sporting ambitions and your lifelong well-being. Let this knowledge also inspire you to become champions of good nutrition among your fellow learners, families, and communities.”

She noted that through their Tooke nutrition legacy work, they aspire to connect the inspiration of sport with nutrition education and care for children and young people, especially those in vulnerable circumstances.

“Your example can help carry that message forward: every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, play, and pursue their potential.

“As you take your place in Dakar, remember that success extends beyond the medal podium. It is also found in personal improvement, fair play, resilience, and the encouragement you offer others,” she stated.

“Your selection reflects dedication, discipline, and perseverance. Compete with courage, integrity, and respect, knowing that your nation stands proudly behind you. Embrace the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect. Learn from one another, celebrate different cultures, and build friendships that will endure beyond the Games,” Muranga stated.

Rukare thanked Muranga for fuelling Ugandan sport through the customized products, while Ogwel said the partnership was a blessing but also a very good addition to national development. He said they will engage her to see how the products can be rolled to all the sports stakeholders.