Lack of equipment stalls talent development in Soroti

Despite government efforts to enhance grassroots talent identification, the lack of sports equipment remains a major setback for lower local governments, particularly in Soroti District.

According to Soroti District Sports Officer Richard Ekidu, the absence of basic athletics equipment severely limits efforts to identify and nurture young talent at the grassroots level.

“Our sports department is practically incapacitated due to a lack of equipment—especially for athletics. We cannot properly identify or train athletes without the necessary tools,” Ekidu said.

He revealed that Soroti District requires at least Shs1 billion to acquire quality sports equipment across various disciplines.

“Since its establishment in 1954, during the days of legendary high jumper Patrick Etolu, the Soroti District Sports Office has never had basic gear like a high jump mattress, proper running shoes, hurdles, or throwing implements. These deficiencies affect athletes’ speed, agility, and technique, which directly impacts performance,” he added.

The worn-out mattress used during athletics competitions in Soroti.PHOTO: Gabriel Esiku

Currently, the district relies on borrowing equipment from secondary schools whenever hosting district or national competitions.

Marriam Akello, a former 100-meter runner who competed in Soroti in the 1980s, echoed similar concerns.
“In 1986, I was among the athletes competing at the Soroti Sports Ground. Back then, we had all the necessary equipment. Today, it's disheartening to see that the district lacks even the basics,” she said.

Akello believes the problem stems from underfunding, calling on the government to increase financial support for district sports programs.

Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) President Dominic Otucet stressed that inadequate equipment particularly hinders talent discovery in schools and rural areas.

“Without appropriate equipment—especially in athletics—young talent is denied exposure to diverse sporting activities. This not only reduces opportunities for some demographics but also shrinks the pool of potential national athletes,” Otucet said.

He added that UAF is working towards supplying districts with essential sports gear, including high jump mattresses, electric timing systems, and throwing implements such as javelins, shot puts, discus, and hammers.

“Athletes training without a high jump mattress face serious injury risks, including broken bones, head trauma, or spinal injuries. It’s a major safety concern,” he warned.

Otucet also emphasized that inadequate equipment limits athletes’ potential to reach elite levels, thereby reducing their chances of securing scholarships, professional contracts, or competing in international events.

In a related development, the National Council of Sports has urged districts to allocate land for the construction of sports facilities, including stadiums, to support long-term development of sports infrastructure.