Soroti to host 2026 National Disability Sports Gala for the first time
The national event, last hosted in Masaka City, will run from September 27 to October 4 at Soroti Sports Grounds under the theme: "Breaking Barriers, Building Champions."
Children with disabilities showcasing their talents in sitting volleyball during the recently concluded primary schools ball games in Mubende
Soroti will host the 2026 National Disability Sports Gala for the first time in the history of the championship.
The national event, last hosted in Masaka City, will run from September 27 to October 4 at Soroti Sports Grounds under the theme: "Breaking Barriers, Building Champions."
The eight-day competition is organized by the Uganda Paralympic Committee (UPC) in partnership with the National Council of Sports (NCS).
Patrick Synole, the Director of Administration at UPC, said Soroti was chosen because of the Teso sub-region's rich history in producing para-athletics talent.
He said the rotational tournament is intended to promote and showcase the growing para-sports talent in Uganda.
"We expect more than 400 athletes from every corner of Uganda to come together not just to compete, but to prove a point: that disability is not inability, and that sport belongs to everyone," he added.
Soroti District Sports Officer Richard Etidu said the district is ready to host the games.
Etidu noted that hosting the national event will boost local businesses, including shops, restaurants, boda boda transport and accommodation facilities. He added that athletes will be accommodated in nearby schools such as Pioneer Primary School and Soroti Secondary School for easy access to the venue.
Uganda Paralympic Committee President Bumali Mpindi said the championship seeks to promote talent among persons with disabilities.
"This championship is intended to create awareness about sports for persons with disabilities. It brings a sense of social inclusion and brings together partners and stakeholders to support persons with disabilities," Mpindi said.
According to Mpindi, athletes will compete in 17 disciplines, including Para Athletics, Goalball, Wheelchair Basketball, Para Volleyball, Boccia, Amputee Football, Para Rowing, Para Powerlifting, Para Swimming, Ludo, Scrabble, Chess, Para Archery, Showdown, Para Cricket, Wheelchair Rugby, Blind Football, Judo, Para Badminton, Table Tennis and Para Dance Sport.