By Lubulwa Edrine
President Yoweri Museveni has officially signed the National Sports (Amendment) Bill 2024 into law.
The Presidential Press Unit (PPU) confirmed on a Tuesday press release that the President assented to the bill on Monday, January 27, 2025, after it was passed by Parliament on December 19th, 2024, with revised provisions of the National Sports Act, Cap. 151 relating to anti-doping with the World Anti-Doping Code.
The newly enacted law addresses the need to align Uganda’s legal framework with the World Anti-Doping Code and the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport.
The amendment was crucial, as non-compliance with international anti-doping standards could have resulted in Uganda being banned from participating in international sports competitions.
WADA had previously found provisions of Uganda’s National Sports Act inadequate, warning that failure to address these shortcomings could result in a ban on Ugandan athletes from international competitions.
Hon Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Sports, who tabled the bill before Parliament had emphasised that Uganda risked losing hosting rights for high-profile events like the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) if immediate action was not taken.
What is inside the National Sports (Amendment) Law?
The signed National Sports (Amendment) Bill 2024 introduces four significant clauses designed to modernize Uganda’s approach to anti-doping:
Expanded Definition of Doping: Clause 1 amends the definition of doping to encompass any violation of Article 2 of the World Anti-Doping Code.
Independence of the National Anti-Doping Organization: Clause 2 establishes the independence of the National Anti-Doping Organization, protecting it from external influence regarding its duties, recruitment, and remuneration of staff.
Timely Publication of Anti-Doping Standards: Clause 3 mandates the publication of international anti-doping standards promptly following their adoption or amendment by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Strict Prohibition and Penalties: Clause 4 prohibits athletes and other individuals from using, administering, or trafficking banned substances or methods in sports. Offenders face penalties outlined by the World Anti-Doping Code.
According to the Minister for Education and Sports, First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni the new law sends a strong message about Uganda’s commitment to clean and fair sports.
“The alignment with international anti-doping norms is expected to safeguard Uganda’s reputation on the global sports stage. It will also provide a transparent and standardized framework for athletes and sports administrators to follow, boosting compliance and fostering healthier competition environments.”
The President’s assent to the National Sports (Amendment) Bill 2024 reinforces Uganda’s position as a key player in international sports while setting a high standard for sports integrity and governance.
