Museveni signs Sports Bill, 2024 into Law
PPU says the bill, which Parliament passed on December 19, 2024, received the President’s assent on January 27, 2025
KAMPALA, January 29, 2025 –– President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has signed the National Sports [Amendment] Bill, 2024, into law, according to the Presidential Press Unit [PPU].
PPU says the bill, which Parliament passed on December 19, 2024, received the President’s assent on January 27, 2025.
The legislation addresses critical gaps in Uganda’s anti-doping framework, aligning it with the World Anti-Doping Code and ensuring the independence of the National Anti-Doping Agency [NADA].
This move comes after the World Anti-Doping Agency [WADA] flagged Uganda’s existing regulations under the National Sports Act, 2023, as non-compliant, threatening to ban Ugandan athletes from participating in international competitions.
The amendments explicitly enshrine the independence of NADA, insulating it from domestic interference.
Additionally, the law formally adopts the World Anti-Doping Code, bringing Uganda into full compliance with its obligations under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport, which the country ratified in 2007.
The swift enactment of this legislation safeguards Uganda’s hosting rights for major international tournaments such as CHAN and AFCON and ensures Ugandan athletes remain eligible to compete in international sports competitions.
Implications of the Bill
Independence of NADA: A new clause ensures NADA operates free from any external direction or control.
Appointment and Remuneration: NADA staff and directors will be appointed and compensated according to internal regulations set by the Minister of Sports.
Alignment with WADA Standards: Uganda must promptly publish international anti-doping standards in widely circulated media following WADA updates.
The National Sports Amendment Bill now awaits presidential assent to become law, ensuring Uganda complies with WADA’s standards and remains a contender in global sports.
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