Overview:
This year’s games featured teams from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), with sponsorship from Mchezo Limited, a Rwanda-based firm committed to advancing sports and technology in Africa.
14th East African Community – Inter Parliamentary Games:
- Basketball final: Uganda 53-52 Kenya
Ugandan parliamentarians triumphed in spectacular fashion, securing the men’s basketball title at the 14th edition of the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games (EAC-IPG) with a razor-thin 53-52 victory over hosts Kenya.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Indoor Arena in Makupa was a cauldron of tension and excitement as the two East African powerhouses locked horns in a pulsating final.
Uganda’s narrow one-point victory came down to grit, teamwork, and nerves of steel, earning them the coveted gold medal and the adoration of their jubilant fans.
Honourable battle on the court
Kenya’s Hon. Japheth Mokaya Nyakundi, MP for Kitutu Chache North, hailed his team’s valiant effort despite falling short of the ultimate prize.
“It was a display of prowess, style, and fitness on the court today. From the first whistle, the game was tight and nerve-wracking, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Although we fell short, this only fuels our determination to fight another day,” Nyakundi said after the match, which showcased the best of regional basketball talent.
Uganda’s captain, Hon. Mwine Mpaka, who represents Mbarara City South in the Ugandan Parliament, couldn’t hide his delight at reclaiming the gold medal but admitted Kenya’s relentless effort made it a challenging win.
“Kenyans gave us some real scares throughout the match,” Mpaka said, grinning. “But my teammates put up a spirited fight to ensure victory, and I couldn’t be prouder.” Hon. Mpaka also led Uganda’s scoring efforts with 12 points.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
The tightly contested game saw Uganda hold a slim 29-27 lead at halftime, winning the first two quarters 14-13 and 15-14, respectively.
Kenya stormed back in the third quarter with a 15-14 edge, setting up a tense final period that ended in a 10-10 draw.
Bungoma Senator David Wakoli stood out as the top scorer of the match, pouring in an impressive 16 points for Kenya.
Regional Integration and Spectator Thrills
Fans from across the East African region filled the KPA gymnasium with electric energy, and Ugandan supporters erupted in deafening cheers as the final whistle confirmed their team’s victory.
The EAC-IPG basketball tournament is part of a broader initiative to foster unity and integration among East African nations.
This year’s games featured teams from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), with sponsorship from Mchezo Limited, a Rwanda-based firm committed to advancing sports and technology in Africa.
Other Tournament Highlights
In earlier matches, Kenya secured dominant wins over Tanzania and Burundi with scores of 67-28 and 64-37, respectively, while Uganda overpowered Burundi 50-34 and earned a walkover against South Sudan.
In football, Uganda clinched gold with a stellar performance, while Tanzania beat Kenya 2-0 to secure silver in a thrilling evening match that was attended by The Kenya National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetangula among other dignitaries from Tanzania legislature.
Golf: Kenya and Uganda Shine
On the greens, Kenya’s men’s team dominated the leaderboard after the second round with 274 points, outpacing Uganda, who trailed at 238.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s women’s team maintained their grip on the top spot with 252 points, well ahead of Tanzania’s 94.
This golf event teed of on the well-manicured par 72 Nyali Golf club course.
What’s Next?
As the dust settles on the basketball court, the EAC-IPG Games continue to celebrate regional camaraderie through sportsmanship and talent, reminding everyone about the unifying power of sport.
Most Valuable Players (MVP) – Basketball:
- Men: Hon. Mwine Mpaka
- Women: Hon. Esther Matiko
