In an exclusive interview with NBS Sport Beats and Balls show, Patricia Ayebare, Commissioner of Youth and Mini Basketball at the Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA), unveiled ambitious plans to democratize basketball access across Uganda.
Ayebare emphasized the need to shift the basketball landscape from secondary schools to primary schools, slums, and rural areas, aiming to make the sport widely accessible. “Most of us encountered basketball in secondary school. I want to change that – to take the game to primary school, to the slums, upcountry. We want to make the game as accessible as possible,” Ayebare stated.
With a strategic approach and collaborative efforts, Ayebare believes this vision can be realized. She revealed plans to engage with partners willing to support the construction of basketball courts in communities, enhancing infrastructure for grassroots development.
“On paper, and strategically, I believe this can work. It’s a matter of knowing how to strategize and collaborate. I know a few partners willing to come on board and support the building of basketball courts in the communities,” she affirmed.
Since assuming office, Ayebare has been proactive in registering all basketball academies across Uganda, ensuring comprehensive coverage of talent development initiatives. “When I took over office, I made sure we registered all the academies available in Uganda,” she highlighted.
One of the key initiatives Ayebare unveiled is the FUBA Basketball Primary Schools League, set to launch in the second term and extend into the third term of the academic year. This league aims to provide a platform for primary school students to engage in competitive basketball and showcase their skills.
She also issued a reminder to primary schools to register for the league, with the deadline set for Saturday, April 6th.
Feature photo: Children taking part in the FUBA Mini Basketball League in 2023. (Courtesy Photo)
