I know, I know. I’ve only just got here This is just day four, or is it five? But tomorrow I shall say goodbye to the Ugandan team to begin my journey home. This is because I could only take a week off work, and BA doesn’t have a flight on Saturdays. Also, and quite obviously, I am a lightweight. It is with deep regret that I have to leave the team, but I know that without me they will thrive and continue with what will surely be a very successful trip. And yes, I am sucking up to the rest of them, and this is because atow Jamie and John are drawing up the first set of fines for the trip.
Before I get fined for that airshot I mentioned yesterday, and failing to get lunch quickly enough, I thought I’d share my impressions of Soroti and the trip so far. This is because all reporting will become less reliable after I’m gone. (Obviously).
Soroti is a fantastic little town in Eastern Uganda. It’s colonial heritage is obvious. If the promised international airport does come then this will become a popular tourist destination. It’s an hour and a half from Mbale, and is desperate for investment and recognition. Cricket could become a big sport here. It already has a base, though it’s still very small. Janet Mbabazi, one of the most enthusiastic cricketers you could ever meet, was part of the Ugandan Under 19s when they won an East African tournament recently. There is also a potential cricket supremo in Peter Ojangole, who is the most driven, enthusiastic, well-organised and nice bloke you’ll ever meet. Every cricket board in the UK could do with a Peter, luckily for it, Soroti has him. He and his friend and coach Felix, who we didn’t get to meet, as well as local teacher and potential political boss Emmanuel, will surely maintain the momentum which we saw when 400 children and 60 teachers took part in today’s tournament.
As usual we leave a base with regrets. there are obvious questions that remain to be answered. Where will the schools get the kit which they desperately need to continue coaching and spreading the HIV/AIDS message? How much more support can the UCA, CWB, and other authorities give to ensure cricket’s growth in Soroti?
The answers lie with the teachers, the local academy, and the authorities in Uganda, but there must surely be room for help from other organisations in the UK too.
Rant over. I have loved it. Tim, Paul, Jamie, Emmanuel, Jackson, Wakamara & My roomie John, have been great travel companions. Good luck to them, and the legendary Joseph, our driver who has been educating me in Ugandan music when the others haven’t been paying attention.
Pic below of BBC’s Phil Mackie as judge and jury this evening.
Hi Phil sorry you have had to leave mid way the tour, but it was nice having you here and hopefully you will continue to be an ambassador for Uganda cricket. From the pics I can see you enjoyed the local larger. Travel safe and see you soon.