Cricket Uganda has taken a major step toward strengthening athlete protection and welfare with the launch of its first Safeguarding Task Force, following an inaugural meeting held in Kampala on Thursday.
The initiative aims to reinforce safe sport practices and ensure a cricket environment free from abuse, harassment, and misconduct.
The meeting brought together experts in sports administration, coaching, athlete welfare, psychology, and safeguarding.
The session was chaired by Cricket Uganda CEO Kabongerwa Evelyn, with technical leadership from an internationally recognised Safeguarding Trainee Cissy Byabaraire Musiime, the newly appointed Safeguarding Lead.
Cissy, who currently serves as Secretary of the Youth & Talent Identification Commission at the Uganda Olympic Committee, brings extensive experience from safeguarding awareness campaigns conducted under Olympic Solidarity and in partnership with Swans Sports Club, GameConnect, as stakeholders.
She acknowledged the Uganda Olympic Committee for its continued support in advancing athlete welfare.
Mandate of the Task Force
The Safeguarding Task Force has been assigned to develop, review, and implement safeguarding policies and systems that ensure a safe, respectful, and protective environment for all cricket participants.
Key Issues Discussed
During the meeting, members reviewed the purpose of the Task Force, existing safeguarding gaps, and the need for a dedicated National Federation Safeguarding Policy.
They also examined the status of governance documents, including the NF Constitution, and identified areas requiring urgent attention.
The Task Force agreed on roles and responsibilities, communication channels, and immediate priorities.
These include drafting safeguarding policies, conducting risk assessments, establishing reporting mechanisms, strengthening awareness and training, and enhancing collaboration with stakeholders.
A 30-day action plan will be drafted to guide the Task Force’s initial work.
Focus Areas Identified
• Safeguarding awareness and training
• Clear reporting and referral mechanisms
• Athlete mentorship and support
• Policy development
• Stakeholder collaboration
• Compliance and certification
• Capacity building
Looking Ahead
The Task Force is expected to play a central role in shaping athlete protection systems within Cricket Uganda.
Its work will include policy development, training, risk assessment, and ensuring compliance with national and international safe sport standards.
Safeguarding efforts aim to close existing gaps, promote a culture of openness, empower athletes, and create safe spaces across the cricket community.
Closing Remarks
Safeguarding Lead Cissy Byabaraire Musiime described the initiative as a turning point for Cricket Uganda:
“This Task Force represents an important milestone in our commitment to safeguarding. We are determined nationally to build systems that protect every athlete and uphold the integrity of sport.”