Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei has called for increased and sustained investment in athletics, saying timely financial and logistical support is critical to helping Ugandan athletes prepare and compete effectively on the international stage.
Cheptegei made the remarks during a reception hosted by Uganda’s Ambassador to Denmark and the Nordic and Baltic States, Margaret M. Otteskov, following his bronze medal in the men’s half marathon at the World Athletics Road Running Championships Copenhagen 2026.
The reception at the Uganda Embassy in Copenhagen brought together Cheptegei and other members of the Ugandan athletics team, with the Embassy recognising their performance and contribution to Uganda’s international sporting profile.
Ambassador Otteskov congratulated Cheptegei on behalf of the Government and people of Uganda, the Ugandan diaspora in Denmark and Embassy staff, commending his discipline, resilience and continued commitment to excellence.
She also recognised the contribution of Uganda Athletics, coaches and technical teams, sponsors, partners, the Ugandan diaspora and the Government of Uganda in supporting the country’s participation in international competitions.
Cheptegei thanked the Ambassador and the Embassy for hosting the team, but used the occasion to make a case for greater investment in athletics and the wider sports sector.
He said Uganda’s success in athletics provides the country with significant international exposure, arguing that sporting achievement can complement conventional efforts to promote tourism, investment and the country’s image abroad.
According to Cheptegei, when a Ugandan athlete succeeds at a major international championship, the national flag and the country are immediately placed before a global audience, generating visibility that would otherwise require substantial investment in international marketing.
He urged Ambassador Otteskov to continue advocating for increased support for athletes, particularly in preparation, logistics and other resources required to compete at the highest level.
Ambassador Otteskov said the international attention generated by Ugandan athletes complements the country’s tourism and investment promotion efforts by drawing attention to Uganda’s people, culture, natural attractions and economic opportunities.
She said Cheptegei’s performance in Copenhagen was particularly significant because it came before an international athletics audience and the Ugandan diaspora in Denmark and across the Nordic region.
“Your performance once again demonstrates Uganda’s ability to compete and excel on the global stage,” Ambassador Otteskov said.
She also encouraged young Ugandans to draw inspiration from Cheptegei’s career, saying discipline, sacrifice, hard work and faith can enable them to compete successfully at the highest level.
Ambassador Otteskov reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to recognising Ugandan athletes whose achievements contribute to the country’s international profile and inspire younger generations.
“May you continue to run with purpose, inspire generations and raise the Ugandan flag ever higher,” she said.
The Uganda Embassy in Copenhagen also congratulated Team Uganda, its technical staff, sponsors, partners and members of the Ugandan diaspora for their contribution to the country’s performance in Copenhagen.
