VOICED: Skate fans bring new sport to Uganda

Ugandan youths, led by Jackson Mubiru, built East Africa's first skate park in Kampala, funded by community efforts. The park serves as a safe haven for teenagers, offering an escape from drugs and crime while nurturing dreams of becoming professional skateboarders. The skateboarding culture promotes positive behavior changes and a structured environment. However, the future growth of this culture depends on external sponsorships, as the Uganda Skate Union seeks professional support to expand the sport nationwide.

What inspired Ugandan youths to build their own skate park?

• A local sports event

• Skateboarding tricks seen on television

• A government initiative

• A famous Ugandan skateboarder

Who was instrumental in raising funds for the construction of the skate park?

• An American professional skateboarder

• Gerald and Suga

• The Ugandan government

• Jackson Mubiru and his friends

What is one of the benefits of skateboarding for the youth in Kampala?

• It allows them to travel abroad

• It provides a source of income

• It guarantees a scholarship

• It helps them avoid drugs and crime

What is Gerald's aspiration as a skateboarder?

• To become a professional skateboarder and represent Uganda

• To design skateboards

• To open a skateboarding school

• To coach other skateboarders

What is the Uganda Skate Union currently seeking to promote skateboarding?

• More local volunteers

• Professional sponsors

• Government funding

• New skateboarding techniques