Ugandan Athletes Welcome Tooke Nutrition Boost for Commonwealth Games

Ugandan athletes gearing up for the Commonwealth Games have received a significant boost in the form of nutritional products from “Tooke,” a local initiative by the Banana Industrial Research and Development Centre (BIRDC). The distribution, a collaboration between Commonwealth Games Uganda (CWG-U) and BIRDC, aims to support athletes during their crucial training period.

Tooke, primarily made from bananas, is recognized for its high energy and nutritional content. Reverend Professor Florence Isabirye Muranga, appointed as the nutrition ambassador for the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) and CWG-U, is spearheading this effort to improve athlete welfare.

Athletes received sample packages, with larger quantities to be provided based on their feedback and reviews. CWG-U president Donald Rukare emphasized that the products, including gluten-free porridge flour, are safe and compliant with anti-doping regulations. This nutritional support is particularly vital as athletes prepare for events where dietary control might be stricter, especially with modified Games Village arrangements.

Boxer Aziz Ringo expressed hope that Tooke will enhance his “knockout power,” while flyweight boxer Angel Katushabe noted its importance given the uncertainty of foreign meal provisions. Jane Asinde, a member of the women’s 3x3 basketball team, shared her excitement about trying the products and thanked the sponsors.

Shida Leni, a seasoned athlete and representative, highlighted the importance of proper nutrition for peak performance, stating, “Excellence on the track, in the ring or fields begins long before the competition. It begins with what they eat.”

Further promoting nutrition and discovering talent, BIRDC is also supporting the Olympic Day Tooke Run in Bushenyi. This event aims to raise awareness about nutritional care and support athletes, echoing the sentiment that good nutrition is fundamental to athletic success. Moses Kipsiro, a legend in Ugandan athletics, also believes such events are key to identifying emerging talent.

This partnership underscores a commitment to ensuring Ugandan athletes have the necessary resources to excel on the international stage.