The General Manager Kampala Water, Eng. Mahmood Lutaaya, backed by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation-Headquarters Top Management led by the Director Human resources, Ms. Eunice Alanyo, hosted a spectacular inaugural NWSC Health and Fitness Fiesta on Saturday, July 6th, 2024 at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology (UICT), that left everyone buzzing with energy and excitement. The event, characterized by a dynamic blend of Zumba, engaging board games, informative health desks, and a thrilling football league, proved to be quite the huge success.
The day kicked off with an invigorating Zumba session led by the Imara Concepts Team. This was easily the fan-favorite. The lively beats and rhythmic moves had everyone on their feet, shaking off the week’s stress and kick-starting their metabolism. The session was too good, it was run twice and it saw almost everyone participate, but the spotlight was on the Directors who owned the show, and danced like nobody was watching. Managers and other staff, shaking their bodies and waving their hands in the air, like they just didn’t care. Colleagues from all departments moving in sync, laughing, and encouraging each other. It was a sight to behold.
Following the high-energy start, the focus shifted to more cerebral activities with a series of board games, Otyo, 30 Seconds, Nursery Rhyme School Competitions, and so much more. These were carefully selected to promote strategic thinking and team collaboration. Teams huddled over games of chess, Scrabble, Ludo, Snakes & Ladders, and came up with a nursery school rhyme in a singing face off. One would have thought laughter was part of the competitions too, you know.
As was in order, there was a team building session which was characterized by a number of activities in teams, with the aim of fueling team work. There were trust exercises, balloon games, water games and so much more.
Only the strongest, and most coordinated team won.
Which was clearly depicted during the tag of war segment. The Tug of War session was loomed over by intensity and drama akin to old rivalry. Team Blue and Team Zebra, reminiscent of the storied clashes between football giants, brought their A-game to the battleground. Like Arsenal and Manchester United in their prime, these teams exchanged victories with relentless determination. Team Blue, a powerhouse to be feared, dominated the session with sheer strength and strategy. Despite the presence of Senior Director Engineering Services, Director-HR, Chief Manager-HR, the Directors for Planning and Capital Development and Senior Manager-CEZ on Team Zebra, they found no mercy from the unyielding force of Team Blue. Each tug and pull showcased Team Blue’s superior cohesion and resilience, leaving Team Zebra grasping for answers. In this session of the Tug of War, Team Blue left a permanent mark, proving their supremacy.
Throughout the day, health desks were strategically placed around the venue, offering invaluable insights into various aspects of health and wellness. The Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC), and Victoria Hospital took lead on this, with Expert nutritionists, First Aid, and mental health professionals on hand to provide personalized advice. Employees took advantage of these resources, and hopefully gained knowledge about maintaining a healthy balanced life between work, home and one’s personal time. Honestly, the health desks became popular spots for gathering information and setting new personal wellness goals.
Then there was the eagerly anticipated football league. All teams had been practicing, and their dedication was evident on the field. The matches were fiercely competitive yet friendly. Yes, even the one between Nakawa and Najja despite depicting the most tension on the field.
Game One: WPD-Hippos 0 : 0 SSD-Rhinos A tightly contested affair saw WPD-Hippos and SSD-Rhinos play out a goalless draw. The match was characterized by solid defensive displays from both sides, with few clear-cut chances created. Sserumaga received a yellow card, adding a bit of spice to an otherwise evenly matched game.
Game Two: Nakawa-Cheetahs 1 : 0 Najja-Lions The Nakawa-Cheetahs secured a narrow victory over the Najja-Lions, courtesy of a well-taken goal by Isaac. Onesmas provided the crucial assist, showcasing excellent vision and precision. The game also saw disciplinary actions with Adima receiving a yellow card and Kaweesi being sent off with a red card.
Game Three: Kyengera Antelopes 2 : 1 Bwaise Alligators Kyengera Antelopes emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Bwaise Alligators. Richard and Kenneth found the back of the net for Kyengera, assisted by Jonathan and Sulum respectively. Despite a valiant effort from Bwaise, marked by a goal from Owino, the Alligators fell short, unable to overcome the Antelopes’ attacking prowess.
Game Four: Katosi Jaguars 1 : 1 Mukono Eagles Intrigue loomed over this match as the Katosi Jaguars and Mukono Eagles shared the spoils. Lambert scored for the Jaguars, but an own goal from Katosi handed Mukono Eagles an equalizer.
Game Five: HQ Bulldogs 0 : 2 Jinja Road Black Panthers Jinja Road Black Panthers put on a commanding performance to defeat HQ Bulldogs with a 2-0 scoreline. Goals from Kigenyi and Silver, both assisted by GM-Lutaaya, sealed the victory. Silver’s performance was a mix of brilliance and recklessness, as he also received a yellow card during the match.
To sum it up, the League effortlessly delivered excitement and drama with each match. The standout performance in this first leg came from Jinja Road Black Panthers, whose clinical finishing and solid teamwork earned them a convincing win over HQ-Bulldogs. Meanwhile, Nakawa-Cheetahs demonstrated resilience and tactical acumen to edge past Najja-Lions in a closely fought encounter.
Kyengera Antelopes’ attacking duo of Richard and Kenneth proved too hot to handle for Bwaise Alligators, who despite Owino’s efforts, couldn’t match the Antelopes’ firepower. The goalless draw between WPD-Hippos and SSD-Rhinos simply depicted the defensive strengths of both teams, while Katosi Jaguars and Mukono Eagles showcased the unpredictable nature of football with a hard-fought draw.
Reflecting on the event, it was clear that the Health and Fitness Programme did more than just promote physical activity. The corporation is undeniably promoting a culture of elevated teamwork, staff satisfaction, productivity, and morale.
With such a turn up for the 1st Edition, there’s no doubt that the 2nd Edition slated for August, 3rd, 2024 will gain more anticipation. A new standard has been set and this will go a long way in creating a happier, healthier workplace.
