Issue 008 | July - December 2020 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in

Joshua Cheptegei became the 10th man to hold the 5000m and 10,000m world record concurrently while youthful Jacob Kiplimo (R) made history at the Championships in Gdynia

Cheptegei, Kiplimo dominated the world in the men’s elite races

Silverbacks thrive despite year of adversity

National Council of Sports (NCS) is a statutory organ of government with the mandate to develop, promote and control sports in Uganda GOLF ADMINISTRA- TION Uganda ‘opens’ offer fitting Obua represents, climax to hope and vision for season sports in Uganda.

CRICKET Eliite leagues help cricket RUGBY emerge from COVID-19 Heathens crowned league champs in Covid struck season.

KABADI Kabadi, introduced in 2018, is now looking at developing grassroots to emerge as one of Uganda’s household sports

FOOTBALL

Uganda Cranes’ Road to Qatar 2022 World Cup

BASKETBALL Silverbacks impressed in first qualification window. ALL SPORT Dark Year for sport NCS Magazine Editorial

EDITOR’S WORD Lessons of perseverance in Sports

Issue 008 | July - December 2020 | FREE For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda e are excited that beaten the odds to complete their became the 10th man to hold the 5000m and 10,000m world record concurrently while youthful Jacob we are on the 8th sports calendar events and hold Kiplimo (R) Made history at the World Athletics Half Marathon issue of the NCS Championships in Gdynia a number of sports programmes Cheptegai, Kiplimo were W victors in the Magazine and still counting! with the support of the government men’s elite races Uganda has never run short of through National Council of Sports. amazing sporting stories of the Nevertheless, we celebrate exceptional performances of our every opportunity sports has been SILVERBACKS THRIVE DESPITE sportsmen and women and the accorded to take place despite the YEAR OF ADVERSITY The National Council of Sports (NCS) is a statutory Organ of government NCS Magazine is a great platform to threats of COVID-19. In 2021, we with the mandateto develop, promote and control sports in Uganda bring you these sports adventures in are optimistic that the goals we MAIN PICTURE: Dovic Daizy Nassuna different sports disciplines both at have set before us will be achieved. Joshua Cheptegei became the @DaizyDovic the local and international scenes. The onus is on us to make the next 10th man to hold the 5000m This edition is all about year a success. and 10,000m world record perseverance in sports and it gives Stay Safe concurrently an account of how National Sports DOVIC DAIZY NASSUNA SECOND PHOTO: Issue 01 | October 2018 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda Association/Federations have INFORMATION OFFICER Youthful Jacob Kiplimo made Magazine history winning the World

InsIght - Pg.4 The First Lady says sporting Athletics Half Marathon excellence is something we should be passionate about Championships in Gdyna eac games - Pg.15 Uganda dominates inaugural Games in Bujumbura, Burundi THIRD PHOTO:

Issue 003 | March 2019 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda Uganda’s national basketball team Silverbacks, are one win away from their third Afrobasket qualification

rugby She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball Fleet-footed team has proved that despite the odds, they are determined to bag more medals. gem speaks out Soccer Eyes on the prize

Issue 004 | Apr - Jun 2019 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda eDITORIAL TEAM NATIONAL SPORTS FORUM

Another important Issue 005 | Jul - Sept 2019 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda step forward, says Publisher: National Council of Sports (NCS) Hon Bakkabulindi Plot 2-10, Coronation Avenue,

After a 20-year 2019 AFCON hiatus, Uganda P.O. Box 20077, Lugogo, Uganda ends got two bombers a 41-year of absence from into the final Issue 006 | October - December 2019 | FREE COPY For All the latest sports news & dev’t projects in Uganda Afcon Dovic Daizy Nasuuna (+256782429925) Pg. 18 Editor : knockout. Copy-Editor : Makhtum Muziransa Contributors: David Namunyala, Katongole Kiwanuka, Nakaayi rewrote history in 800m Faith Kiai, Elvis Senono, Silvano Kibuuka, Brian Kawalya, Uganda won the first medal of the Beach Pg. 20 Woodball World Cup as the women Uganda’s U18 girls win clinched Gold but in the end the team settled for Silver in the overall standings the 2019 FIBA 3X3 Skipper Cup Emanzi Ndyamuhaki, Sharipha Namagoba, Darren Allan Nalukenge Pg. 18 led the U-17 side to the Kyeyune, Dennis Bbosa, Swaib Raul Kanyike, Abdul Cosafa title Pg. 12 Nasser Ssemugabi, Makhtum Muziransa, Johnson Were, Issue 007 | January - June 2020 | FREE COPY For all the latest sports news & development projects in Uganda James Bakama, Charles Mutebi, Ismail Kezaala, Mark Namanya, Ivan Niwamanya, Philip Mugabi. Design & Layout: Ronald Muyimba (+256772865185) PRINTING: RM TECHNOLOGIES & PRINTERS LTD. Cheptegei wins the Men’s 10,000m final at the 2019 IAAF Cheptegei wins the Men’s World Championships 10,000m final at the 2019 IAAF Pg. 18 World Championships Pg. 18

Copyright © 2020. We are NCS Magazine

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or New Council, New Chapter transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever without express written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.3 Please refer all pertinentJul - questions Dec 2020 to the publisher. NCS Magazine Foreword THE THREATS OF COVID-19 STILL EXIST, LET US CONTINUE STAYING SAFE JANET kataha MUSEVENI First Lady and Minister he large part of 2020 IN, OUT: of Education and Sports has been marked with Joshua the outbreak of the Cheptegei COVID-19 pandemic celebrates Tand the many challenges that victory in the catapulted. As such, many sectors Men’s 5000 across the country are finding metres during ways to remain resilient amid the the Herculis government restrictions that are meant to prevent the rapid spread of EBS Monaco the pandemic. 2020 Diamond However, it is not all doom and League meeting gloom, as sports has weathered the at Stade Louis Half Marathon in among others successes in storm. Our athletes are adapting and II on August 14, basketball, football and elsewhere. thriving in the sports arena. 2020 in Monaco, And now with the resumption of sports, let us embrace With the intervention of new strategic approaches that will enable sports to adapt Monaco. government, In the different fields, to a significantly different operating environment and be the sports sector continued and reminded to always take precaution and preventative registered outstanding rare victories measures as we practise sports. and achievements, which has made Let us keep trusting in God in all things we do as Uganda more competitive than reminded in Philippians 4:13 that ‘I can do all things ever before. Joshua Cheptegei set through Christ who strengthens me.’ two World Records first in 5000m I believe we shall witness a much better 2021. and later in the 10,000m and FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY also Jacob Kiplimo won the World EMBRACING CHANGE We have come through a very challenging year and also to forge a way forward to embracing the 2020, a year when the world was struck and got changes that come with managing sports amid paralyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Uganda was the threats of the coronavirus while preparing to not spared the attendant effects of this pandemic transition to the next year that will be filled with a with its economy declining leading to change in the number of sporting activity. national priorities. Moving forward, we shall continue to engage This significantly affected sports funding from with higher authorities and the private sector government as well as affecting other sports to support sports development initiatives and HON. Hamson Denis Obua programmes that had been aligned to take place programmes. As the ministry and government, we State Minister for Sports this year. have the responsibility of creating enabling policies, However, all was not lost in the year as the country legislative and operations environment for sports registered a number of sporting victories and development in the country, while the National also we went back to the drawing table, working Sports Federations have the primarily responsible together with different stakeholders to devise new for implementation of sports development strategies to ensure sports continues to thrive long programmes relevant to their sports disciplines, into the future. and for supporting implementation of all other Together with National Council of Sports we have sports disciplines as part of a holistic sporting held several virtual engagements with leaders development. of National Sports Associations/Federations In the coming new year, we recharge our energies throughout the year to deliberate on issues and move forward. 4 Jul - Decpertaining 2020 to sports development of this country NCS Magazine Foreword NCS provided COVID-19 relief

he year 2020 was members as well as ensuring their Cheptegei at the full of challenges and active participation in the various in Monaco, the commendable team opportunities arising ongoing processes. This shall performance in the World Athletics from the corona continue going forward. Half marathon championships in virus (COVID-19) Following the adoption of the Gdynia, the Afro basket qualifier in Tpandemic that continues to ravage standard operating procedures Alexandria , the Uganda Elite the country. Notwithstanding this, (SoPs) relating to resumption of League and the CHAN competition we were able to register a number sports, sports was permitted to in Cameroon. Support to the 26 DR DONALD RUKARE National Council of of achievements over the last six resume with conditions such as athletes that have qualified for the Sports (NCS) Chairman months. We have been able to regular testing as well as holding Tokyo 2020 Olympics was provided transition to operating virtually events outdoors. As a result some and COVID-19 relief was provided to with our committees and council sports activities like the football national sports associations as well. meetings being held online. As a league have resumed albeit the issue We remain committed to supporting result we held all the scheduled of the high cost of COVID-19 testing. our various national teams despite meetings which ensured that our The Government of Uganda through financial constraints. operations were not curtailed. the Minister of Education and Sports During the last six months we We held online engagements with and First Lady Honourable Janet K. continue to reach out to various our 51 national associations as well. Museveni will cater for the testing stakeholders such as Ministry of We inter alia had consultations on costs of national teams. This is Finance and Economic Planning, the proposed funding guidelines, appreciated and will go a long way Parliament of Uganda, Rotary the COVID-19 standard operating to ensure that our teams are able to Uganda, UNDP, the media as well as procedures as well as holding the take part in various competitions. attending activities of our members National Sports Forum which is Support was provided to our such as the Federation of Motor convened by the Minister of State national teams that participated Sports Uganda (FMU). Through for Sports, Honourable Hamson in various national, regional and these interactions we are exploring Obua. Through these engagements international competitions. Of various pathways of supporting we were able to ensure that there note were, the World recording sport development in Uganda. was sharing of information with our setting performances of Joshua THE FUTURE PRESENTS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR SPORTS TO THRIVE

2020 has been about reflecting, engaging, Olympics only but also at other national, regional learning and revitalisation. and international sporting platforms that are lined A time to adapt to the new normal of doing things up next year. and transcend the biggest upset of 2020 that National Council of Sports has also extended presented limitations to our sports persons to take modest funds to National Sports Associations and part in sports as a result of cancellation of several Federations to specifically help mitigate the adverse sports events both locally and internationally. impact of Covid-19 on the operations of National As such, the bulk of the sporting activities have Sports Associations to acquire Personal Protective Dr Bernard PATRICK Ogwel been postponed to 2021, but nevertheless, we find Equipment for the safety of athletes and technical National Council an opportunity for the sector to triumph and our officials. of Sports (NCS) sportsmen and women are vigorously preparing and Sports has again taught us how to tackle the General Secretary training for the 2021 season which has the biggest difficult situations life has presented us as a team. highlight of sports-the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. We believe in 2021, working together as sports National Council of Sports has provided the stakeholders, we will be more energised, focused qualified athletes with financial support to facilitate and steadfast to maximising opportunities for all training as we look towards having more athletes, Ugandans to participate and excel in sports. qualify for the Olympics-We expect the best Happy new year. performances from our athletes not limited to the

Jul - Dec 2020 5 NCS Magazine ADMINISTRATION

GOT YOUR BACK: Government, through National Council of Sport (NCS), also supported the national basketball team Silverbacks during the first window of the AfroBakset qualifiers in Egypt.

Government keeps sports afloat in 2020

he past six months have perhaps been the most challenging sports has ever faced with the country going into lockdown in March 2020. There were however a few major Tglobal sporting events that still took place with government playing a major role in ensuring Ugandan athletes took part. Joshua Cheptegei turned out to be the biggest beneficiary after breaking the world 5000m and 10000m records. To achieve that, government softened its stance to allow Cheptegei, Halima Nakaayi, Winnie Nanyondo and Stephen Kissa travel to for the Monaco Diamond League back in August. And with commercial air travel experiencing major restrictions globally because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government’s intervention through 15-year old 10,000m world record in a time of 26 WORTH THE the sports ministry was a huge contributing factor for minutes 11.00 seconds in Valencia by more than six HYPE: The the athletes to reach France. seconds on October 08. Silverbacks are now one It is there that Cheptegei posted a remarkable time Ugandan sport experienced another high point in game away from a third of 12:35.36 at 60.43 seconds per lap to break the October with Jacob Kiplimo winning the World half straight AfroBasket 5000m world record by almost two seconds. marathon title in a championship record of 58:49 in appearance. Buoyed by that success, Cheptegei then went after the Polish city of Gdynia. another Bekele record smashing the Ethiopian’s Government, through National Council of Sport

6 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine ADMINISTRATION

ALWAYS LENDING A HAND: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has since time immemorial ensured top athletes get the support and recognition they deserve to continue conquering the world.

(NCS), supported the national basketball team Silverbacks during the first window of the AfroBakset qualifiers in Egypt. The Silverbacks are now one game away from a third straight AfroBasket appearance. Government also fully facilitated the Cranes for their Afcon qualifier double header against South over the past three months. The sports ministry in September also sent a supplementary budget to parliament to bridge the gap created by the shs8bn deficit created earlier in the year because of the effect of COVID-19. The sports ministry was also able to hold the fifth INDOMITABLE: Joshua Cheptegei, wearing a Uganda national flag on his National Sports Forum and second this financial year shoulders, poses for pictures next to the timer screen after breaking the world in December. record in the men’s 5000metre event during the Diamond League Athletics The forum organized by National Council of Sports Meeting at The Louis II Stadium in Monaco (NCS) is a quarterly statutory meeting meant to help the sports ministry liaise with fellow sports administrators to draw strategies for developing the sector. At the meeting, Minister of State for Sport Hamson Obua gave an update on the sports funding policy that awaits feedback/guidance from the auditor general through solicitor general. The minister also gave the green light to the newly formed Association of Sports Federations and Associations of Uganda, created to lobby for more funds into sport for as long as it amplified the parental body NCS’s efforts. “As long as the association is meant to galvanise support in order for you to raise where you belong, in NO AGE LIMIT: Jacob Kiplimo celebrates his world record of 7 minutes and this case all these associations belong to NCS, to me 26.64 seconds after winning the men’s 3000m competition at the it is okay. Pietro Mennea IAAF Diamond League athletics meet in .

Jul - Dec 2020 7 NCS Magazine aTHLETICS

scale global heights on the track

iddle distance runners Joshua Cheptegei and his younger compatriot Jacob Kiplimo scored the best grades on the track. In a period when everyone was more focused on making it through Ma COVID-19 ravaged period, the pair flew Uganda’s flag higher than ever before with unforgettable performances. Cheptegei managed to set three world records over the 5km, 5000m and 10000m. The feat was one that lifted spirits back home and all over the world. His exploits With the athletics world glued on television sets On October 7, Cheptegei crossed the finish line with the clock at 12:35.36 to break Kenenisa Bekele’s 5,000m long standing record at the Monaco Diamond League meeting. He once again beat a Bekele world record - set in 2005 - taking 6.53 seconds off his 10,000m. It was the last of his three outings this year that resulted in a world record. In Gdynia, Cheptegei lined-up for the 21km as one of the favourites in a field of 117 men but it was Kiplimo who ran the race of his life. The 19 year old claimed Uganda’s first medal at the championships ahead of ’s Kibiwott Kandie for Gold, clocking 58:49. Cheptegei finished fourth, outside the medal bracket. Other Ugandans in the race Victor Kiplangat and Stephen Kissa finished in 16 and 19 positions respectively to help Uganda win team Gold. 1. 8 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine aTHLETICS

Uganda’s female quartet of Juliet Chekwel, Doreen Chemutai, Doreen Chesang and Rachael Chebet missed out on the podium for a team medal in fourth place. In a nutshell, it was a commendable general performance from both the male and female teams in the half marathon. November saw Cheptegei nominated for the Male World Athlete of the Year for a second year running with five other contenders to the throne. Cheptegei was up against a strong line up with American shot putter Ryan Crouser, Swede Vaulter Armand Duplantis, German javelin thrower Johannes Vetter and Norwegian 400m hurdler Karsten Warholm. Swede vaulter Duplantis took the honors on December 5 in a virtual awards ceremony. The duo was more than successful during with both registering extraordinary milestones on the track even with the hardships presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

HEY, BROTHER...! Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda, Guye Idemo Adola of and Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda lead their group during the Men's Final run during the World Athletics Half Marathon Championships

STUNNING UNSTOPPABLE: 2. STARLET: 1. Joshua Cheptegei of Jacob Kiplimo Uganda crosses the of Uganda in finish line to win the action during Men’s 2020 IAAF World during the Herculis EBS Half Marathon Championships in Monaco 2020 Diamond Gdynia. League meeting at Stade Louis 2. Jul - Dec 2020 9 NCS Magazine

Obua represents, hope and vision for sports in Uganda From promising new reforms to getting more facilities up, the youthful minister’s term has come with the hope sports enthusiasts yearned for. fter 14 years as Minister of State for Willing to get Sports, Hon. Charles Bakabulindi hands dirty. was replaced by Hon. Hamson Obua’s willingness to Denis Obua in December 2019 connect with the most after President Yoweri Kaguta important members Museveni’s cabinet reshuffle. of the fraternity - the A It is over a year since Hon. Obua took charge of athletes - has endeared sports and he has been making his presence felt. him to many Namboole Stadium land titles In August of 2020, Hon. Obua managed to help secure the land titles for the , Namboole from the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development on the instruction of the Uganda Land Commission. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands Dorcus Akalany, handed over the titles to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Alex Kakooza; witnessed by the new sports leader. This was after Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni had asked Uganda Land Commission to transfer the land titles into the names of Mandela National Stadium Limited. Hon. Obua also used the opportunity to appoint a new stadium board of directors. Promises boxing better times As the national boxing side, the Bombers, camped in Luzira Prisons preparing for Olympic Qualifiers, Hon. Obua paid them a visit and listened to their cries. Talk of lack of a standard gym limited finances dominated the meeting. In the end, Hon. Obua promised to work hand in hand with UBF to convince Parliament to help them operate in better conditions. Promises rugby new dawn While flagging off the Rugby Sevens Cranes to Uruguay and Chile for the inaugural World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series on consecutive weekends of February 15-16 and 22-23, Hon. Obua was met with a list of long term grievances facing rugby

10 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine

players. Allowances, bonuses and medical Creating synergies: The new Mandela National Stadium Limited Board of insurance among others were aired out by Directors soon after being appointed by Hon Obua at the Ministry of Education and Sports captain Michael Wokorach. Hon. Obua (MOES) Heaquaters promised to put rugby in mind whenever funds come through on top of lobbying for the Association of Sports Federations of Sport. And the freedom of association is the game. He also admitted the government and Associations of Uganda that they say definitely guaranteed. had fallen short and that rugby deserved would enhance lobbying in the sector, to The sports fraternity expects Hon. Obua to more. tackle the funds issue. There was fear it come clean on his promises. There is more Hon. Obua gives greenlight would face obstacles and even get rejected than enough evidence of talent in Uganda by top authorities before Hon. Obua gave it a with notable success on the international to new sports body’s push for thumbs up. He approved the newly-formed stage. The glory has come without enough funding body for as long as it amplified the NCS’s assistance from the government but Hon. Queries about the progress of sports efforts. According to Hon. Obua , the Obua in charge many will remain optimistic funding policies remain a mainstay in association emanates from the fact that for him to lobby for more sports funding. Uganda. A group of federation heads formed federations belong to the National Council

For the athletes: Hon. Obua flags off Rugby Sevens Cranes ahead of the inaugural World Series

Jul - Dec 2020 11 NCS Magazine BASKETBALL

Flag-off: National Council of Sports Chairman, Dr. Donald Rukare and General Secretary, Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel flag off the Silverbacks for the AfroBasket qualifiers in Lugogo Silverbacks thrive despite year of adversity he first window of the AfroBasket qualifiers in November was only one of the few continental basketball events that were completed in a year in which the COVID-19 pandemic threatened Tto wipe away the game for the entire year. The subsequent performance of the national team Silverbacks at the qualifier however meant it was not all gloom in 2020. The national basketball team recovered from an opening day 96-77 loss to the hosts Egypt to beat Morocco 94-90 and Cape Verde 101-98. Forward Ishmail Wainwright led the tournament with 21.3 points per game in Egypt, including a game-high 36 points against Cape Verde. Enabu averaged 17.7 points, five assists and three assists per game while Robinson Opong’s average of 19 points per games was third-best. MAKING IT HAPPEN: General Secretary, Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel and “I am so happy that we have put ourselves in a Council (Board) Chairman, Dr. Donald Rukare joined by Mohamed Santur the Head of position to make the Afrobasket. We showed that the National Basket teams committee

12 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine BASKETBALL

WELCOME BACK: The national team treated to a sumptuous meal at Copper Chimney Restaurant after their return from the AfroBasket

we learnt a lot from the past losses. It was important appearance with a single win against any of the three PRIDE: Silverbacks getting over the hump. Now, we have to go back and sides in the second window in February guaranteeing sing the national anthem get ready to get better,” Opong noted. a place at the 2021 Afrobasket in . at the AfroBasket Denmark-based Deng Geu meanwhile managed As expected, the government honoured their pledge 13.3 points and eight rebounds per game for the of funding all priority sports under which basketball Silverbacks whose preparations were again hindered falls by footing the $100,000 (UGX 370m) budget by the COVID-19 restrictions. that Fuba submitted to National Council of Sports The Silverbacks currently sit second on the group E (NCS). table with five points garnered from three games, one The team has since resumed training in preparation behind leaders Egypt. of the second window 2021 expected to be hosted That is within striking distance of a third straight by Tunisia in February.

Jul - Dec 2020 13 NCS Magazine woodball

Ashes for woodball as government lights fire oodball was not spared by the turbulence that hit sports in 2020 through the coronavirus pandemic that forced the sector into Wlockdown from March to September. In fact for some, it was a struggle to re-emerge as the guidelines put in place to minimize infections proved too costly in financial sense. For woodball, this meant that only 20 per cent of their activities could be completed. The national team that emerged second in the Beach Woodball World Cup at Spennah Beach in 2019 hoped to impress in Perlis, before the tournament was called off. It was a big lesson in terms of thinking sustainable sports while also an opportunity for woodball.

Opportunities In March just after an initial 32-day lockdown was announced, the Minister for Sports Hon. Hamson Denis Obua toured the Uganda Woodball Federation offices in Nakulabye where he was impressed with the corporate outlook of the sport which is only 12 years old. “This is very impressive sports work,” Obua said after visiting the woodball museum. Woodball, which has been to five world cups, has already hosted two major events including two world events in 2010 and 2019. “I definitely think there are more players interested and the development plan is well laid out. We now need to focus more funding to organised people like you,” he said. NCS General Secretary Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel said that they are considering woodball for priority funding because of its role in spreading the sport quickly. Uganda currently has 4,000 registered woodball players after being introduced in Uganda in 2008. The woodball federation harbours plans of smiles: Minister Obua cheers after gating in an exhibition game. Looking on is establishing their own complex. There is already woodball General Secretary Collins Semmanda and national captain Joan Mukoova. some progress after Buganda Land Board donated a chunk of land in Kasenge, Nsangi Sub-county in

14 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine woodball

Wakiso District. But the required Shs1b Beach woodball needed to develop the facility is yet to be was a no show in raised. 2020 The sport scored a major milestone after they were admitted to the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA). This opened opportunities for excellent athletes to access bonus points to public universities above their A-Level aggregate. “This is a landmark day for us as we continue to grow,” Paul Mark Kayongo, the president of the woodball federation, said during a ceremony in December. The principal qualifying event to the Ball Games II will be the Junior National Championships.

Challenges Although woodball is regarded as a low risk sport, alongside golf, motorsport, swimming and pool, it is yet to re-start its activities owing to the costly COVID-19 tests. Kayongo confirmed that they are working EYES ON THE with the NCS to subsidise testing costs. PRIZE: NCS The federation will start its annual president Doanld activities with an elective assembly that Rukare has assured will steer the game until 2025. Thereafter, organised smaller they will embark on a journey to restart their federations support activities that include preparing for the to return to normalcy rescheduled World Cup in Malaysia.

Jul - Dec 2020 15 NCS Magazine

Smooth progress at Teryet sports facility in Kapchorwa

A team of officials from National Council of Sports, Ministry of Education and Sports, Uganda Athletics Federation and the President’s Office on Sports on October 30, 2020 made a site visit to Athe National High Altitude Centre in Teryet, Kapchorwa to ascertain work progress on the sports facility. The facility left an impression on the officials with Phase one at 77% completion. The hostel building is at 99% completion only awaiting furniture fitting with connections of water and electricity complete. The 3.2km jogging track which will be lit to allow for night training only awaits the layering of tartan. The football and rugby pitches are on completion stage, waiting for fitting of an artificial turf - the rugby ground will also have a 6 lane running track. Members observed that although the road leading to the Teyret is motorable, there still exists a challenge of transport and UNRA is fast trucking the tarmacking of the road. The works on the National High Altitude Training Centre shall be done in three phases to international standard with multiple hostels, a state of the art hotel, physio room, swimming pool and an helicopter pad. China National Complete Plant Import and Export Corporation is undertaking the construction works for the centre that is aimed at benefiting elite athletes especially in athletics, football, swimming and rugby. Given the recent Ugandan athletics successes at the ANYTIME NOW: NCS is growingly confident that the National High world scene, it is believed the facility will go a long way Altitude Centre in Teryet will soon be open for use to enhance the performance of all Ugandan athletes and equally attract international athletes to train at the high performance centre.

16 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine

Wokorach basks in A.S.B.C Vaucluse move, targets Super 14

ust a year after landing a dream move to France with fifth division side Bourges XV, Phillip Wokorach Jmoved a notch higher with the more established A.S.B.C Vaucluse securing his signature in July. Wokorach’s move to the third division side means he is two tiers away from the top 14, France’s premium rugby division. Wokorach’s journey from the now shattered Nakawa quarters to France is one of belief, perseverance, discipline, hard work and talent name it all. He might already be earning a lump sum but more is yet to come for the 26 year old. Another catchy spell at his new side will definitely get bigger sides calling thus bigger pay but he is refusing to get taken up by monetary gains. “For now, I’m not looking at the money, I want to use this as a stepping stone to get into the top 14, “he said on securing the move. BIG MOVE: Phillip Wokorach (L) with his Bourges XV temmates in France The former Hima Heathens before his move to Vaucluse. prodigy has easily grown into one that was there for the taking. He playing at the2018 Amsterdam of Uganda’s greatest rugby players. became a sensation with his ability 7s, a stranger in the stands was He is a darling back home, let it to beat defenders with the cheekiest moved and approached Wokorach. Wokorach be sevens or test rugby, the boy of skills. His flare won Kabras Sugar The stranger would later engineer left a mark by will leave fans on the edge of their fans and within no time, he was his move to Europe and the rest winning every seats. It was at Kyadondo where the on the plane to France to sign with is history. The message from individual journey began as a tag rugby player Bourges XV. Wokorach is simple, keep putting in accolade and before moving to Stallions, Buffaloes His move inspires the next the hard work. became a and Heathens in that order. generation especially those kids In Uganda, football is the more sensation with It was from there that he landed from the wanting communities. fashionable route to professional his ability to his first lucrative move with Kenyan When they hear of his story, they get sport for many young sportsmen beat defenders side Kabras Sugar. While in Kenya the feeling anything is possible if you but Wokorach’s progress could have with the for two year, Wokorach left a mark keep doing the right things as you reminded ruggers that the window is cheekiest of by winning every individual accolade never know who is watching. While wide open. skills.

Jul - Dec 2020 17 NCS Magazine Women football

DOWN MEMORY LANE: Uganda girls U-17 FIFA serve national team players celebrating excitement, agony in equal measure

FWSL Table at cancellation y the time their World Cup dream came to a stinging hault, Uganda’s U-17 women Team P W D L F A PTS football team had already established Kawempe Muslim 7 5 2 0 2 3 17 themselves as the new darlings of the Uganda Martyrs 6 4 1 1 9 4 13 Bnation. Having closed out 2019 with the CECAFA Lady Doves 8 4 1 3 7 8 13 (Confederation of East and Central Africa Football She Corporates 8 3 1 4 7 6 10 Associations) and Cosafa (Confederation of UCU Lady Cardinals 7 2 2 3 7 9 8 Southern Africa Football Associations) titles, Kampala Queens 7 2 1 4 5 10 7 the country was eager to watch their World Cup qualification campaign for the finals that were Olila Women 7 1 0 6 4 11 3 initially due in November 2020. Muteesa I Royal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 In January, inspired by Juliet Nalukenge and Fauzia Najjemba, the Ayub Khalifan-coached

18 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Women football

sided whitewashed Ethiopia 5-1 on aggregate in the preliminary round of the competition. Their football was so breath-taking, U-20 coach Oliver Mbekeka decided to indulge some of their stars in her own side’s World Cup campaign that started with taking on in the preliminary rounds. Nalukenge, Najjemba, No Olympic goalkeeper Daphine dream: Nyayenga, winger Uganda Crested Margaret Kunihira Cranes that started against Ethiopia in the 2nd Leg of Tokyo 2020 Olympics Qualifiers plus defenders Bira Nadunga and CAPTAIN FANTASTIC: Stella Musibika were integrated Juliet Nalukenge celebrating her with key roles in the U-20s. goal away against Ethiopia in the But Tanzania, riding on FIFAU17 Women World Cup Qualifier their Cosafa U-20 title and 2nd Leg match participation at the Union of North African Federations “As a result and after careful consideration of the (UNAF) tourney, won 2-1 both feedback received by the stakeholders combined with home and away to advance the inability to further postpone these tournaments, to the first round, where they the FIFA-Confederations COVID-19 Working met Senegal. Group subsequently recommended that the 2020 In between the games, editions of the two women’s youth tournaments be Tanzania beat the U-17s 2-1 cancelled,” the world governing body wrote on their at home in the first round of the website. 2020 qualifier. Fortunately for India and Costa Rica, which was But from Mbekeka’s squad, supposed to host the U-20 Women’s World Cup, Khalifan added Grace Aluka and they get another chance to host the next edition of Shamirah Nalugya – two players he the tournaments in 2022. had initially ignored – to his squad For Uganda though, coach Ayub Khalifan, whose that had been depleted by injuries to side was awarded Team of the Year (for winning the Musibika and Kevin Nakachwa plus a Cecafa and Cosafa 2019 U-17 tournaments) at the suspension to Shakirah Nyinagahirwa. Uspa Awards Gala on the day this news broke out The two were instrumental as they must get on a rebuilding job. overturned the deficit in a 5-0 win at Lugogo Captain and top scorer Juliet Nalukenge and her to win 6-2 on aggregate and set up a final partner in crime Fauzia Najjemba will be ineligible for qualification round tie against giants Cameroon. the U-17s when the 2022 qualifiers come around. The two-legged qualifier was postponed Khalifan will also lose his defensive quintet of twice; in from May and October owing to the Musibika, Samalie Nakachwa, Nadunga, Sumayah Coronavirus pandemic. And before new dates Komuntale and plus Nalugya and squad members had been set, FIFA dropped the bombshell about Patricia Akiror, Gillian Akadinda and Moureen cancellation of the tournament altogether. Nangonzi.

Jul - Dec 2020 19 NCS Magazine Women football

UNITED WE STAND: Crested Cranes escorted their hard work with colourful celebrations for their goals

FIFA WOMEN U-17 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS PRELIMINARY ROUND Ethiopia 1-3 Uganda Uganda 2-0 Ethiopia Uganda won tie 1-5 on aggregate

FIRST ROUND Tanzania 2-1 Uganda Uganda 5-0 Tanzania Uganda won tie 6-2 on aggregate

SECOND ROUND QUALIFIERS Uganda vs. Cameroon Match and final tournament cancelled

rules (FCR) to anull and void the 2019/2020 season as sports by forced into lockdown by the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic. At the time of the decision, the seven sides in the top division had only completed the first of the three rounds in the league meaning less than 50 percent of INDUSTRIOUS: Local blow the competition had been taken care of. Fauzia Najjemba (shirt Meanwhile, this was not the only blow to Khalifan’s Meanwhile, Muteesa I Royal University’s fate had year as FUFA also elected to cancel the inaugural 13) celebrating her goal already been sealed as they had been ejected from Women Super League (FWSL) in May – potentially against Tanzania in the the competition for failing to honour three fixtures on denying his side (leaders at the time with 17 points) 1st Leg the bounce. Kawempe Muslim SS another title. Fufa also cancelled the Women Cup while in the Most clubs generally welcomed the federation’s second tier league – the Fufa Women Elite League decision to invoke Article 18 (a) of their competition (FWEL), the table as at the end of first round was

20 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Women football

SUPPORTING CAST: Uganda Women U17 Team Officials with FUFA president Moses Magogo (in blue tie) after winning CECAFA in December 2019 considered final as per FCR Article 18(b), since all that FIFA released towards the development and teams had completed the first of two rounds and continuity of women’s football after the outbreak of were yet to get to 75% of their fixtures. COVID-19. Consequently, Isra Soccer Academy (Victoria The grant was approved to cater for the ‘Take Group) and Makerere University (Elizabeth) Asubo Gafford Flight Project’ which was launched in a bid to sportingly qualified to next season’s FWSL for and Tooro develop women’s for the next topping their groups. Queens would two years (2020-2021) under the key pillars of Asubo Gafford and Tooro Queens would later in later in October increased numbers, improved leagues and teams, October have their playoffs to decide the third team have their and increased revenue generating streams. to be promoted. The latter won 4-2 on penalties after playoffs to a goalless draw at Fufa Technical Centre in Njeru. decide the third National U-17 Squad team to be Goalkeepers: Daphine Nyayenga (Uganda Covid relief promoted. Martyrs High School - UMHS), Joan Namusisi The win earned Tooro Queens a Shs25m financial (Isra Soccer Academy), Zulaika Ngamita (Asubo boost as they came in at a time when there was Gafford), Gift Nasasira (Maroons) Shs400m for the 10 FWSL clubs to share while Defenders: Grace Aluka, Samalie Nakacwa, each of the FWEL clubs would get Shs15m. The Stella Musibika (Kawempe Muslim), Sumaya funds were from the $500,000 (Shs1.87bn) grant Komuntale, Bira Naddunga, Gillian Akadinda (Olila High School), Gloria Namugerwa (UMHS), Patricia Akiror (Ajax Queens) FWEL Playoffs Midfielders: Winnifred Kwatulira (Jinja Tooro Queens 0 (4) – 0 (2) Asubo Gafford United), Devine Mirembe (Asubo Gafford), Shamira Nalugya, Shakira Nyinagahirwa 2020/21 FWSL Teams: Isra Academy, Kampala Queens, Kawempe Muslim, Lady Doves, (Kawempe Muslim), Kevin Nakacwa (UMHS), Makerere University, Olila Women, She Corporate, UCU Lady Cardinals, Uganda Martyrs HS Moreen Nangonzi (Ajax Queens), Ruth Nyakato – Lubaga, Tooro Queens (Tooro Queens), Sumaya Kyomuhendo (Isra), Sumaya Tibazalika (Wakiso) Forwards: Juliet Nalukenge, Hadijjah Nandago, Fifa COVID-19 Funds Allocation Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim), Zaina Entity Club Amount per Club Total Nandede (She Kataka), Fauzia Najjemba FWSL 10 Shs40,000,000 Shs400,000,000 (Kampala Queens), Catherine Nagadya, FWEl 12 Shs15,000,000 Shs180,000,000 Brenda Munyana (UMHS), Zaitun Namaganda, Kamuyati Naigaga (Taggy High School), Eva Regional clubs 50 Shs3,000,000 Shs150,000,000 Nagayi (Rines) Beach soccer 5 Shs1,000,000 Shs5,000,000 Jul - Dec 2020 21 NCS Magazine tAhNOrougCA MEEh tTheing lens

NO LETTING UP ON COVID-19 GUIDELINES: President Yoweri Museveni was awarded with the ANOCA Order of Merit Award by the ANOCA president Mustapha Berraf in Entebbe after close of the 55th Executive Board Meeting of the Association of National Olympic Committee of Africa (ANOCA) hosted by Uganda. ONE GOOD TURN,...

FOR SPORT: H.E the President of Uganda and First Lady, the Minister of Education and Sports, host the ANOCA Executive Board together with NCS and National Sports Federations leaders at State House.

HOT SHOTS: Sports Minister Hamson Obua, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet, President Museveni, DELIBERATIONS: Sports leaders make their case known to ANOCA head Berraf and UOC chairman William Blick pose for a photo President Museveni during the ANOCA head’s visit to Uganda

22 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine thGenerougralh tPihectorial lens

NAMBOOLE BOARD: The new Mandela National Stadium Limited Board of Directors soon after being appointed by Hon Obua at the Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES) Headquarters in Kampala on September 9, 2020. The 7 man board of Mandela National Stadium Limited will serve for a period of three years until 2023. BUILDING SYSTEMS

HOSPITALITY: Gen. Abdelalim Hazem Ahmed, president of Africa Shooting Federation, visited Uganda to meet National Council of Sports and promote the discipline in the Uganda. WITH YOU ALL THE WAY: Hon. Denis Hamson Obua displays his boxing skills during one of his inspection visits to national sports federations offices. WORK WITH US: The National Council of Sports (NCS) Chairman Dr. Donald Rukare has urged USPA to come up with a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NCS to better the working relations.

BEING ACCOUNTABLE: Special invitation to NCS chairman and general secretary and UOC president to the 96th FUFA Ordinary General Assembly on October 17, 2020 at Silver Springs Hotel.

Jul - Dec 2020 23 NCS Magazine Rugby

DID THEIR PART: Heathens jubilate after being handed the winner’s trophy after 75% of the season had been played with them leading the standings before COVID-19 interrupted. Heathens crowned league champs in Covid struck season

eathens Rugby Club were crowned Nile Stout Premiership champions in November at Kyadondo, eight months since playing a leagueH game after the COVID-19 pandemic cut the season short in March. The now fifteen time league champions, three better of their closest chasers Betway Kobs at 12, were in the driving seat after 13 of 18 rounds played when the campaign was halted. With three quarters (75%) of the competition played Heathens were leading standings and favourites to defend their title -Heathens backs Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Kato and Innocent Gwotko get a photo moment thus earning the honors. with the trophy at the handover ceremony at Kyadondno Rugby Club. Coach Mohammed Athiyo was aware many

24 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Rugby

LETTING THE HAIR DOWN: After a long time in the dark, Heathens players had every reason to let loose at the ceremony attended by a host of stakeholders termed it a ‘boardroom title’ and he partly sorted amicably at the top, there were sided with the narrative on grounds he questions on how the relegation issue Past Winners preferred a complete season title. “People would be sorted. Rimula Rhinos were 1991: Heathens 2009: Heathens have labelled it a boardroom title which is bottom and off the pace by six points but 1992: Heathens 2010: Heathens right. As coach I’m not content with how were confident of getting out of the red 1993: Heathens 2011: Heathens we won it because we still had to play zone. URU voted not to relegate any side 1994: Not held 2012: Heathens Kobs and Pirates, those games would thus giving Rhinos a chance to play in the 1995: Kobs 2013: Heathens have tested us. For me, we did not play top tier next season. 1996: Impis 2014: Kobs the games that really mattered,” Athiyo The competition produced stand out 1997: Kobs 2015: Heathens said at the trophy handover. individual performers like Heathen’s 1998: Kobs 2016: Kobs Despite the COVID-19 clouded gloom, Joseph Oyet who placed no foot wrong in 1999: Kobs 2017: Heathens Uganda Rugby Union (URU) recorded the 13 games played. He was clearly the 2000: Kobs 2018: Pirates a success in ensuring the league had division’s best player and with that form, 2001: Kobs 2019: Heathens somehow ended with a champion favorite to emerge the Most Valuable 2002: Heathens 2020: Heathens crowned. There had been debate on how Player. His exploits at full black were a joy League titles the winner was to be determined after to watch while boot collected vital points 2003: Kobs hopes of resuming died out. After the for his side. His teammate Lawrence 2004: Heathens Heathens: 15 initial suspension, there had been hope Sebuliba was back to his old self scoring 2005: Heathens Kobs: 12 of action returning with Kobs hoping they for fun while Kobs’ Daudi Semwami was 2006: Kobs Impis: 1 would topple Heathens from the summit having a dream start to his Kobs’ career as 2007: Kobs Pirates: 1 by covering the six point gap. their top scorer. 2008: Kobs On the other hand, while business was

Jul - Dec 2020 25 NCS Magazine Netball

GAZELLE: Peace Proscovia of Uganda and Kelly Jury of New Zealand compete for the ball during the Netball match between New Zealand and Uganda on day one of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on April 5, 2018 on the Gold Coast, Australia. Netball amid COVID-19 tribulation

or a sport that had shown After a period of preparation for the Netball the Youth World Cup by virtue of their fifth, early intent to fly higher after World Cup qualifiers that were scheduled sixth and seventh placements in the world the Netball World Cup in for May 4-10 where African countries rankings. 2019, 2020 was supposed including , , , Hopeful that sports would soon resume, to be an eventful year with , Algeria, Kenya among others had Susan Anek the Uganda Netball Federation Fthe country looking forward to hosting confirmed participation, the event was (UNF) president urged players not to give the Youth Netball World Cup qualifiers in postponed till further notice due to Covid up but train from their respective homes as Lugogo, the senior team fighting to revive -19. they waited for the pandemic to subside. their lost African Netball Championships The surge in the pandemic later led to the “I call upon the players to train on their glory as well as a bigger and better local cancellation of all continental qualifiers in own. The federation will be monitoring league. September by the International Netball them and I hope by the time they resume But all the above were nipped in the Federation (INF) and also led to the training, their fitness will be top,” Anek bud due to the COVID-19 pandemic that extension of the youth event from July to advised. affected not only netball but also other December 2021. Meanwhile the senior national team could sports disciplines. However lots of lessons As a result, South Africa, Malawi and not fight for their African netball glory as the have been and are still being learnt. Uganda automatically made the cut for Africa Netball Championships that were

26 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Netball

scheduled for October were also called off. The She Cranes were 2017 and 2018 champions before losing the trophy to South Africa in the 2019. The local league Unlike previously where the first division had only eight teams, relegated sides in Makindye Weyonje and Posta Netball Club were allowed to continue playing in the first division with the inclusion of promoted sides KBK and Uganda X to make ten teams. This was intended to increase the number of participants in the league in the bid to attract sponsors. The league was scheduled for April but was postponed to November 7 before being pushed to December and later called off, all thanks to the Covid -19 pandemic. In a club managers’ meeting held in Lugogo, on Saturday October 17 2020, managers proposed that the netball league start be deferred to early December citing need for more preparation time. REMEMBERING THE ACTION: Ruth Meeme (R) of Uganda in action In the same meeting, the UNF officials presented during the Vitality Netball World Cup match between Uganda and Scotland at M&S Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as set by Bank Arena on July 14, 2019 in Liverpool, England. the Ministry of Health to the club managers and also indicated willingness to help the different teams in fulfilling the SOPs. Before the league started, some clubs had already decided to pull out citing difficulty in meeting the SOPs as well as shortage of players. To some clubs it was convenient to start training while others, especially those with students as players, found it difficult because they could not call them back at that critical time. Uganda Christian University was the first to pull out of the league as their coach Nelson Bogere said all his players were sent back home after all universities closed due to COVID-19. Days before the league, the Posta Netball Club manager Rosette Kaala also wrote to the federation requesting that her club fixtures be postponed till 2021. “Most of my players are students who stay with their parents. Parents cannot risk sending them for training in this COVID-19 time, we also do not have money to meet the SOPS,” She said. Teams were expected to part with at least Shs2, 220,000 per check-up of 12 players on the line up WORTH THE CHALLENGE: Bethan Goodwin of Scotland rises to claim over six weeks in the first round of the league, which the ball ahead of Stella Nanfuka of Uganda during the Netball Pool B match between many could not afford. Uganda and Scotland on day seven of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at “It was not applicable to spend such a huge amount Gold Coast Convention Centre on April 11, 2018 on the Gold Coast, Australia. of money. The federation promised to monitor the

Jul - Dec 2020 27 NCS Magazine Netball

teams and give the necessary help but they NO WAY THROUGH: Soli Ropati of Samoa in action during the Vitality Netball World could also not afford,” Kaala added. Cup game between Uganda and Samoa at M&S Bank Arena on July 13, 2019 in Liverpool, At the league start, only Makindye England. Weyonje Netball Club and Police had tested their players for COVID-19. For this reason the league was officially called off and teams called upon to look forward to the next season slated for May this year. To make up for their training time, spearheaded by Makindye Weyonje, clubs proposed a netball tournament to make up for the national league. A series of friendlies were randomly played by some teams in December. These helped court-thirsty players to taste some competitive netball after months of being off-court. Professional players

While local players suffered the COVID-19 HOUSEHOLD NAME: Halima Nackachwa of Uganda battles for the ball with Bethany doom, professional players Mary Nuba and Sutherland of Scotland during the Netball Pool B match between Uganda and Scotland on day Peace Proscovia playing in the English seven of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games at Gold Coast Convention Centre on April and Australian leagues were also equally 11, 2018. affected. Nuba had hardly played three games of “We do individual training through the second behind leaders Melbourne Vixens in the league when fixtures were postponed guidance of our trainers via WhatsApp. We the league. and later the league was called off. However want to remain fit as we wait for the next Proscovia alongside South Africa’s during her time-off, she embarked on season,” she said. defender Phumza Maweni were credited personal fitness training as she awaits On a positive note, Proscovia extended by head coach Kylee Byrne for being the next season of the league starting in her stay till 2021 after her Australian league outstanding with a lot of professionalism. February. side Sunshine Coast Lightning finished

28 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Football

Road to Qatar 2022 WC

ganda are pooled in Group E of the World Cup qualifying alongside Mali, Kenya and, once again, Rwanda. Qualification was due this Uyear, but the group games will now start in June 2021, ending in November before the final phase of play-offs. The 10 group winners will progress to the play-off round, where two-legged ties will decide Africa’s five World Cup representatives in Qatar. For now, though, the Cranes will focus on progressing from the Chan group stage for the first time in five attempts. They were due to play a four-nation build-up mini-tournament against hosts Cameroon, Zambia and Niger. THROUGH THE PACES: Cranes players have been kept busy by their coaches Johnathan McKinstry and Abdallah Mubiru

Jul - Dec 2020 29 NCS Magazine Through the lens

RESUMPTION OF SPORTS meeting National Council of Sports met federations during the lockdown to discuss a way to reopen the sector

WORKING IN HARMONY: National Council of Sports (NCS) board chairman Donald Rukare (2nd L), and assistant general secretary (technical) David Katende oversaw the discussion that enabled the resumption of sports in September 2020

Council Member, Mark Ssali Assistant General Secretary/Administration, Council Member, Grace Abalo Titus Kayigwa

Assistant General Secretary/Technical, David President Uganda Lacrosse Association, Katende Makanda Ibrahim

30 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine through the lens

ONE BIG TEAM: Representatives from various federations attending the meeting

Hudson Segamwenge, FUBA vice president

INCLUSIVE: The deaf sports federation driving their point home.

President, Uganda Swimming Federation, Moses Mwase

Council Member, Agatha Namirembe Council Member, Andrew Otengo Owiny President, Uganda Handball Federation, Sheila Agonzibwa

Jul - Dec 2020 31 NCS Magazine tennis

CATCH THEM YOUNG: Kololo Youth Tennis League winners show off their accolades after an exciting but taxing tournament Local tennis births the Kololo Youth League

UTA under the stewardship of Cedric Babu have already held age grade completions where many youngsters have been discovered. “It is the way to go. The numbers keep growing as more children are playing tennis, the future looks bright,” UTA administrator Alvin Bagaya recently told the media in Lugogo.

ince being readmitted into the developing the game from grassroots levels. The league International Tennis Federation (ITF) in served off on November 22 at Kololo Primary School 2018 after serving a lengthy ban, the tennis court with scores turning up to compete. Uganda Tennis Association (UTA) has The league was split into two divisions with age opted to focus on grassroots as the most groups 10-14yrs and 15-18yrs. Children from different Sfeasible way of reviving the game. academies registered and showcased what they are UTA under the stewardship of Cedric Babu have already picking from their coaches. Such tournaments are held age grade completions where many youngsters have the reason the latest bunch of youngsters like Maggie been discovered. “It is the way to go. The numbers keep Namaganda, Musa Kato, growing as more children are playing tennis, the future Francis Agonzibwa, Nasser Achom and Babirye Edna looks bright,” UTA administrator Alvin Bagaya recently have emerged. It’s not just the seven but many more told the media in Lugogo. continue to learn and perfect their craft. “Through In the midst of the pandemic, UTA launched their latest tournaments like these; Tennis for All has voluntarily project, Kololo Youth League, to cement their intent of nurtured a number of players .We want to be the number

32 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine tennis

GIRLS NOT LEFT OUT: A Uganda Tennis Federation (UTF) official hands over a certificate to one of the best players at the event played at Kololo Primary School.

ON RECORD: At the end of the long season, the best players were awarded with trophies and certificates to keep them working hard towards future engagements one supplier of players to our national The League which attracted untapped which has over 200 children under their teams,” confirmed coach Muwereza at local talent is expected to climax in January wing continues to empower, mobilize, and the launch of the event. For an inaugural with a goal of nurturing the finest junior educate slum children both boys and girls edition, the response was overwhelming players in Uganda. It is played in round through tennis. That helps keep slum kids and a sign of hope for the game that has a robin format with the first player to eight away from crime with tennis occupying bumpy ride in the last decade. games winning the tie. Tennis For All most of their time.

Jul - Dec 2020 33 NCS Magazine MotorGOLF rally

NO HOME ADVANTAGE, NO PROBLEM: Kenyan John Lejirma(R) receives his Uganda Golf Open trophy from UGU president Moses Masitko (2ndR) and UBL’S Phillipa Nantamu Uganda ‘Opens’ offer fitting climax to season In the 79th Uganda Amateur Open, the honours went to a Kenyan for the second successive year with John Lejirma lifting aloft the ‘Holy Grail’ on December 4. Ugandan Joseph Kasozi finished three strokes off the pace in second place with Entebbe’s Christopher Baguma surprisingly in third with 292 gross, three strokes ahead of Michael Alunga and pre-tournament favourite Joseph Cwinyaai.

arlier scheduled to be held in August 2020, the restrictions on social gatherings including sporting Uganda’s premier and the region’s most activities continuing to gather steam with each passing prestigious golfing bonanza almost never timeframe and deadline announced by President saw the light of day after the COVID-19 Museveni. pandemic gripped the world in true But newly elected Uganda Golf Union (UGU) president Edestructive fashion. Moses Matsiko refused to cut a forlorn figure in the face By then (before March 18) only a few ‘Majors’ had of adversity. And it was no surprise that golf was the been played – the Entebbe Ladies Open – at the par-71 first discipline to get the greenlight to resume as early as lakeside Entebbe Club with Irene Nakalembe scripting June with some recreational golf but strictly under strict more history as she notched a record sixth title. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) without even Kitante Open at par-72 Uganda Golf Club (UGC) the niceties of the 19th hole. course, Singleton Challenge and Entebbe Matchplay And by the time other sport disciplined returned Championship hogged a few headlines along the way to action in October, UGU had already mapped out but it was primarily destined to be a ‘dead year’ with a schedule to ensure the 2020 Uganda Open Golf

34 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Motor rallyGOLF

ELATION: Martha Babirye (L) celebrates after winning the Ladies Golf Open at Kitante 3206. Robson Chinhoi (R) displays his trophies

Championships – a four-in-one Lejirma lifting aloft the ‘Holy Grail’ The year concluded with a couple event including joined the Juniors on December 4. Ugandan Joseph of club events taking place but most edition, Ladies category, Amateurs Kasozi finished three strokes off the notably Innocent Nahabwe and event and money-spinning pace in second place with Entebbe’s Luwum Adoch outdoing themselves Professionals tourney - played over Christopher Baguma surprisingly in as they outclassed Diana three weeks happens. Such a heist third with 292 gross, three strokes Nambalirwa & Anthony Ndegwa was always going to be hard to pull ahead of Michael Alunga and 5/3 (five-up with three holes to off. In the end, UGU scrapped off the pre-tournament favourite Joseph play) to bag the fourth edition of the Juniors Open and further trimmed Cwinyaai. much-fancied Singleton Matchplay the coveted showpiece’s duration At the 15th Uganda Professionals Challenge. from 11 to 3 days. Open, free-spirited Zimbabwean Some joy for Ugandans Robson Chinhoi struck a 2020 Uganda Open Winners: The sponsors led by Tusker Malt championship record score of Amateurs: John Lejirmu (Kenya) Lager came to the party and lady 15-under 273 following a final round Ladies: Martha Babirye (Uganda) sensation Martha Babirye made it of five-under 67 to pocket a lion’s Professionals: Robson Chinhoi (Zimbabwe) two on the bounce as she rallied from share of $5,920 (an estimated Seniors: Fred Kasumba & Ruth Ssali (Uganda) a five-shot deficit in between her UGX21.8 MILLION) off theOTH ER EVENTS rounds to upstage crowd favourite UGX100MILLION prize money. Peace Kabasweka, who led on Day Two-time winner Deo Akope came Entebbe Ladies Open: Irene Nakalembe (Uganda) One and Day Two, to scoop the 70th close in second with an aggregate Kitante Open: Uganda Ladies Open title by two of five-under 283 and ever-green Andrew Odoh () strokes. Phillip Kasozi was fifth with at Singleton Matchplay Challenge: Innocent Nahabwe & Luwum Adoch In the 79th Uganda Amateur Open, one-under 287 to give the Ugandan Liquid Telecom CEOs Day: the honours went to a Kenyan for the fans something to cheer about on Innocent Nahabwe (Galaxy FM) second successive year with John December 6. Trot Challenge: Judith Komugisha & Tom Kakaire

Jul - Dec 2020 35 NCS Magazine CRICKET

Elite Leagues help cricket emerge from COVID-19 shadow

DOWN IN HISTORY: Innaugural Elite League winners Aziz Damani were a class apart during the tournamanet that spearheaded the return of Cricket activities in the country. The tournament was a major success.

Winning Franchises body International Cricket Council so that some programmes could Men: Aziz Damani Scorpions (ICC). Such funding goes a long get underway. And despite having way in helping UCA to cater for the called off the season, UCA were Ladies: Aziz Damani Hurricanes game’s development right from the quick to ensure the year didn’t go grassroots. he Uganda Cricket without action once the concerned Such was UCA’s dream. But alas bodies, committees under the UCA quickly Association (UCA) it yielded no fruit with COVID-19 guidance of the National COVID-19 put on their was scheduled to pandemic putting a halt to ICC and Task Force, Ministry of Health and thinking scale the heights more-so Uganda’s international National Council of Sports, after caps by in the year 2020 expeditions. the announcement of President creating a and inch ever close to their dream T Back home, UCA waited until Museveni to allow sports resumption Bio-Bubble goal of finally attaining One Day September to call off the its yearly under strict Standard Operating and initiated International (ODI) status. calendar with only the national team Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines, the Uganda For starters, ODI status is a level trials and Cricket Cranes Tour to The was okayed in early October. Elite League where Uganda’s senior men national Gulf & Sub-Continent in earlier in Birth of Elite Leagues that was team – The Cricket Cranes get to February having materialized. UCA quickly put on their thinking played play at the same level with the elite The association kept their fingers caps by creating a Bio-Bubble and under the nations and earn ranking points; crossed season long hoping for the initiated the Uganda Elite League Twenty20 but more importantly earn more coronavirus restrictions to be relaxed that was played under the Twenty20 format funding from the game’s governing

36 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine CRICKET

WORK IT: Batsmen run accross the wicket for a run during a game in the Elites League that kept fans and players going through the pandemic.

DELIVERY: Medium pace bowler Travor Bukenya put in his shift during the Elite league. He was a joy to watch .

format by three successfully courtesy of UCA partner Amos auctioned franchises; Aziz Damani Wekesa of Uganda Lodges. Scorpions bought by Gittoes Newly appointed national coach Pharmacies’ Siva Koti Reddy Challa, Laurence Mahatlane made his The Royal Varsani Bucks purchased grand arrival from Test-playing by Rainbow Paints’ Tulsi Varsani and South Africa in early November The Mamba Challengers acquired by and hogged a couple of headlines Metro Tyres’ Mohammed Vaheed. but December was truly all about The Scorpions, captained by women’s cricket as they partook national skipper Brian Masaba, in a two-team Uganda Women’s didn’t start well but quickly found Elite League at Lugogo Cricket their groove and were deservedly Oval. The Aziz Damani Hurricanes, atop the log with 10 points when despite losing the final match of the rain-hampered final failed to take five round-robin series against The off thus earning the crown as Challengers Blizzards, were crowned deserved champions on October 31. champions for the early work done The top players then embarked on as they romped to a 3-1 victory with a once-in-a-lifetime all expenses one of the matches was washed out. paid trip to Queen Elizabeth UCA will be hoping 2021 brings WELL DONE: Brian Masaba (R) congratulates a National Park and a boat cruise on better fortune both on the local and teammate after picking up a wicket during the new elite the state-of-the-art MV Kazinga international scene. league.

Jul - Dec 2020 37 NCS Magazine FOOTBALL

MAXING IT OUT: UPDF FC long serving experienced captain Sekitoleko Denis was one of their outstanding performers UPDF unexpected UPL leaders in year of delay he effect ofNations (CHAN) tournament, the with Brian Ahebwa leading the COVID-19 will league went into a long break that scoring charts after plundering certainly be felt is expected to last until February seven goals in five games while globally for a long 12. partner Sam Ssenyonjo has five in time to come. Army side UPDF are surprise as many games. T For the table leaders after picking four The reigning champions Vipers (UPL), the consequences were wins in five games played this far. are meanwhile having played felt instantly when Vipers were The army side showed, perhaps three games, two less than the announced champions of the as expected, that they have the majority of the teams following URA who 2020 season with five games of most stocked armoury after their engagement in the CAF are one the scheduled 30-game season subjecting fellow forces side (Confederation of African of five yet to be completed. Police to a 1-0 defeat, the latter’s Football) Champions League. unbeaten The trend continued into first loss this season. After crashing out 2-0 on sides are the current season that was URA who are one of five aggregate to Sudanese side Al second postponed thrice before finally unbeaten sides are second after Hilal, they returned to domestic after three kicking off on December 3. three consecutive wins over SC action with a 1-1 draw against consecutive The teams faced further Villa, Bul and KCCA atoned for wins over Wakiso Giants before a laboured disruption as many players tested their slow start. 2-1 win over newly promoted SC Villa, Bul positive for COVID-19 hence and KCCA KCCA despite scoring 14 goals, Kitara and a 5-3 thrashing of missing out on some of the atoned for the most thus far are fourth after Busoga United. They lie ninth opening rounds. their slow consecutive losses to title rivals just ahead of 16-time record And to allow for national team start. SC Villa and URA. champions Villa, both on seven preparations ahead of the The yellow boys have the most points. ongoing Championship of African potent striking partnership so far

38 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine FOOTBALL

REVENGE MISSION: Vipers are on a mission to make up for the title celebrations they missed after the 2019/20 season and it’s ensuing celebrations were cancelled due to Covid-19

WONDERFUL START: UPDF surprised themselves too by taking charge of the league before the first break that allowed for the national team to convene ahead of CHAN

MADE FOR THE DUGOUT : UPDF Head Coach, Kefa Kisala has enviable coaching experience having previously worked with URA, FLYING EAGLES: Express players celebrate Frank Kalanda’s BUL (two spells), Express and recently Wakiso Giants. opener against Brightstars

Jul - Dec 2020 39 NCS Magazine fOOTBALL

PROMISING FUTURE: Isa Bugembe (Shirt 17) in action for the national under-17 team Cubs at the Cecafa tournament Uganda dominates regional age group games

ganda’s football by Tanzania in November. left back while Bobosi Byaruhanga dominance in This was after the team played bossed the opposition in midfield, the CECAFA more than 65 minutes with a providing cover for the defence (Confederation of man down after defender Musa without losing his ability to initiate East and Central Ramathan was sent off. Uganda attacks. UAfrica Football Associations) region Their defensive solidity would then edged ahead Byekwaso also made changes has been well documented with the form the backbone of their success of Ethiopia going forward with Ivan Bogere and Uganda Cranes the most successful Isma Mugulusi replacing Ivan Asaba as coach Morley Byekwaso finally as the most side having won the senior appeared to have found the right and Raymond Onyai in attack after successful competition a record 15 times. balance with the embarrassment of the South Sudan game. The country in 2020 however riches he had going forward. nation with The reward was a joint tournament took it a notch higher claiming The Hippos conceded three goals four Cecafa high; five goals from Bogere while the Under-20 title from Tanzania in four games in stark contrast to the Under-20 Mugulusi added two and was heavily before retaining the Under 17-crown eight they let in last year in Gulu. titles from involved in two of the three goals the in impressive style in Rwanda to Hippos scored against Kenya in the Captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri the 13 times conclude the year. exuded confidence and maturity and semifinals. it has been The Hippos however did not look alongside Ramathan were among The 4-1 triumph over Tanzania like they would go all the way after the defenders retained alongside held. in the final made it 13 goals scored playing out a goalless draw with goalkeeper Jack Komakech. in four games for Byekwaso who South Sudan in the opening fixture There was also an upgrade in the is often accused of favouring a of the Under-20 tournament hosted form of Vipers duo Aziz Kayondo at cautious approach.

40 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine fOOTBALL

LIT UP THE TOURNAMENT: Travis Mutyaba BOYS TO WATCH: Oscar Mawa (L) and Travis Mutyaba pose with their receiving the MVP award at the Cecafa Under-17 top scorer and MVP accolades tournament

Uganda consequently edged ahead of Ethiopia as the most successful nation with four Cecafa Under-20 titles from the 13 times it has been held. They also qualified for the Afcon Under-20 finals tournament. The national Under-17 team Cubs also matched their seniors’ performances, retaining their crown. After 10 days of action in Rwanda’s Rubavu district, there were no doubts about the best team at the six-nation tournament. The Hamza Lutalo-coached side won all four games to qualify to a second successive Afcon U-17 tournament. They started out with a 5-0 thrashing of Kenya before dispatching Ethiopia 3-0 in the other group game. They were then made to work hard for a 1-0 semifinal win over Djibouti with the final against the equally physical Tanzanians yesterday following a similar path at least in the first half. Oscar Mawa carried the team on his young shoulders for much of the tournament scoring six goals including the 90th minute semifinal winner. In the final, goals from Ivan Irinimbabazi, a sublime Travis Mutyaba solo effort and Captain Ibrahim Juma’s penalty gave the Cubs a 3-1 win over their Tanzanian counterparts in the final played at the TO GOD BE THE GLORY: Mutyaba celebrates his magical goal at the Cecafa Under-17 tournament Umuganda Stadium.

Jul - Dec 2020 41 NCS Magazine Slums soccer

GIVING BACK: UNHCR country representative Joel Boutroue (L) and Ritah Aliguma are joined by UNHCR staff to inspect the donation towards the rehabilitation of the Acholi Quarters ground on Monday Slums soccer initiative scores big lums Soccer, an annual tournament held in Acholi Quarters of Kasokoso in Nakawa Division, will be one of the global beneficiaries of European funding. SThe tournament, one of the projects organised by the Aliguma Foundation, are at the receiving end of a two-year working relationship with UEFA (Union of European Football Association). UEFA Foundation selected 24 projects in Europe; 16 in Africa; 8 in America, 6 in Asia; and 1 in Oceania to benefit from the 4,812,021 Euros (UGX21b) pool. Founder Ritah Aliguma says work is in the administrative process and as soon as funding is released, activities will immediately start to enable her dream of establishing a resource centre in Masindi. “We are going to outsource most of the service providers although UEFA will give financial and technical support,” Aliguma says. She is looking GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT: UNHCR country representative Joel ahead to establishing a hospital, school to meet Boutroue (L) hands over a football to Ritah Aliguma. This was part of the UNHCR support towards the upgrade of Achoili Quarters playground

42 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Slums soccer

the future needs. Having started in June 2017, Aliguma has been helping young people by organising an annual Slums Soccer Derby championship, which was unfortunately not held this year because of the Coronavirus pandemic. She has also been helping mothers through enterprise. But after getting UEFA’s nod for her project, ‘Sports for Resilience & Empowerment Project (SREP)’ which seeks to promote children’s fundamental rights, Aliguma believes the dream to establish a ‘dream city’ in Masindi is also on. The charity has also benefited from the generosity of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), who contributed towards the annual football tournament. UNHCR made a donation including 16 full sets of jerseys and 32 footballs. Joel Boutroue, the UNHCR Country Representative was excited by his agency’s contribution stressing the role of helping less privileged people engage in sports. “It gives me joy to know that we are playing a part in changing lives in slums which host people who have been affected by war, especially Acholi Quarters, which hosts people that were escaping from the Joseph Kony insurgency in northern Uganda,” Boutroue said.

Jul - Dec 2020 43 NCS Magazine Masaza football

ROYAL HANDSHAKE: Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi flanked by his Katikiro Charles Peter Mayiga greets players before kickoff of a Masaza Cup final in the past Masaza football lucky to be played here was massive interest for the Buganda Kingdom to hold the Masaza Cup amidst the Coronavirus. It all started with the kingdom sacrificing Tthe Bika Bya Baganda tournament while holding a virtual Kabaka Birthday run. Then the kingdom unveiled a massive plan backed with a Shs1.5 billion purse to hold the Masaza Cup in a “bubble” at Njeru Technical Centre. “This is an important tournament to the kingdom and we are keen to make it as enjoyable as possible,” FUFA deputy chief executive Decolas Kiiza, said during the official launch of the tournament at the kingdom headquarters in Mengo, on November 20, 2020. With 18 teams taking part, the costs of COVID-19 tests – one of the guidelines Bright start: Mawogola players celebrate a goal against Ssingo in a 3-0 win during the group stages

44 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine Masaza football

that must be observed ahead of sports events – were BIG SCALP: Masaza Cup Buddu players jubliate their lone goal against going to take a big toll on the tournament expenditure. Bulemeezi Fortunately, the sponsors pushed the bar with official partners, Airtel unveiling a UGX 600m purse. This was complemented with Centenary Bank and Kande Poultry while the kingdom covered the rest. The organisers paid for COVID-19 tests, accommodation and feeding while individual teams were expected to take care of players’ facilitation. But the tournament did not go without drama as Ssingo forfeited their game against Butambala. Teams were instructed to avail only 16 players for COVID-19 testing. The squads were definitely ripped apart with high positive cases. As a result, Busujju had three team players injured in a game they started with three men less. The camp was also hit as the head of the camp Samuel Mpiima was diagnosed positive alongside the chief medical personnel. With the delayed kick off, teams have also lost key TAKING THEM ON: Mawokota’s Geofrey Oyaka (in red) in action against players to the Uganda Premier League (UPL) and Bugerere. Masaza football was deprived of fanfare and star players. the FUFA Big League. Gomba, the tournament’s big spenders, in particular, lost more than Shs50m in players Masaza Cup Cast of All Winners: that became ineligible after joining elite clubs. Although the tournament has been deprived of its 2019 – ? 2014 – Gomba 2008 – Kyadondo central nervous system, the fans, BBS TV offered live 2019 – Bulemeezi 2013 – Mawokota 2007 – Mawokota coverage to take games straight to their sitting rooms. 2018 – Singo 2012 – Bulemeezi 2006 – Kooki “What matters is having the tournament take place,” 2017 – Gomba 2011 – Buluri 2005 – Mawokota Mpiima said. The tournament climaxes in February. 2016 – Buddu 2010 – Not Held 2004 – Gomba 2015 – Singo 2009 – Gomba

Jul - Dec 2020 45 NCS Magazine ZURKabKHaddiANEH Kabaddi spreads wings

The first move was to shift the offices from Nalukolongo in Kampala to Matugga. The sport has now landed new partners including the Indian High Commission and Bank of India as well as prominent businessmen like Thomas Binu,

WE BELONG TO SOMETHING NEW : Some of the members who attended the Kabaddi Capacity building course at ndejje University main campus Bombo, which was organized by Kabaddi federation of Uganda in partnership with Ndejje University Community Sports Education Program NUCSEP. A course that involved sports community coaches, physical education and sports teachers, army sports officers from the luweero triangle region.

abaddi is among the new Masindi District at Kabalega SS, primary sports in Uganda that have schools championship at Lugogo, the What is Kabaddi? been met with enthusiasm Kabaddi Federation Cup at Katikati as well Kabaddi is basically an outdoor team among the youths. as international activities like the Africa game played on level and soft ground which Introduced in 2018, the World Cup qualifiers, the sport morphed requires both skill and power and combines KKabaddi Federation of Uganda (KFU) is into a helpful mission aimed at enhancing now looking at developing the sport at the grassroots. the characteristics of wrestling and rugby. It grassroots. The first move was to shift the offices was originally meant to develop self-defence At the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, from Nalukolongo in Kampala to Matugga. in addition to responses to attack and reflexes the sport morphed into enhancing The sport has now landed new partners of counter attack by individuals and defence grassroots after their activities were including the Indian High Commission by groups or teams. This is the only combative suspended. These included the; Uganda and Bank of India as well as prominent sport in which offence is an individual effort Kabaddi pro-league, secondary schools businessmen like Thomas Binu, Rajesh whereas defence is a group effort. It was championships that were scheduled for Chaplot and Daxesh Patel. The partnership introduced in Uganda in 2017.

46 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine ZURKaKHbAaddiNEH

FUN: Uganda Kabadddi Women teams are always training towards being one of the best

has yielded fruits as the federation has been able to procure a state-of-the-art mat from India. The more than Shs20m needed to bring that playing mat was also supported by the National Council of Sports (NCS). Other partners to the federation activities include; Graphic Systems, Rainbow Pavers and Tiles and Aziz Damani. Mulusa Academy in Luweero District has been chosen as the sport’s centre of excellence with great talents Douglas Mularira, an all-rounder one of the benefits. The KFU has been able to organise successful introduction courses to Kabaddi including one at Ndejje University on December 19, 2020. Another capacity-building exercise was held in Kagoma on January 9, 2021. Edgar Mujuni, the KFU chief executive, says the approach is more sustainable. “So, as a federation, we have shown up to the Ugandans that Kabaddi is one of the best team sports, young people can join for professional purposes,” Mujuni said. The federation has set a strategic and operational work plan that would see them at the world cup while also pushing for acquisition of their home to establish a Kabaddi arena.

Jul - Dec 2020 47 NCS Magazine sport of pool

WE SHALL MAKE IT HAPPEN: Pool Association of Uganda (PAU) president Bob Trubish (right) promises a vibrant new season Pool soldiers on Pool of Association Uganda chairman Bob Trubish hopes for a better season in 2021.

he sport of pool is unbeaten. a champion feels so great. It is not smarting from a The events that unfolded in 2019 a fluke since we were unbeaten,” dramatic year that were scary as Gumikiriza survived Zaimatt Nabafu, who won her first saw their president a 10-month battle with cancer. On league trophy in nine years, said Bob Trubish October 5, 2020, his cancer journey Chairman during the crowning ceremony in Timpeached and then re-instated. came to a close but he is anxious Bob Trubish Zzana. Luckily, the sport had played more with the all-clear cancer-free report. hopes for a Pool of Association Uganda than 70 per cent of the league and chairman Bob Trubish hopes for a “I am just thankful to God that I better season thus found a winner. am still alive,” Gumikiriza, popularly better season in 2021. With Nile in 2021. With Star-studded Ntinda Giants and known as Black Sheep, said. Special stopping their sponsorship Upper Volta were crowned men The triumph for the women Nile Special of the highly anticipated National and women league champions, team was special for Ritah Rita stopping their Open, Trubish promises a vibrant respectively. Upper Volta won the Nimusiima, who equalled Victoria sponsorship new season. title in their debut season while Namuyanja as the most decorated of the highly “Our focus in the new year is to get Ntinda Giants, who were formed in player in the Ladies’ league, after anticipated major partners that will support us 2017 as the ‘B’ team of Hot Pool, run the National Open and the senior winning the sixth league title with six National counted on a versatile squad that different clubs including; Hot Pool, league,” Trubish said. Open, Trubish included Ibra Sejjemba, national Mambule, Galz, Samona, CKI and As the cash-strapped federation team captain Gumikiriza, Joseph Upper Volta. promises a deliberates on how to move forward Kasozi, Glorious Ssenyonjo and “It is unfortunate that we did not vibrant new on the safe return of the sport whose Geoffrey Settumba to triumph finish the league but the feeling of season. venues, the bars, are still under

48 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine sport of pool

HARD WORK PAYS : Ntinda Giants and Upper Volta Pool clubs were crowned as the 2020 champions of the senior and ladies’ pool leagues respectively. lockdown, enhanced coronavirus testing for athletes would ease any lingering doubts. According to government regulations, all participants will be tested twice a week. For teams, that would mean adhering to costly testing protocols that match the standards. The activities have started in earnest with the Pool Cranes taking part in the Esther Lungu’s East and Southern Africa Ladies Singles and Men’s Team CASHING IN: Some of the winners show of their cheques tournament in Zambia.

Jul - Dec 2020 49 NCS Magazine FUFA UPDATES

Edgar Watson launches book inspiring children to take sports as serious business he year 2020 MY STORY: concluded with the FUFA CEO iconic SC Villa and Edgar Watson Uganda captain Edgar documents his Watson launching football life in Ta book about his experiences with a new and rare the aim of encouraging children to book. ‘Football take sports, especially football, as a My life, is a worthwhile venture. rich story of a The FUFA (Federation of Uganda legend in our time and a great Football Associations) Chief contribution Executive Officer (CEO) worked with to stories and Frank Kabushenga of TFK Luminary history on the to promote his book, Football My Life, sports arena’. aimed at encouraging fellow players to write. Watson talked about his own lack of abilities needed to excel yet he was powered by the right people and the will to excel. The book traces Edgar’s roots from his English father Sir Martin Watson Richard, who was among the thousands expelled by then President Idi Amin Dada in 1972. The book was launched at Fairway Hotel in Kampala, with the National Council of Sports General Secretary Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel as chief guest, in an evening punctuated with performances. Starting sports at St. Matia Watson’s Mulumba Catholic Parish in Old dream was Kampala, Watson was exposed pushed by to a variety of sporting activities famous including volleyball, which he columnist actually played to an elite level, lawn tennis and table tennis. Moses Like his parents, he also excelled Banturaki, in drama. He was in the performing who told arts group called Mendo headed by him to focus famous educationist Fagil Mandy. on football.

50 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine FUFA UPDATES

PAVING THE WAY: Dignitaries join Watson in celebrating the documentation of his life journey

He was also part of the St Matia Mulumba choir that sang for Pope John Paul II when he visited Uganda in 1992. But he chose football while at Makerere College, where he played for the school team in his Senior Two against Old Kampala. It is a memorable game in which he scored. Maybe also for the fact that comedian-turned-politician Kato Lubwama scored for the opposition. Watson’s dream was also pushed by famous columnist Moses Banturaki, who told him to focus on football. Watson struggled to match other boys as he was considered lazy and weak by peers even though no one doubted his skills. Watson scored the goal that brought Miracle to the Super League in 1996 as his uncle Samson Kaaya had done for KCC in 1974. He digs into the highly-charged player transfers then when SC Villa fans had to guard his house to block officials from Express to strike any deal. However, the pain of translating into a star hurt the family life balance. His wife Fiona recalls how a female fan came knocking at his door only to find her. An ensuing exchange left Fiona so bitter that she started calculating her outings with Watson. Sometimes it was because fans who took most of his time in such precious family meetings that Fiona disappeared from Watson’s public life. Fiona vividly explains the time when many thought Watson had HIV/ AIDS only to find it was an allergy to wheat that was eating his man up. The book is available in leading bookshops at Shs50,000.

Jul - Dec 2020 51 NCS Magazine All Sport

Isaac Zebra Ssenyange Retired professional boxer and former Bombers captain Isaac Zebra Ssenyange, commonly known as ‘Mando’ met his creator in late December after he was gunned down in Bwaise by security personnel as was confirmed by President Museveni. Ssenyange, 39, was a super heavy fighter who rose from amateur to professional level before turning pro. At the time of his death, Ssenyange was a Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) aide who also nurtured hundreds of kids into the game. He run his own boxing club, Zebra Boxing Club, in Bwaise where he was a cult hero of sorts. His death was a big blow to the boxing community as they lost a cog from the circles. Ssenyange’s fifteen-year amateur career was highlighted by 195 wins and 19 losses before turning professional when he debuted against Kenya’s Patrick Amote in 2012.

Dark year for sports

Jimmy Kirunda Jimmy Kirunda, a former Uganda Cranes player and manager went to meet his creator in May after collapsing near Hotel La Grande in Bwaise, a Kampala suburb. He was pronounced dead a Eugene “Ojuku” Katamba. few moments later. Kirunda is arguably the greatest Ugandan to The football family and the Ugandan play the game. He captained Uganda Cranes for ten years, playing sports fraternity in general were left in shock at three Africa Cup of Nations with the famed 1978 edition where when death robbed them of veteran sports Uganda Cranes lost to hosts Ghana 2-0 in the final, to record administrator Eugene “Ojuku” Katamba in Uganda’s best performance at the games as silver medallists. November. He had been back and forth in Kirunda won the CECAFA Cup with Uganda in 1969, 1970, hospital with illness. Katamba is credited 1973, 1976 and 1977. As manager, he repeated the feat in 1989, as one of the fathers of women football in 1990 and 1992. He played at SC Villa, Express and KCCA. He also Uganda which has since grown in leaps and played abroad in United Arab Emirates with Abu Dhabi Sports. bounds. Katamba was also the first chairman At KCC, he won three league titles (1976, 1977 and 1981) and of Kampala football league committee. He also two trophies (1980 & 1984). At Villa, he managed founded Wandegeya Football club. Before his a league title in 1982 and a Uganda Cup in 1983. Kirunda was death, Katmaba had been recognized by the top-scorer of the top-flight league in 1978 with 32 goals. He president for Federation of Uganda Football coached at various clubs including SC Villa, Bell FC, KCCA FC, Association (FUFA), Moses Magogo, during Buikwe Red Stars, and Cooperative FC. the 96th ordinary general assembly.

52 Jul - Dec 2020 NCS Magazine All Sport Wilberforce Pole Pole The motor rally fraternity was pegged back in December with the death of Wilberforce PolePole who succumbed to COVID-19. After getting treatment from Entebbe Hospital, where his situation worsened, he was moved to Victoria Hospital only to breathe his last there. Pole Pole was an active driver in the mid-2000s. He achieved his first career victory at Collines Milles Rally in Rwanda in 2016 with Joseph Bongole as his co-driver. He had last raced in the 2017 Pearl of Africa Rally. He would later keep showing up for other Federation of Motor sport Uganda events as a fan after leaving the steering wheel, that is how deep his love for the game run in his veins.

Nicholas Onegi P’Minga Uganda lost an iconic sports pillar in Mzee Nicholas Onegi P’ Minga in March after a long illness. He served as the assistant general secretary of the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) and also remembered for introducing a number of in Dark year for sports Uganda. He laid a foundation for games like rowing, dragon boat, canoe and kayak, handball, cycling and archery, among others. His role in promoting Olympics got him labelled “father of Olympic games” in Uganda.

Lenny Kikonyogo Haji Bruhan Sekibenga Former Rhinos and Rugby Sevens Cranes player Lenny Former Uganda Cycling Association Chairman Haji Bruhan Kikonyogo passed away under unclear circumstances Sekibenga passed away in December from Kiruddu Hospital where in March after being way from the rugby circles from he had been admitted with health complications. Sekibenga sometime. Kikonyogo, 35, represented Uganda at the dedicated his entire life to the wellbeing of local cycling. He 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India where championed and advocated for peace in the cycling association at Uganda was ejected at the Bowl quarters courtesy 0f a the peak of tensions between two rival factions. He is remembered 22-17 loss to Canada. While in India, he refused to train for mobilising finances from the business community whenever with the team on account of being tired, something that the cycling fraternity was in need. He was also a major stake holder saw the Uganda Rugby Union indefinitely ban him. in the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) which he concurrently served with cycling.

Ezra Bunyenyezi The former president of the Uganda Golf Union (UGU) died on Christmas Eve aged 76.The celebrated entrepreneur passed away in his sleep at the Aga Khan Hospital on December and just like that, Golf lost a father figure. Golf has long been known as a gentleman’s sport, and he was the perfect gentleman. He liked the fine things in life. God blessed him with it all, including discipline. He played his best golf in the 80s and 70s. During his reign as Golf Union boss, he handled journalists with respect, He realized the importance of publicity and the role journalists play in promoting the game.

Jul - Dec 2020 53 NCS Magazine Administration

FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO NATIONAL SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS/ FEDERATIONS FOR THE PERIOD 01ST JULY 2020 TO 31ST DECEMBER 2020

NATIONAL SPORTS ASSOCIATION/ FEDERATION AMOUNT (UGX)

Federation of Uganda Football Associations 5,000,000,000

Federation of Uganda Basketball Association 338,065,300

Gymnastic Association of Uganda 3,000,000

Uganda Association 71,095,700

Uganda Boxing Federation 30,510,000

Uganda Draughts Federation 3,000,000

Uganda Fencing Federation 13,000,000

Uganda Handball Federation 9,300,000

Uganda Kabadi Federation 18,248,000

Uganda Olympic Committee 13,325,000

Uganda Paralympic Committee 23,000,000

Uganda Rugby Union 29,900,000

Uganda Skating Association 55,880,000

Uganda Sports Climbing Federation 38,988,125

Uganda Sports Press Association 3,000,000

Uganda Table Tennis Association 13,734,634

Uganda Tae Kwondo Federation 3,000,000

Uganda Ultimate Frisbee Association 3,000,000

Uganda Weightlifting Federation 11,000,000

Uganda Woodball Federation 46,638,500

Grand Total 5,727,685,259

54 Jul - Dec 2020 CONFERENCE

FOOTBALL The Uganda Premier League returned this February after Uganda’s exploits at the CHAN Tournament in Cameroon.

ADMINSTRATION Sadik Nassiwu returns to take over from Hadijah Namanda (2017- 2021) as president of the Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF) ATHLETICS after their elective assembly at the start of February. A busy start to the year with the World Cross Country Championships (Australia) and World Indoor Championships (China) coming up in March

BASKETBALL Silverbacks need at least one win against Egypt, Morocco and ADMINISTRATION Cape Verde in the final qualifier (February 18-21) in Tunisia Uganda Olympic to guarantee a third straight appearance at the Afrobasket Committee set to usher tournament. in new leaders after president William Blick’s FOOTBALL second and final term comes to an end in Africa Cup of Nations February. There will also qualifiers (March be elections across the 22-30) provides various sports disciplines immediate chance both at federation and to soothe CHAN club level. hurt. During the CHAN encounters held in Cameroon in January/February, FOOTBALL Uganda stopped at the group stages Hippos coach after a goalless draw Morley Byekwaso with Rwanda, a 2-1 is gauging the defeat to Togo and progress of his a 5-2 collapse to side ahead of the Morocco. U-20 Africa Cup of Nations that runs February 14 to March 6 in Mauritania. contact us today: Plot 2-10, Coronation Avenue, P.O. Box 20077, Lugogo, Kampala -UGANDA Tel: +256 414254477 / 343688; Fax: +256 414 258350 Email: [email protected] www.ncs.go.ug

National Council of Sports - Uganda

@NCSUganda1

@NCSUganda1

VISION To provide an enabling environment for the investment in and promotion of sports in Uganda

MISSION Maximizing opportunities for all Ugandans to participate and excel in Sports

GUIDING PRINCIPLES Integrity, Trust, Commitment, Team Work