The inaugural Kabaka Coronation Badminton Tournament 2025 was a resounding success, bringing together top players and new talent to celebrate the 32nd coronation of the Kabaka of Buganda.
Held from August 8th to 10th in Kampala, Uganda, the event showcased thrilling competition and a promising future for Ugandan badminton.
Uganda’s Top Seed Praises Tournament Quality
Uganda’s current top seed, Muzafar Lubega, dominated the professional categories, securing two major titles: Men’s Singles and Mixed Doubles, with partner Gladys Mbabazi. Speaking after his victories, Lubega expressed his delight, praising the high level of competition and the inclusion of new, young players.
“We are delighted for Kabaka to include us, the Badminton fraternity, as a part of his 32nd Coronation celebrations,” Lubega said. “The event has had good competition; just I have been the most experienced. It is interesting that the sport has got new faces, and kids have been given open chances.”
A Legend Returns to the Court
The tournament also marked a triumphant return for badminton legend Godfrey Kivumbi, who last played in a major event 20 years ago. Kivumbi, a leading figure in the sport during the 1990s, won two titles in the Above 50 age category: Men’s Singles and Mixed Doubles with partner Anet Nakamya.
“This is a great opportunity because I couldn’t go on court to compete with fresh players because of my age, but I am happy that the opportunity in my life category arrived and I beat those I used to beat in my days,” Kivumbi shared, highlighting the importance of age-specific categories in keeping veteran players engaged.
Ndejje University Wins Overall Trophy
The competition featured 24 different events, with cash prizes and other awards given to winners and runners-up. Ndejje University emerged as the overall winner, outperforming corporate teams from City Tyres, Supreme, Topmix, Equity Bank, and Cafe Javas.
Government and Badminton Uganda Applaud Partnership
The event concluded with high praise from key officials. Buganda Government Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts, Robert Sserwanga, congratulated Badminton Uganda for their successful collaboration with the Kabaka.
“We are looking forward to continuing the relationship, with the Kabaka and Nnabagereka cup coming in,” Sserwanga stated, emphasizing the Kabaka’s commitment to nurturing talent.
Anet Nakamya, head of Badminton Uganda, welcomed the new partnership, announcing exciting new opportunities, including the sport’s addition to the Buganda School games and the upcoming Kabaka and Nnabagereka cups in March. This collaboration signals a new era of growth and development for badminton in the region.
Kabaka Coronation Badminton Tournament 2025: Key Winners
- Men’s Singles (Professional): Muzafaru Lubega
- Mixed Doubles (Professional): Muzafaru Lubega & Gladys Mbabazi
- Men’s Singles (Above 50): Godfrey Chriss Kivumbi
- Mixed Doubles (Above 50): Godfrey Chriss Kivumbi & Annet Nakamya
- Women’s Singles (Professional): Shamsah Rajab Mbiira
- Women’s Doubles (Professional): Husna Kobugabe & Gladys Mbabazi
