The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) and Uganda Aquatics are proud to announce that swimmer Arthur Mwase will represent Uganda at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.
The 17-year-old from Sailfish Swim Club in Kampala will compete in the boys’ 100m, 200m, and 400m freestyle events, with the swimming programme running from 1 to 8 November 2026.
Arthur secured his place in Dakar through consistent, strong performances across the season. “I have been working towards this for the entire year and was able to qualify through strong performances throughout the year,” he said.
The highlight of his year so far came in Nairobi, where he won gold in the 100m freestyle with a time of 57.06 at the ANOCA Zone V Youth Games. His personal best over the distance stands at 56.30, alongside bests of 2:07.90 in the 200m freestyle and 4:33.70 in the 400m freestyle.
Dakar will not be his first time representing his country. Last year, Arthur donned national colours at the Africa Aquatics Junior and Senior Open Water Swimming Championships in Mombasa, Kenya, gaining valuable international experience in one of the sport’s most demanding disciplines.
“I am very excited to compete and happy that my hard work paid off. Beyond the opportunity to compete at such a high-level meet, I hope to qualify for even higher-level events like the World Championships and inspire the next generation of swimmers.”
Mwase trains and competes alongside his brothers, Mathew and Jaden, at Sailfish Swim Club. Away from the pool, the brothers share a passion for music and chess.
Athlete Profile
Name: Arthur Mwase
Born: 23 March 2009 (17 years old)
Club: Sailfish Swim Club, Kampala
Events: Boys’ 100m, 200m, and 400m freestyle
Personal Bests: 100m free (56.30) · 200m free (2:07.90) · 400m free (4:33.70)
Competition Dates: 1–8 November 2026
