A group of eight Ugandan badminton players has departed for Douala, Cameroon, filled with optimism for the All Africa Senior Mixed Championships.
The team’s journey began on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, with a flag-off ceremony at the National Council of Sports offices.
The team’s travel itinerary included a flight to Ethiopia, followed by a connecting flight to Douala, Cameroon.
Seven players departed from Entebbe, while Gladys Mbabazi joined them from Denmark, where she currently trains.
NCS official Sarah Chellangat, speaking at the flag-off, urged the athletes to give their all, emphasizing the importance of representing Uganda with pride and discipline.
“Go and do it for your country and your individual benefit,” she encouraged, highlighting Uganda’s reputation for discipline and the opportunity to attract positive attention to the nation.
Team Coach Ivan Kalimunda expressed confidence in the team’s improved performance compared to previous championships.
“This time round, we are going into this championship with players who are much more exposed than all of those we have ever had,” he stated. “Therefore, we also hope to perform better this time round.”
Uganda’s previous success at the championships, held in 2023, saw Fadhila Shimika Ravi secure a gold medal in the women’s singles category.
Shimika, the defending champion, expressed her readiness for the challenge, citing a rigorous preparation program that included training camps in India and at Ndejje University. “Each round is important as any other round,” she noted.
The championship will run until February 16th, 2025, and will feature numerous talented players representing national teams from across Africa.
Team Uganda Roster
- Amos Muyanja (Captain)
- Fadhila Shimika
- Husina Kubugabe
- Muzafaru Lubega
- Augustas Owinyi
- Kenneth Mwambu
- Tracy Naluwooza
- Gladys Mbabazi
Coach: Ivan Kalimunda
