Uganda Table Tennis Shifts Focus to Accra Youth Championships

The Uganda Table Tennis Association (UTTA) has recalibrated its national team strategy, shifting its attention to continental youth events scheduled for Accra, Ghana, from July 20-29.

This redirection comes after the ITTF-Africa East Regional Championships, initially slated for Port Sudan, were postponed due to instability in the region. Uganda had been a participant in the qualification process for the Sudan event, with Jemimah Nakawala, Parvin Judith Nangonzi, and Patience Anyango securing spots for the women’s team, while Joseph Sebatindira, Joshua Magaya, and Enock Balyewunya qualified for the men’s.

The UTTA had previously withdrawn its contingent from the Sudan championships, citing safety concerns based on assessments from the National Council of Sports and prioritizing the welfare of athletes and staff.

This setback follows another disappointment for Ugandan table tennis, as a junior women’s team was denied UK visas last month, preventing their participation in the 2026 ITTF World Championship in London.

Despite these challenges, UTTA President Cryus Muwanga confirmed that the players who qualified for the postponed Sudan event will represent Uganda in Accra, as they fall within the eligible youth age bracket and possess the requisite skill.

Muwanga encouraged the athletes to remain focused, noting the possibility of the regional championship being rescheduled to a new venue.

Ugandan players have a strong track record in previous youth championships, with Nakawala, Anyango, and Patra Nasirumbi winning Under-15 team gold in Lagos in 2025. Nakawala also secured a silver in the singles at the Youth Cup, while Sebatindira and Sharif Nsereko achieved gold and silver in the boys’ singles final.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)