Captain Jolly Alimo leads Uganda’s charge for Hockey World Cup spot in Namibia

Uganda’s U21 Women’s National Hockey Team captain, Jolly Alimo, is optimistic about steering her team to a historic World Cup qualification as they prepare to compete in the Junior Africa Cup of Nations from April 18–25 in Windhoek, Namibia.

Alimo, known for her leadership and passion, expressed a strong desire to emulate the achievements of the Uganda Cubs (U17 football team), who recently qualified for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, set for November.

“I am leading the team to Namibia with only one target: qualifying for the Junior World Cup and emulating the Uganda Cubs,” Alimo stated confidently.

The 17-player squad was officially flagged off on Tuesday afternoon at a ceremony held at Copper Chimney, Lugogo, and is now gearing up for fierce competition in Group A, initially drawn with South Africa, Namibia, and Ghana. However, Ghana has since withdrawn, leaving Uganda to focus on overcoming the hosts, Namibia, and African giants South Africa.

Hockey U21 women's team head coach Moses Nsereko speaking during the flag off ceremony

James Kasumba, Sports Officer at the National Council of Sports (NCS) and in charge of hockey, flagged off the team with words of encouragement:

“Great teams win championships, while great players win games. It’s up to you to choose what matters most now, but emerging victorious as a team is more crucial.”

He also emphasized discipline as a cornerstone of success in both sports and life, citing examples of global sports icons.

Head coach Moses Nsereko acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead but remained confident in the team’s preparation and mental fortitude.

“We know the level of competition, especially from teams like South Africa and Namibia, but our goal is to reach the semi-finals and qualify for the World Cup,” Nsereko stated.

The Ugandan delegation includes 17 players and eight officials, one of whom (Kenneth Tamale) will serve as an umpire during the tournament—a rare opportunity showcasing Uganda’s growing presence in African hockey, both on and off the pitch.

The squad is headlined by captain Jolly Alimo, with Winnie Nandi and Hilda Balondemu serving as vice captains. The full player list includes Anita Atim, Hajirah Namwase, Ingrid Tendo, Irene Atim, Janate Nakato, Juliana Sserunjogi, Judith Babirye, Nelly Temaiya, Pauline Ninsiima, Rhema Ahaire, Stalla Nankinga, Grace Natabo, and Daniellah Amara.

The team will be under the technical guidance of Head Coach Moses Nsereko, assisted by Martin Okello and Nku Davis from Trinidad & Tobago. Bridget Baine serves as the Team Manager, with Emmanuel Ewochu as the Team Doctor, and Stanley Tamale heading the group as the Leader of Delegation.