Uganda badminton team eyes stronger show at International Challenge

After securing bronze medals at the All-Africa Senior Individual Championship in Cameroon, which concluded on Sunday, Uganda’s badminton players are now setting their sights on a stronger performance at the Uganda International Challenge, which begins today at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.

The team returned from Cameroon on Monday and immediately began preparations for the international event, where they aim to earn valuable ranking points for upcoming competitions like the Commonwealth Games and African Games.

Husina Kobugabe, who won gold at the 2023 African Games in Ghana, is optimistic about her chances.

“All of us who competed in Cameroon are playing in this tournament. I’m ready to fight, even though my opponent is from Switzerland, a strong badminton nation. I don’t know her, but I’m confident in my abilities,” Kobugabe said.

Simon Mugabi, CEO of the Uganda Badminton Association (UBA), highlighted the significance of the event.

“The 11th International Challenge is a major tournament, attracting 250 players from around the world. This is a great opportunity for Ugandan players to compete and gain experience,” Mugabi noted.

The tournament offers 4,000 ranking points for the winners in both the men’s and women’s categories. Additionally, quarterfinalists will compete for a share of the $17,500 prize money.

In Cameroon, Uganda claimed three bronze medals: two in the individual events through Husina Kobugabe and Fadilah Shamika, and one in the women’s doubles by Tracy Naluwooza and Fadilah. The team also finished fifth overall in the team events.

The Uganda International Challenge has drawn participants from 14 countries, including Canada, India, Azerbaijan, Switzerland, Egypt, England, Malaysia, and Iran, among others.