Uganda U18, U20 teams target medals at East Africa Championships

Uganda's U18 and U20 athletics team has set its sights on surpassing last year's medal tally as they prepare for the Eastern Africa Championships in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, this Friday and Saturday.

A 30-member delegation, including 25 athletes and five officials, departed for the regional competition on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Last year, Uganda secured 13 medals (7 gold, 4 silver, and 3 bronze) at the same event. Dominic Otucet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) and head of the delegation, expressed confidence in the team's readiness. "This is our largest junior squad yet. We believe they are well-prepared to bring home more medals," Otucet said.

Sarah Chelangat, Assistant General Secretary of the National Council of Sports for Technical Affairs, urged UAF to prioritize developing short-distance runners. "I'm pleased to see a balanced team of sprinters and long-distance athletes. Uganda has potential in sprinting, and we must utilize facilities like Namboole, Aki-Bua, and Hoima stadiums to nurture this talent," she emphasized. Chelangat also advised athletes to maintain discipline and focus on education for life after sports.

Uganda has struggled to replicate Davis Kamoga's 1996 Olympic 400m bronze medal success in sprint events. The U18 team includes Dan Kipyeko, Akram Salimo (1500m), Kezia Chebet, Isella Chebet (800m), Mary Atyang, Agnes Acan (100m/200m), Dison Osuna (200m/400m), and Terry Semwanga (100m/200m).

The U20 squad features Victor Chrotich, Hosea Chemutai, Charity Cherop, Risper Cherop, Yeko Bentalin (3000m/5000m), Jacob Sande, Isaiah Chebet (1500m), Ivan Ayikoecora (200m/400m), Felister Chekwemoi, Brenda Chekwemoi (1500m), Mary Awar (100m/200m/400m), and Peace Mbabazi (200m/400m).

Team officials include Ziana Cheptoyek, Isa Kosgei, Pius Ocilaije, Peter Okoel, and Dominic Otucet. With a mix of experienced and emerging talents, Uganda hopes to dominate both track and field events at the championship.