Uganda has officially flagged off its national athletics team ahead of the 2026 Confederation of African Athletics African Senior Athletics Championships scheduled to take place from May 12 to 17 in Accra. The team, comprising athletes, coaches, and officials, departed on Sunday with optimism as Uganda seeks strong performances against some of Africa’s top track and field competitors.
The continental championships will also serve as an important qualification platform for athletes targeting major international competitions later this year. Uganda Athletics President Dominic Otuchet said Uganda has assembled a strong and competitive squad capable of challenging for medals at the championships.
Otuchet expressed confidence in both the experienced athletes and the emerging talents selected to represent the country.
“We believe this team can raise Uganda’s flag high in Accra. The athletes have prepared well, and we expect them to compete with determination and discipline,” Otuchet said. Officials who attended the flag-off ceremony urged the athletes to remain disciplined, focused, and patriotic while representing Uganda on the continental stage. Uganda heads into the competition encouraged by recent successes in middle and long-distance races at regional and international events.
Head coach Demayi Francis said the athletes are physically and mentally prepared for the challenge ahead, noting that the team underwent adequate preparations before departure. “We have prepared the athletes well, and the morale in camp has been very positive. Our target is to perform strongly and return home with medals,” Demayi said.
The women’s team includes Shida Leni competing in the 400 metres and mixed relay, Banura Maureen Akiiki in the 400 metres and mixed relay, Monica Akullu in the 200 metres, 400 metres, and mixed relay reserve, Chebet Maureen in the 800 metres, Knight Aciru in the 800 metres and 1500 metres, Chebet Esther in the 5000 and 10000 metres, Chepkwurui Nancy in the 3000 metres steeplechase, and Rebecca Chelangat in the 10000 metres.
The men’s team comprises Emmanuel Aboda in the 100 and 200 metres, Adoli Haron in the 400 metres and mixed relay, Omuka Kenneth in the 400 metres and mixed relay, Chan Wengo Geoffrey as mixed relay reserve, Dradriga Tom in the 800 and 1500 metres, Kibet Dan in the 5000 and 10000 metres, Chelimo Dolphine in the 5000 and 10000 metres, Cherop Samuel Simba in the 5000 and 10000 metres, Chemutai Leonard in the 3000 metres steeplechase, and Otim David Beckham in the long jump.
The team will be led by head coach Demayi Francis alongside coaches Sarah Nambawa and Pius Ocilaije, while Ssali Denis will serve as team physiotherapist-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
