Women Boxers for Rio Olympics

For the first time in the history, Uganda may be represented by women boxers in this year's Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Eight women boxers have been summoned to prepare for the Games due in Brazil in August.

The female boxers are part of the squad of 31 national boxers that is gearing up for the Africa Olympic qualifiers due in Younde, Cameroon next month March 9-20.

Anxiety is higher among the women boxers currently loading punching power at Lugogo.

For lightweight Dianah Atwine of UPDF the qualifiers are a big opportunity for her career on the ring.

"I have high hopes of making it to Rio because I am in better shape mentally and physically this time," says Atwine who also featured in the World Women Boxing Championship in Korea in 2014.  

Atwine who took up boxing in 2007 encouraged other women to take up boxing which she said is a healthy sport.

"This (boxing) is not a fight or war. It is just a game meant for all human beings and not only for men," says the soldier.

Flyweight Grace Amulen of Police Boxing Club also looks forward to featuring in Rio. "So long am fit, I belief I can make it. I enjoy boxing," she said.

Uganda boxing Federation (UBF) secretary Simon Barigo the women sector is a key area in which the federation hopes to invest heavily.

"We have a very huge potential in women boxing. Our only problem is lack of funds because unlike men women and girls need special attention," he said.

Other women boxers in the team include Moureen Ajambo (flyweight), Winnie Asio and Lydia Nantale (lightweight), Hellen Baleke, Dianah  Turyanabo and Resty Nalunga (middleweight).

Barigo, however, appealed for sh288m in sponsorship for crucial preparations and facilitation for the Olympic Qualifiers.