Akii-Bua Memorial concludes as Uganda Athletics shifts focus to Commonwealth Games

The 24th edition of the Akii-Bua Memorial Track and Field Championships was successfully held at Uganda Christian University (UCU), Mukono on June, Saturday 13, 2026, with Uganda Athletics (UA) now turning its attention to the upcoming National Track and Field Championships and major international competitions.

Although the Akii-Bua Memorial is one of Uganda's most prestigious athletics events, this year's edition attracted only a limited number of elite athletes. The competition came at a time when many of the country's top performers had already secured qualification standards for major international events, including the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, scheduled for July 23 to August 2, and the World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon, USA, from August 5 to 9.

Another factor that affected participation was the nature of the competition venue. Athletes competed on a cinder track rather than a modern tartan surface, a challenge that made it difficult for competitors to post fast times.

Despite these challenges, the championships still produced exciting performances. One of the biggest attractions was the return of Uganda's middle-distance star Ronald Musagala, who was making a comeback after a lengthy absence from competition.

Musagala featured in the men's 1500 meters, where he finished third in a time of 3:51.2 minutes. The race was won by Uganda Prisons' Silas Chemutai, who crossed the finish line in 3:49.1 minutes.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) coach Raphael Kasajja praised his athletes for delivering commendable performances despite the difficult running conditions.

"We have performed well considering the type of track we competed on. Going forward, we hope these championships can be held on a better track even when Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, remains unavailable for athletics competitions," Kasajja said.

His remarks reflected concerns shared by many coaches and athletes regarding the need for improved facilities to support athlete development and performance.

Meanwhile, Uganda Athletics president Dominic Otucet revealed that the federation's immediate focus is now on preparing athletes for the Commonwealth Games and the World Athletics U20 Championships.

"Apart from the National Championships, our concentration is now on the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon. Later this week, we shall announce the team for the Commonwealth Games and outline our preparations. We shall also unveil the team heading to Oregon," Otucet said.

With the Akii-Bua Memorial Championships concluded, Uganda Athletics is now shifting attention to the final event on its domestic track and field calendar; the National Track and Field Championships. The competition is scheduled for June 26-27 at UCU Mukono and is expected to attract the country's top athletes.