Funding boost enables She Cranes to press on with Celtic Cup preps
The funding is part of the sh750 million budget earlier submitted to facilitate the team’s participation in three major championships scheduled between November and January next year.
Racheal Nanyonga (left) and Nasiimu Mutesi during the training at Lugogo. (Photo by Gerald Kikulwe)
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The Uganda senior netball team, the She Cranes, can now fully concentrate on preparations for their upcoming international competitions after receiving sh465 million from the Government to support their engagements.
The funding is part of the sh750 million budget earlier submitted to facilitate the team’s participation in three major championships scheduled between November and January next year.
The She Cranes are preparing for the Celtic Netball Cup, which will take place November 26-30 in Glasgow, Scotland.
This will be followed by the African Netball Championship from December 9-14, 2025, at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund, Namibia, and later the Spar Protea Netball Series in South Africa in January 2026.
Yusuf Kamulegeya, treasurer of Netball Uganda, expressed gratitude, stating, "We are deeply thankful to the government, the Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, state minister Peter Ogwang and the National Council of Sports for this timely and much-needed support. This funding has come at a most opportune moment, and we are optimistic that the remaining balance will be forthcoming."
"With this allocation, Netball Uganda has been able to settle the outstanding arrears for the players and coaches who represented the country in the Vitality Netball Nations Cup 2025, with the exception of Irene Eyaru, Sandra Nambirige, Nasiimu Mutesi, Hanisha Muhameed, and Privas Kayeny, who are currently abroad," Kamulegeya added.
He noted that the federation continues to face financial challenges.
"We continue to grapple with significant challenges in mobilising resources," he said, explaining that borrowed funds have been used to support non-residential training and other essential needs.
"We fervently hope that contributions from well-wishers will enable the team to overcome these difficulties and perform optimally."
The 14-player squad for the Celtic Cup, boasting a wealth of experienced talent, and captained by veteran Racheal Nanyonga, also welcomes debutant Specioza Namukose.
The 14 players selected are: Mary Nuba, Ajio Lillian, Achola Lillian, Baagala Margret, Nakitto Christine, Nalwanja Shaffie, Nassaka Shakira, Aya Gloria, Specioza Namukose, Racheal Nanyonga (captain), Falidah Kadondi, Malisera Akello, Shadia Nassanga, and Namulema Fildauce.
The She Cranes are expected to travel to Scotland on Sunday, November 23, for the Celtic Netball Cup at the Emirates Arena.