Mubende to host 2026 National Primary Schools Ball Games
The Central Region-based district was selected after the final inspection of facilities by officials from the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (UPSSA) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports.
Children receiving awards during the previous National Primary Schools Games in Tororo
The 2026 edition of the National Primary Schools Ball Games and Special Needs Education (SNE) Championship will be held at Mubende Army Secondary School in Mubende District. The games will run from August 24 to September 4.
The Central Region-based district was selected after the final inspection of facilities by officials from the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (UPSSA) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports.
UPSSA President William Bwambale said they were impressed with the facilities, including health, water, accommodation, and playing fields that will be used during the ten-day championship.
"We are convinced with the facilities in place. I know we shall be able to host hundreds of participants and officiating officials that are expected to take part during the championship," said Bwambale.
According to Bwambale, all 178 districts, cities, and municipalities are expected to take part in the tournament, which caters to both mainstream learners and those with special needs.
He said the annual championship is seen as a vital platform for developing grassroots talent and promoting inclusive sports.
The competition will feature under-12 and under-14 boys and girls competing in netball, football, volleyball, handball, woodball, and Special Olympics categories.
For learners with special needs, events include showdown and goalball for the visually impaired, football and netball for the hearing impaired, and boccia and sitting volleyball for those with physical disabilities.
Pauline Musigire, the Vice President in charge of Administration, said each district, city, and municipality must ensure their teams are registered with UPSSA upon arrival in Mubende and will be responsible for their athletes' transport, feeding, and welfare.
He said each team must be accompanied by at least two responsible teachers, one of whom must be female, to ensure proper supervision and safety. The host district will manage overall security throughout the event.
According to Musigire, they opted to kick off the national championship with a technical meeting set for August 25 to finalize rules, regulations, and health protocols. Officials have been warned to strictly follow standard operating procedures from both the health and education ministries. Only bona fide learners will be allowed to compete, and violations will result in disciplinary action.