Over 120 players expected as East Africa Badminton Challenge marks ninth edition

Kibuli SS Badminton team captain Akbar Oduka and veteran player Mable Namakoye are eager to compete in the 9th City Tyres East Africa Badminton Challenge, taking place from October 14 to 18 at Lugogo Indoor Arena.

At the event launch at Mandela Auto Zone on Thursday, Oduka stated that his team will train diligently and aims to return as champions.

Namakoye, last year’s women’s singles runner-up and mixed doubles champion, aims to maintain her strong form in both events at this year’s tournament, sponsored by Linglong Tyres.

She thanked City Tyres for their sponsorship, noting that badminton supported her studies and helped her build valuable relationships. Uganda and Africa’s top player, Fadhila Shamika, who will miss the event due to international commitments, said the tournament has been instrumental in launching players’ careers, beginning in Uganda.

L-R: Suresh Babu, M.S. Saleem, Paresh Mehta, Tina Wanga, Herbert Bashasha, Simon Mugabi and Fred Kaweesi pose during the launch of the 9th City Tyres East Africa Badminton Challenge at the MAZ complex, September 17, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“It all began with us playing against each other, and that's when we realised we could elevate Uganda's standing internationally. And now, here I am. I want to express my gratitude to this tournament for its continued support of junior players,” Shamika said.

“I'm confident we'll see many more champions emerge in the future. My hope is to inspire numerous other players to put Uganda on the map and reach the pinnacle of African badminton,” Shamika stated.

The launch was attended by Tina Wang, Linglong’s Sales Director for the Middle East and North Africa; Paresh Mehta, Chairman of the Indian Association of Uganda; Suresh Babu, Chairman of Tamil Sangam Uganda; M.S. Saleem, UGASEWA Chairman; Uganda Badminton CEO Simon Mugabi; finance and marketing committee chairmen Mohamed Rafi and Venkata Krishnan; and City Tyres Marketing Manager Herbert Bashasha, among others.

Bashasha commended the Indian Association and Linglong for supporting badminton development in Uganda and encouraging participation from both local and international players.

City Tyres will also offer over 100 trophies and tournament attire. Bashasha also recognised Mugabi for his dedication in ensuring the success of each edition.

Mugabi noted that this year’s tournament is larger than previous editions, will run for five days, and will include all categories, including corporate teams. Corporate matches will be held on Friday at 6:00 pm and Saturday at 3:00 pm.

Paresh congratulated City Tyres and the Mandela Group of Companies, noting that the tournament has become a key platform for developing badminton in Uganda and the East African region. He also thanked other stakeholders for their ongoing commitment and support.

“And we are proud that this partnership has now reached another level, developing badminton and creating opportunities for our youth, bringing all diversities to the platform, promoting badminton over the years,” Paresh said.

“I think thousands of players have participated in nine years, gaining valuable experience, competing at a higher level, developing their skills, and bringing discipline and sportsmanship.

“And most importantly, this tournament has helped create a pathway for talented Ugandan players, who are showcasing their talent on the world platform. Through this, players have gained the opportunity to represent our beautiful country.” “When we give our young players an opportunity to compete, we are not simply developing a sport; we are developing their confidence, discipline, friendship, leadership, sportsmanship, and their dreams,” Paresh stated.

New Vision Sports editor Fred Kaweesi said it's always a thrill when the badminton challenge arrives in town.

“The East Africa Badminton Challenge is truly one of the most anticipated tournaments we cover. It's also a really special event because it's designed to connect with grassroots players and nurture young talent.” Kaweesi said. “So, as media, we feel privileged to attend events like this and witness the positive outcomes and achievements that stem from them. 

I'm delighted to see Fadhila here, Africa's top player, who has won the senior women's championship twice. This success isn't random; it's a direct result of the dedication and investment made by Linglong.”