Uganda Baseball eyes growth through regional expansion

The Uganda Baseball and Softball Association (UBASA) is focusing on revamping the national league and expanding the sport's reach across Uganda following the national team's participation in the WBSC Baseball5 qualifiers for the African Baseball Championship.

Currently ranked 30th in the world, Uganda is using this experience as a springboard for growth.

Kaboggoza Ibrahim, head coach of the Uganda national Baseball team, expressed optimism about the future, stating, "This qualifier acts as a catalyst for reenergizing morale among athletes who had lost hope due to funding challenges. There is a renewed commitment from the association to take the game further." The association's primary goal is to make baseball accessible nationwide through structural changes to the league system.

UBASA plans to transition from a national league format to regional championships, making participation more accessible and cost-effective. "We are changing the league structure to give each region a chance to compete," Kaboggoza explained. The association is building on its existing school-based club system while expanding university outreach programs.

Key to this expansion strategy are partnerships with local and international organizations. UBASA is collaborating with the Afro-Unity Sports Foundation, district sports officers, and global partners including the LA Dodgers and Japanese Embassy to secure equipment and volunteer support. "We're training sports teachers and local coaches nationwide while registering new clubs that meet our membership standards annually," Kaboggoza noted.

The development plan emphasizes youth engagement and gender equality, with mixed-gender teams and equal opportunities for all athletes. "We're strengthening our talent pipeline through coaching clinics, workshops, and competitions like the Schools Cup," the coach added. UBASA maintains strong ties with the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), leveraging these relationships to create international competition opportunities for Ugandan athletes.

Despite progress, funding remains a significant challenge. "We've qualified for international events but couldn't attend due to financial constraints," Kaboggoza admitted. "With proper support, Uganda can shine globally." The sport's inclusive nature and growing popularity provide a solid foundation for development.

UBASA will measure success through tracking club growth, athlete participation, and regional competition performance. "We're focused on monitoring how new clubs develop and how different regions embrace the sport," Kaboggoza concluded, outlining a clear path for baseball and softball's growth in Uganda.