Uganda begins IHF Zone V U18 and U20 tournament with wins
The men’s U18 youth team defeated hosts Ethiopia 44–39, while the U20 team beat Burundi 31–29 in their opening matches.
Uganda's Francis Ongom with the ball against Rwanda. Courtesy photo
Uganda started the International Handball Federation (IHF) Zone V U18 and U20 tournament on a winning note on Monday, May 4, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The men’s U18 youth team defeated hosts Ethiopia 44–39, while the U20 team beat Burundi 31–29 in their opening matches.
In the U20 category, Uganda is in Pool A alongside Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan. Pool B consists of Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Djibouti.
In the U18 category, Uganda is in Pool B with Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Burundi. Pool A features Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Djibouti.
Willy Mayanja, the Uganda Handball Federation technical director, praised the teams for their unexpectedly strong performance.
“The two games were tough, but it is good that we won them. We did not have enough preparation due to logistical challenges, but the boys were determined and charged up, which helped us get the results,” Mayanja said.
On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Uganda will face South Sudan in the U20 category, while the U18 team will play Burundi in must-win fixtures to secure a place in the knockout stages.
IHF U18 results
Uganda 44 Ethiopia 39
U20 results
Uganda 31 Burundi 29
Today
U18 Fixtures
Uganda v Burundi
South Sudan v Ethiopia
Kenya v Tanzania
Djibouti v Rwanda
U20 fixtures
Uganda v South Sudan
Kenya v Burundi
Tanzania v Ethiopia
Rwanda v Djibouti