Uganda Ludo Federation mourns iconic player Betty Nagadya
Nagadya passed away at Mulago Hospital after undergoing two months of treatment at the cancer ward.
Betty Nagadya, one of the Nansana Galaxy players who represented Uganda at the inaugural Africa Ludo Club Championship in Dubai. PHOTO: Silvano Kibuuka
Uganda Ludo Federation (ULF) has mourned iconic female player Betty Nagadya, who was laid to rest at her ancestral home in Manja, near Buloba in Wakiso District, after succumbing to cancer.
ULF president Hussein Kalule conveyed condolences to the ludo fraternity, Nagadya's family, and the sport's governing bodies following the death of one of the most influential ludo personalities not only in Uganda but also in the region and beyond.
"Her legacy as a player, champion, referee, coach, administrator, national leader, and advisor will remain an enduring part of the history and development of ludo in Uganda," Kalule said in a condolence message.
Born in 1965, Nagadya had a long and successful career in ludo, nurturing and mentoring many players, including men.
She started her career at Katwe Ludo Club before helping Nansana Galaxy win the national league title for more than 10 years. She later joined Nansana All Stars before finishing her club career at Entebbe Gerenge Club, where she played on two occasions.
Her club career spanned from 2003 to 2013 at Katwe, 2013 to 2015 at Entebbe Gerenge, 2015 to 2024 at Nansana Galaxy, and 2024 to 2026 at Entebbe Gerenge.
Nagadya was also an influential member of the Uganda Doves national ludo team.
In 2021, she won gold at the continental championship in Pretoria, South Africa, where Uganda won its first-ever All Africa Ludo Cup of Nations (AL-CON) title.
In 2022, Nagadya played a key role as Uganda won its first-ever World Ludo Cup, staged in Dubai and Nepal, where she also won a gold medal as part of the women's team.
She again helped Uganda defend the AL-CON title in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2023.
Beyond playing, Nagadya was a ULF-certified Grade B referee from 2007 and demonstrated professionalism and dedication in the administration and development of the sport.
In 2022, she was crowned the USPA Nile Special Ludo Player of the Year following her outstanding international and domestic performances.
Nagadya also served the federation for eight years as treasurer and vice-president in charge of finance.
Her passing is therefore not only a loss to her family and friends but also to ULF and the entire ludo fraternity globally.
Nagadya passed away at Mulago Hospital after undergoing two months of treatment at the cancer ward.