Uganda sends 12 for Africa Swimming Championships in Algeria

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Uganda will be represented by twelve swimmers at this year’s Africa Aquatics Swimming Championships, featuring elite competition for seniors, juniors and masters in Oran, Algeria, from May 5 to May 10, 2026.

The team is led by captain Avice Meya, who is among three senior swimmers on the team alongside Gloria Muzito and Tendo Mukalazi. The junior members include Jordan Jolly Ssamula, Mary Peyton Suubi, Ethani Ssengooba, Tara Kisawuzi, Kyle Christian Kaweesa, Peterson Inhensiko and Daniel Rukundo Nuwagaba.

Master’s swimmer Peter Ssebanakitta is also on the team, which has travelled with coach Peter Mugisha, also a master’s swimmer, and Uganda Aquatics president Moses Mwase as the head of delegation.

The six-day continental event serves as a major hub for African aquatic development, featuring both swimming and open water events ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

Kaumi is targeting matching some of his elder brother Tendo Kaumi, who could not make it to the team because of academic commitments in Hungary.

“I’m more than ready, having prepared well with my coach for this event. I’m targeting posting good times that will earn me at least 600 World Aquatics points and above,” Kaumi said.

“I’m extremely excited to be able to represent the country on the continental stage because it shows that all the hard work I have put in since I was a young kid is finally paying off and fulfilling my goal of representing the country.”

Flagging off the team at the Elite Swim and Gym in Ntinda on Saturday, Mwase urged the swimmers to maintain discipline and teamwork, reminding them that they are representing Uganda at the championship.

Mwase said Meya’s selection was aimed at inspiring more girls to take up the sport, given the high attrition rates among female swimmers after they turn 18.

“She has been in the pool for a very long time and is doing well. She has inspired a generation of swimmers doing wonderful times, and it is something to be proud of,” Mwase noted.

“We want to see our swimmers excel at the highest level so that they can continue representing us at other major events. Represent us with pride, do your very best, and hoist our flag high.”