Uganda sends 87-member delegation to inaugural ANOCA School Games

Uganda has dispatched a team of 87 individuals including athletes, coaches, and officials, to participate in the inaugural ANOCA (Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa) School Games, set to run from 26th July to 5th August in Algeria.

The delegation will compete in eight disciplines:Football – represented by Buddo SS,Beach Volleyball – Ngora High School, Table Tennis, Badminton, and Basketball 3x3 – Seroma Christian High School, which contributes the largest contingent, Tennis – Gayaza High School and Athletics and Swimming – represented by selected students from various schools

Leading the delegation is Patrick Okanya from the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA), accompanied by Rev. Canon Duncan Mugumya and Lydia Dhamuzungu from the Uganda Olympic Committee. Dhamuzungu also serves as Uganda’s Chef de Mission.

Dhamuzungu commended school administrators for their continued support in nurturing young sports talent, noting that such efforts have consistently elevated Uganda’s flag at international youth competitions.

At the team’s official send-off, Dr. Patrick Ogwel, General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, urged school administrators to sustain their support for talented athletes through sports scholarships.

He revealed plans for government subsidies to private institutions that actively promote sports development.

“Government gave Ndejje University over one million US dollars for sports projects. If you have any initiatives, come forward—we’ll support you,” Ogwel stated.

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to sports infrastructure development, citing ongoing construction of multi-purpose stadiums in Hoima and the Akibua Stadium, both set to be completed by the end of next year.

“I challenge ANOCA organizers to host the next edition in Uganda—we’ll be ready by then,” he added.

Ogwel further emphasized the importance of discipline among athletes while in Algeria, urging them to maintain Uganda’s positive image.

Team Uganda will be captained by footballer Dickson Baraza from Buddo SS, with Paula Nabukeera, a swimmer from British School, serving as assistant captain.

The delegation will travel in six batches, three departing tomorrow morning, and the remaining three on Wednesday.

These games act as a stepping stone to the African Youth Games set for next year in Senegal. Athletes who excel will have the opportunity to represent Uganda on that larger continental stage.

Dr. Ogwel encouraged all participants to stay focused and aim for success: “Let’s bring home medals. The youth games offer huge rewards for winners.”