Uganda volleyball makes strides as both teams qualify for continental showpiece

Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF) President Sadik Zaid Nasiwu says qualifying both the men's and women's national teams for this year's African Nations Championships is proof that volleyball in Uganda is making steady progress and deserves greater support.

The men's Volleyball Cranes will represent Zone V at the 2026 Men's African Nations Championship in Kinshasa, DR Congo, from September 7 to 21 after qualifying through the regional tournament.

The Lady Volleyball Cranes also secured their place at the Women's African Nations Championship in Nairobi, Kenya, from August 23 to September 5 after an unbeaten campaign in the Zone V qualifiers.

Both tournaments carry high stakes, with the continental champions earning Africa's direct qualification place for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The men's championship will also determine Africa's qualifiers for the 2027 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Cup.

Nasiwu said qualifying both national teams for Africa's biggest volleyball competition reflects the progress Uganda has made over the last few years.

"Having both our men's and women's teams at the African Championship is a major achievement for Uganda volleyball. It shows we are growing, but we must now compete consistently against Africa's best and keep improving every year," Nasiwu said.

Uganda's men's team will face hosts DR Congo, Egypt, Algeria, Libya, Cameroon, Rwanda, Tunisia, Chad, Morocco, Kenya, Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Central African Republic, and Zimbabwe.

The federation president, however, believes success will depend as much on mentality as on talent.

"The psychology of our teams must be strengthened because talent alone is not enough. Players must believe they belong among Africa's best, compete with confidence, and embrace every challenge without fear," Nasiwu said.

Uganda's recent performances suggest that belief is beginning to grow.

The Lady Cranes dominated the Zone V qualifiers, defeating South Sudan and Burundi to qualify unbeaten, while captain Joan Tushemerirwe was named Most Valuable Player. Katreena Odermatt, Scovia Alungat, and Shamirah Kalanzi also collected individual awards.

The men's team also impressed despite losing to regional giants Kenya, registering victories over Burundi, South Sudan, and Tanzania as young players John Bosco Opira, Owen Omonding, Willington Talemwa, Duke Kyomukama, and Mohammed Iga continued their development.

Nasiwu believes Uganda already has enough talent to compete with Africa's best if given adequate support.

"We have talent in Uganda, but we need a deliberate effort to bring it together. We need resources and time. Even the individual awards show how good these players are," he said.

The national teams continue to benefit from experienced coaches, with Shilla Omuriwe leading the men's team and Protus Soita Barasa guiding the women's side.

However, the continental assignments come as the Uganda Volleyball Federation continues working to meet the requirements of the National Sports Act. The federation is among the sports bodies that were given additional time by the National Council of Sports to complete the registration process.

Once the process is completed, the federation will remain eligible for government funding and official recognition under the new law. Athletes can also continue to receive support through the Uganda Olympic Committee and Uganda Paralympic Committee where necessary.