Uganda’s rising stars shine bright with nine medals in Nigeria

Uganda Performance
Gold medals: 4
Silver :1 
Bronze :4

Uganda wrapped up a successful campaign at the Africa U18 and U20 Athletics Championships in Abeokuta, Nigeria on Sunday, finishing with an impressive haul of nine medals.

The young and determined team of 19 athletes proved their bravery on the continental stage, clinching four gold medals, one silver, and four bronze, sending a clear message that the future of Ugandan athletics is in safe hands.

All four of Uganda’s gold medals came from the Under-20 category, showcasing dominance in long and middle-distance track events:Samuel Cherop stormed to victory in the 10,000m final, delivering a tactical and determined run.

Bentalin Yeko added another gold in the 3000m, continuing his meteoric rise on the junior stage. Charity Cherop reigned supreme in the 5000m, underlining Uganda’s strength in the women's distance races. Nancy Chepkwurui displayed brilliant finishing power to win gold in the 1500m.

Uganda's lone silver medal was earned by Risper Cherop, who secured second place in the Under-20 women's 5000m, adding to the country's success in distance events.

The bronze medalists also gave Uganda plenty to celebrate: Brenda Chewemoi earned bronze in the 1500m (U20) with a strong closing kick. Samuel Simba Cherop added to the Cherop family name with a bronze in the 5000m (U20). Jacob Sande fought hard to secure bronze in the 1500m (U20), further proving Uganda's depth in middle-distance events. David Beckham Otim, the only medalist in the U18 category, leaped to bronze in the long jump, highlighting potential beyond the track.

Head coach Issa Kosgei, who led the contingent, expressed pride in the team's achievements, attributing their success to focused preparation, team spirit, and the athletes’ hunger to succeed.

"I’m so proud of my team. They have made us and the country proud. The future of these athletes is bright, and I cannot wait to see how they perform at next year’s World U20 Championships in Oregon, USA," said Kosgei.

This strong performance is not just a medal count it reflects the growth of Uganda's grassroots athletics development. For years, Uganda Athletics has invested in nurturing young talent through schools, clubs, and regional competitions. 

The results in Abeokuta are a clear signal that those efforts are paying off.

With stars rising in both track and field, Uganda's future on the global athletics scene looks promising. The performance at this year’s continental junior championships sets the stage for even greater achievements in the near future especially with the World U20 Championships in 2026.