Uganda’s Wheelchair Rugby gets major boost with sh270m equipment donation

Uganda’s wheelchair rugby ambitions have received a transformative lift following a donation of specialized equipment worth over sh270 million.

The contribution, led by former British Olympian John Greatex and partners from Italy and England, marks a turning point for the Uganda Wheelchair Rugby Federation (UWRF).

The donation includes nine professional-grade rugby wheelchairs and a range of spare parts, officially handed over to UWRF president Jayrus Mukota in a ceremony attended by Uganda Paralympic Committee officials, including General Secretary Innocent Tumwesigye and Patrick Synole.

Until now, the federation had been operating with just three standard wheelchairs—a shortage that had stalled plans to launch a competitive league. “We had reached a level where we could start the league, but without the required equipment, it wasn’t possible. Our partners have stepped in at the right time,” Mukota said.

While the equipment gap has now been addressed, Mukota emphasized the need for proper playing facilities. “We need specialized fields for persons with disabilities. Currently, we’re using standard fields that don’t meet our needs,” he explained.

According to the Uganda Paralympic Committee’s director of administration, the donation lays the foundation for forming Uganda’s first national wheelchair rugby team—one capable of competing at international level. “Wheelchair rugby is among the 19 Paralympic disciplines we oversee. With technical expertise from Europe, this is a big step toward preparing for the 2028 Paralympic Games,” he said.

As part of the partnership, European experts will conduct a three-day training clinic at Lugogo, introducing national team players to advanced drills and tactical skills in wheelchair rugby.

Greatex, who famously carried the Olympic Torch in 1948, shared his personal connection to Uganda. “I lived in Uganda for 15 years and trained here as an athlete. Each time I returned to the UK, I would outperform my peers. Uganda holds a special place in my heart, and I wanted to contribute to its sporting growth,” he said.

With the new equipment now in place, UWRF is set to launch league action soon—ushering in a new era for adaptive sports in Uganda.