UMEA Solidarity Games a unifying force for muslims, says Prince Nakibinge

Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu has called on all Muslim communities to rally behind the Uganda Muslim Education Association (UMEA) Solidarity Games, describing the event as a unifying factor for Muslims across the country.

Speaking on Sunday while officiating the climax of the 12th edition of the games, hosted at Nkoma Secondary School in Mbale City, Nakibinge cited sports as the most effective channel for unifying Muslims at both local and national levels.

"Let us spread the essence of these games to every school leader in the area, because this is the only way to achieve unity, talent identification, improved physical and mental health, increased social cohesion and inclusion, and enhanced personal development for youth, including leadership and resilience," Nakibinge said.

According to the prince, sports foster a sense of belonging and community pride, bringing together diverse individuals to form new friendships, build trust, and reduce social isolation.

The 2026 UMEA Solidarity Games came to a successful close, with Gombe Secondary School once again asserting their dominance by emerging as overall champions after collecting five gold medals. Kibuli Secondary School followed closely in second place with four gold medals in a highly competitive showcase of school sports.

In football, Kyaddondo Secondary School clinched the boys' title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Masaka Secondary School in a tense final. In the girls' category, Kawempe Muslim Secondary School continued their remarkable reign, securing a record-extending seventh title after defeating hosts Nkoma Secondary School 2-0. Their sustained success cements their reputation as the undisputed powerhouse of the competition.

In netball, Kawanda Secondary School reclaimed top honours following a thrilling final win against Kadugala Secondary School, while defending champions Greenlight Islamic Secondary School settled for third place.

In volleyball, Kinaawa High School–Mugongo and Mbogo Mixed extended their dominance by capturing the girls' and boys' titles respectively.

The annual competition attracted 47 schools, featuring 122 teams and 1,591 student-athletes competing across football, netball, volleyball, handball, table tennis, badminton, scrabble, and chess.

Hosted by Nkoma Secondary School, this year's games were held under the theme "Faith, Unity and Excellence through Sports," highlighting both competitive spirit and togetherness among participants.

UMEA Games winner

FOOTBALL

Boys
Kyadondo SS
Girls
Kawempe Muslim A

NETBALL

Girls
Kawanda SS

HANDBALL

Boys
Gombe SS
Girls
Gombe SS

VOLLEYBALL

Boys
Mbogo Mixed

VOLLEYBALL

GIRLS
Kinaawa High School Mugongo

BADMINTON

Boys

Kibuli SS
Girls
Mbogo High School

TABLE TENNIS

Boys
Kibuli SS
Girls
Kibuli SS

CHESS

Boys
Kibuli SS
Girls
Gombe SS
Boys
Gombe SS

SCRABBLE

Girls
Gombe SS