Weightlifting: Uganda confirms team for continental showpiece in Egypt
More than 100 athletes took part in the national event, providing a competitive platform for selectors to assess form and readiness ahead of the continental showpiece.
Dan Tumukunde is among the nine players selected. PHOTO: Olivia Nakate
Uganda Weightlifting Federation (UWF) has named a team of nine weightlifters to represent the country at the Africa Weightlifting Championships scheduled for May in Ismailia, Egypt.
The squad was selected following impressive performances at the National Open Weightlifting Championships, which concluded on Sunday, March 1, at Ultimate Fitness Gym in Bugoloobi.
More than 100 athletes took part in the national event, providing a competitive platform for selectors to assess form and readiness ahead of the continental showpiece. The final team comprises five men and four women who stood out in their respective categories.
The men’s team includes Dan Tumukunde (108kg), Davis Niyoyita (60kg), Digital Kaweesi(74kg), Shaban Kimbowa(65kg) and Stephen Ojede(108kg). The women’s contingent is led by Lydia Nakidde (77), Aisha Namataka(86kg), Swabura Mutesi (64kg) and Vanessa Nassali (77kg).
Shaban Kimbowa, who delivered one of the most consistent performances at the national championships, has expressed confidence ahead of the African meet. “I have set a few targets starting with improving my training. I also want to win a medal at the African championships to show that we went there to perform and also qualify for the Commonwealth Games,” Kimbowa said.
The team will train under the guidance of head coach Khasim Nsubuga, with preparations set to begin this week at Kasubi Physique Gym. Nsubuga believes the selected athletes have the potential to compete strongly if adequately prepared.
“I am convinced with the team selected. They just need to be polished so that when they head to Egypt, they can gather the required points to qualify for the Commonwealth Games,” Nsubuga noted.
The Africa Weightlifting Championships are expected to attract athletes from over 20 countries, making the competition both a medal contest and a key qualification pathway for the Commonwealth Games. Uganda’s lifters will be aiming not only for podium finishes but also for crucial ranking points on the international stage.