Women’s Day: UBF lines up 14 all-female bouts

Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) will on Wednesday honour International Women’s Day by organising all-female bouts in the ongoing National Open Boxing Championship.

The National Open Boxing Championship got underway on Friday with the final set for Thursday.

UBF competitions manager Michelle Nakazzi says they decided to put a hold on all men’s bouts and that only female referees and judges will be called upon.

“We have decided to give full support to women. It is on record that UBF is one of those sports federations at the frontline of empowering women in sports, ” Nakazzi told New Vision Sport.

“It’s going to be a day for women starting with fights, officiation and emceeing. We call all our fans to join us and cheer on our own,” she added.

Rose Kabwama the UBF secretary of women's affairs said the program which will have at least 14 thrilling fights, is also meant to attract more people to the sport.

“UBF is on a campaign to entice more female boxers into the sport. We believe organising a female boxing event on a day like this is a plus towards our campaign,” she said.

Lukanga Boxing Club sensation Nadia Najjemba will be battling Kololo Boxing Club’s Fatuma Nabikolo in the bantamweight category in the headline fight.

Others include COBAP flyweight Brenda Muduwa who will be up against Angel Katushabe of the University of Pain Boxing Club.

Sharon Nayebare of Katwe Boxing Club will tussle it out with Aisha Namagembe of UBF Select while lightweight Suzan Namitala of Lukanga Boxing Club takes on Marion Angon from Saku Boxing Club.

Female referees will be led by centre referees Ruth Nakalema, Ramlah Nambi, Jane Nakafeero, Molly Lutwala and Julie Nyanzi with the assistance of ring judges Sandra Nanyonjo, Judith Aujo, Faith Akello, Ruth Nankindu.

Vision Group’s Becky Cynthia Nakimera and UBC’s Fifi Phiona Namiiro will be the event emcees to replace renowned ring announcer Muhamed Harunah Ssozi.

Under the tenure of president Moses Muhangi, UBF has been steadfast in promoting boxing among the female populace.

Currently, the likes of prospect Zahara Nandawula from Lukanga Boxing Club and Sharua Ndagire are knocking on the door to replace the likes of Olympian Catherine Nanziri, Commonwealth bronze medalist Teddy Nakimuli, Doreen Nassali and Hellen Baleke among others.