World-ranked stars headline Uganda International Badminton Tournament

The second edition of the lucrative Uganda International Badminton Tournament serves off this Wednesday morning at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, drawing close to 250 players for the pre-qualifier events in both men’s and women’s categories.

Uganda has entered 59 players, with 40 set to battle in the qualification round of 64 for places in the main draw of 32. The rest remain on the reserve list.

The City Tyre-branded tournament was officially launched at the company’s head office on 6th Street, Industrial Area. Marketing manager Herbert Bashasha applauded the Uganda Badminton Association (UBA) for its relentless efforts to grow the sport and pledged continued sponsorship.

“UBA’s effort is relentless because you can bring players from all over the world to compete in Uganda. As City Tyres, we shall continue to support badminton, and the fruits have already started coming with our players winning continental medals,” Bashasha said.

Uganda Badminton Association (UBA) CEO Simon Mugabi (center), City Tyres Marketing Manager Herbert Bashasha (right), and tournament referee Harriet Nattabi (left) at the launch of the 2026 Uganda International Badminton Tournament on February 17, 2026, at the City Tyres head office in the Industrial Area. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka

UBA CEO Simon Mugabi revealed that 256 foreign players from 41 countries have registered, with the tournament climaxing on Sunday. He emphasized Uganda’s consistency in hosting international events, which has boosted confidence among players planning their competitive calendars.

“This time, we are expecting a player ranked number 48 in the world in the men’s category and another ranked 71 in the women’s category to grace the 2026 Uganda International,” Mugabi noted.

The $20,000 prize money-based competition guarantees rewards for the top 16 players in both men’s and women’s singles. Winners will also earn 4,000 BWF ranking points, a major incentive for international stars.

In singles, the men’s and women’s champions will each receive $2,400, while runners-up will take home $1,300. Semifinalists will earn $1,000, and quarterfinalists will pocket $200. In doubles, winners will claim $1,600 each, runners-up $800, and semifinalists $300.

Uganda’s rising star Fadilah Shamika, fresh from winning singles gold and doubles bronze at the All-Africa Senior Championship in Botswana, is among the top seeds in the main draw. Gladys Mbabazi, who reached the round of 16 in Botswana, will also feature in the women’s main draw.

Meanwhile, Muzafar Lubega, eliminated at the same stage in Botswana, begins in the qualification rounds.

“We have to fight hard to qualify for the main draw, where only eight players will fill the remaining slots,” Lubega said.

With world-class talent, significant prize money, and valuable ranking points at stake, the Uganda International Badminton Tournament promises to be one of the most competitive and exciting events on the continent this year.