Luanda, Angola – Uganda’s medal tally at the fourth African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola, rose to three bronze medals following strong performances by Joseph Sebatindira, Jemimah Nakawala, and Keren Chelimo.
Uganda’s first medal came from Keren Chelimo, who claimed bronze in the women’s 3000m race. Her endurance and tactical racing underscored the nation’s growing talent in athletics. They highlighted the role of sports in enhancing Uganda’s soft power, promoting a positive national image, and fostering youth engagement at the continental level.
In table tennis, Joseph Sebatindira and Jemimah Nakawala each secured bronze in the singles competition. Twelve-year-old Sebatindira, a Primary Five pupil at Nakasero Primary School, advanced smoothly through the group stages before losing 1–4 to Tunisia’s reigning Under-15 African Champion, Youssef Aidli, in the semi-finals. He then narrowly lost 2–3 to Nigeria’s Mathew Fabunmi in the third-place playoff.
Fifteen-year-old Nakawala, a Senior Three student at Kibuli Secondary School, also reached the semi-finals but was defeated 1–4 by Egypt’s Elbadawy. She recovered in the third-place match, defeating Algeria’s Morice Tania 3–2 to earn bronze. Both athletes had recently represented Uganda at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Head coach Alvin Katumba praised their diligence and focus, noting that two continental medals are a remarkable achievement.
Uganda’s delegation also included competitors in Swimming, Dance Sport, and 3×3 Basketball. Swimmer Isaac Kuc finished tenth overall in the 100m freestyle, posting 0:56.71 as a reserve athlete.
The achievements of Chelimo, Sebatindira, and Nakawala highlight Uganda’s emerging youth talent and emphasize the broader impact of sports diplomacy. Beyond athletic success, their performances strengthen Uganda’s international visibility, promote regional cooperation, and inspire the next generation to engage competitively and culturally on the global stage.
Jemimah Nakawala and Joseph Sebatindira after both winning bronze in the singles competition, Keren Chelimo, bronze winner in the women’s 3000m race . (Courtesy Photos)
