In Uganda, boxing is more than a sport—it’s a symbol of resilience, discipline, and national pride. But the path forward for the sport faces a complex crossroad as global bodies like the International Boxing Association (IBA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) navigate a fractured relationship. While the IOC has suspended its collaboration with IBA, ongoing discussions hint at potential resolutions. For Uganda, however, the conversation transcends individuals like Moses Muhangi, with boxing seen as a discipline belonging to the nation.
“Boxing belongs to Uganda as a nation,” stated Moses Muhangi, President of the Uganda Boxing Federation. “We are committed to ensuring our athletes have every opportunity to succeed, whether that means affiliating with IBA, World Boxing, or any other body recognized by the IOC.”
Uganda Boxing Federation’s affiliation to IBA, under the watch of UOC. Yet, if Uganda chooses to align with World Boxing or another IOC-recognized body to secure Olympic participation, Muhangi is ready to adapt. “Our priority is the athletes,” he explained. “If dual affiliation allows them to compete in the Olympics while staying connected to IBA activities, we will follow that path. We are simply waiting for guidance from the the government to determine our next steps.”
Closer to home, Uganda’s boxing stakeholders are looking outward for inspiration. Collaborating with the Cuban ambassador to Uganda, the UBF plans to benchmark Cuba’s exceptional boxing success. Study groups will analyze Cuba’s approach, from grassroots programs in schools to national management strategies. “Cuba has consistently produced some of the best boxers in the world,” noted Muhangi. “We want to understand what makes their system so successful, especially in grooming talent from a young age, and apply those lessons here in Uganda.”
As Uganda maps out its boxing trajectory, the sport’s future hinges on strategic decisions, both domestically and internationally. With guidance from the government and lessons from global powerhouses like Cuba, the hope is to keep Ugandan boxing in the ring—not on the ropes. “Our vision is clear,” Muhangi concluded. “We want to see Uganda’s boxers competing and excelling on the world stage, carrying the nation’s flag with pride and distinction.”
