The Uganda Table Tennis national team has quickly settled into life in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, shrugging off the desert heat and diving into final preparations for the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games.
Led by captain Jonathan Ssenyonga, the first group of players — Jemimah Nakawala, Judith Parvin Nangonzi, Joseph Francis Sebatindira, Joshua Magaya, and Ssenyonga himself — touched down in Riyadh on Wednesday and wasted no time hitting the tables for their first training session at the Riyadh University Students Recreation and Sports Center.
“We’re feeling great. The conditions are a bit different, but we’re adapting quickly,” said Ssenyonga after their opening workout. “The food is new, but it’s been nice so far. We’re just focused on our game and giving our best for Uganda.”
The team expects to be at full strength soon, with head coach Alvin Katumba and additional players, including Judith Mirembe, joining them ahead of Friday’s opening ceremony.
Uganda is fielding a strong contingent at this year’s Games, featuring athletes across Aquatics, Wrestling, Athletics, Boxing, Weightlifting, and Para-Powerlifting. The East African nation has claimed 11 medals in five editions of the Games since debuting in 2005 , and the table tennis squad hopes to add a few more to that tally.
In a sport where precision meets patience, Uganda’s paddlers are bringing both. Their early arrival and fast adjustment to Riyadh’s conditions could prove decisive when they face off against the Islamic world’s best.
“We know what’s at stake,” added Ssenyonga. “It’s about discipline, teamwork, and showing that Uganda can compete at any level.”
As the Games serve off, Uganda’s table tennis stars aren’t just adapting , they’re aiming to turn the heat of Riyadh into the fire that fuels their medal chase.
