KAMPALA — Uganda lit up the courts during the 2025 Uganda Para Badminton International, held from July 1–6, with an inspired showing that saw the host nation bag nine medals in front of an energized home crowd. While India topped the medal standings overall, it was Uganda’s grit, grace, and growth that stole the show, especially with Sarah Nazziwa soaring to gold in the WS-WH 1 + WH 2 category.
Nazziwa’s gold medal was a moment of triumph not just for her but for Uganda’s entire para-sports community. Her victory brought a deafening roar inside the arena and put a shining exclamation point on the country’s determination to rise in the global para-badminton scene. She stood tall as Uganda’s lone gold medalist in a field of experienced international athletes.
In addition to Nazziwa’s gold, Uganda secured three silver medals: Elizabeth Mwesigwa teamed up with Sumin Mutesi for a spirited performance in the Women’s Doubles SL3-SU5 exhibition, then followed up with another silver in Women’s Singles SL3. In the Mixed Doubles WH1-WH2, Sylvia Nakanda and India’s Haris Mythili Srikumar clinched silver, showing great international partnership and tactical finesse.
The bronze medals showcased Uganda’s strength in depth. Juliet Mary Namunoga, Merida Nakaima Birungi, and Harriet Nakayima each earned bronze in Singles SL3 and SL4 categories, while Julius Obura and Hassan Mubiru rounded things out with a gritty performance in Men’s Singles SL4. These results highlight a growing pool of talent, discipline, and national pride among Uganda’s para-badminton athletes.
With the 2025 event now in the books, Uganda turns its focus to the upcoming Africa Para-Badminton Championships and the 2026 World Circuit. The ultimate dream? Qualification for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Judging by what we saw in Kampala, that dream is looking more achievable than ever.
