Uganda has officially unveiled a formidable team of 18 young athletes to represent the nation at the 4th CAA African Athletics U18 & U20 Championships scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria from July 16 to 20, 2025. The delegation, a blend of seasoned youth competitors and promising new talents, will compete in a range of track and field events, flying the Ugandan flag in what is expected to be one of the most competitive junior athletics meets on the continent.
Leading the charge on the men’s side is Samuel Simba Cherop, a rising star in middle-distance running, alongside David Beckham Otim, known for his impressive sprint finishes. Ernest Wananda and Jaffer Fadil Krube bring a blend of speed and tactical strength to the team, while long-distance prospects like Hosea Chemutai, Victor Cherotich, and Dan Kipyeko round out a dynamic male lineup. These athletes have consistently posted impressive times at local and regional meets, earning their spots through a rigorous selection process by the Uganda Athletics Federation.
The women’s squad is equally robust, featuring standout talents like Felister and Brenda Chepkwemoi, both of whom have dominated the 1500m and 3000m events in national school championships. They are joined by Nancy Chepkwurui and Keren Chelimo, known for their endurance and racing strategy. Bentalin Yeko and Keziah Chebet add depth to Uganda’s long-distance strength, while sprinters Isella Chebet, Charity Cherop, Risper Cherop, and Mary Awat are expected to make waves in the short-distance categories, reflecting the country’s growing versatility in athletics.
This championship arrives at a symbolic time, as Uganda celebrates 100 years of athletics under the theme #UgAthleticsAt100. The tournament will serve as a proving ground for these young stars, many of whom aspire to qualify for future World U20 Championships and ultimately the Olympic Games. Uganda has a strong tradition of producing world-class athletes like Joshua Cheptegei and Peruth Chemutai, and this new generation is poised to carry the torch forward.
As Nigeria prepares to host over 30 African nations, all eyes will be on Team Uganda to see whether its youth can replicate the country’s recent continental and global successes. The Uganda Athletics Federation, led by President Dominic Otuchet, has emphasized athlete welfare, psychological readiness, and tactical preparation. With the country’s unwavering support behind them, these 18 athletes are not just going to compete , they are going to contend.
