The countdown to East African netball supremacy has officially intensified after the official release of the tournament pools for the 2026 East Africa Netball Club Championship set for Nairobi from May 10th to 16th. Uganda, one of the region’s netball powerhouses, heads into the championship with formidable representation in both the ladies’ and men’s categories as clubs from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zanzibar and South Sudan prepare for an explosive battle for regional dominance. With teams already en route by road, the stage is perfectly set for six days of elite competition and fierce rivalries.
Defending women’s champions N.I.C will headline a challenging Pool A that features Uganda Prisons, Kenya’s Ulinzi Swords, Red Perils, Police Arusha and South Sudan. The pool presents a demanding test filled with physical matchups, tactical battles and institutional rivalries capable of producing high-intensity encounters from the very first day. N.I.C will carry the pressure and prestige of defending their crown, while Uganda Prisons will be eager to stamp their authority and challenge for knockout qualification.
In Pool B, K.C.C.A and Uganda Police face equally difficult assignments against Kenya Prisons, Jeshi Stars, K.N.H and K.V.Z in what many observers are already describing as a “group of fine margins.” The blend of experienced contenders and ambitious challengers promises unpredictable contests and high-quality netball throughout the preliminary stage. Uganda’s representatives will be expected to rely on their athleticism, tactical organisation and winning mentality to navigate the demanding group fixtures.
The men’s category also promises fireworks as defending champions Kampala University lead Pool A alongside Nairobi Swifts, Legacy and JOOUST. Kampala University enters the championship determined to retain regional supremacy after dominating previous editions, while Legacy will look to make a bold statement against some of East Africa’s most competitive sides. Every fixture in the pool is expected to deliver fast-paced action, physical battles and tactical discipline at the highest level.
Meanwhile, W.O.B will carry Uganda’s hopes in Pool B against Kenya Prisons and J.K.U.A.T in another fiercely competitive lineup. As anticipation builds ahead of the opening matches in Nairobi, Uganda’s clubs travel with more than just title ambitions — they carry the responsibility of defending national pride and sustaining the country’s growing reputation as a regional netball powerhouse. With elite talent, historic rivalries and championship pressure all converging in Nairobi, fans across East Africa can expect a tournament packed with drama, intensity and unforgettable sporting moments.
