Uganda’s sports scene in 2024 was filled with memorable moments, from historic wins at the 2024 Summer Olympics to significant milestones. It was a year of triumphs, challenges, and reflection for the nation’s athletes and fans alike.
1. Golden Glory at the Paris Olympics
Uganda shone brightly at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, held from July 26 to August 11. Joshua Cheptegei secured a historic gold medal in the men’s 10,000 meters final, setting a new Olympic record of 26:43.14. Peruth Chemutai added to Uganda’s medal tally with a silver in the women’s 3000 meters steeplechase, setting a new national record.
2. Mandela National Stadium Reopens After Four Years
After a four-year renovation hiatus, Mandela National Stadium in Namboole reopened on May 1, 2024. The stadium welcomed fans with two test matches and two Uganda Premier League clashes, including BUL FC versus Vipers FC and SC Villa against KCCA FC, reigniting football fever in Uganda.
3. Uganda Cranes Return to AFCON
The Uganda Cranes qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with two games to spare. Their qualification was confirmed on November 14, 2024, after South Sudan’s victory over Congo. Uganda advanced with 10 points, joining South Africa to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
4. Uganda Cubs Triumph in U-17 AFCON Qualifiers
The Uganda Cubs were crowned champions of the CECAFA Zone U-17 AFCON Qualifiers, defeating Tanzania 2-1 in the final at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, on December 27, 2024. Both Uganda and Tanzania will represent the CECAFA Zone at the 2025 U-17 AFCON in Morocco.
5. She Cranes Bag Silver at Africa Netball Cup
The Uganda She Cranes secured second place in the 2024 Netball Africa Cup, held on December 14, 2024, in Namibia. Despite a hard-fought battle, they fell to South Africa’s SPAR Proteas 50-65 in the final.
6. Rugby Sevens Success for Uganda Women
The Uganda women’s Rugby Sevens team retained their bronze medal at the 2024 Rugby Africa 7s. They defeated Madagascar 17-05, earning a ticket to the 2025 World Rugby 7s Challenger Series alongside South Africa and Kenya.
7. Uganda’s Medal Haul at Africa Games
At the 13th Africa Games in Accra, Ghana, Uganda secured 20 medals, including 4 gold, 6 silver, and 10 bronze. This marked a significant improvement from the 2019 edition, showcasing the nation’s growing prowess in continental sports.
8. Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Gets FIFA Certification
The newly reconstructed Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium, now rebranded as Hamz Stadium, was certified by FIFA on October 4, 2024. The certification ensures the stadium is fit to host international competitions, with the FIFA-approved DuoFilament Mono football turf system in place.
9. Uganda Dominates FEASSA Games
Uganda emerged as overall champions at the 2024 FEASSA Games, held in Bukedea District from August 16-26. With 13 gold medals, Uganda triumphed over rivals Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi for the fourth consecutive year.
Losses in the Sports Fraternity
1. Tragic Death of Rebecca Cheptegei
Rebecca Cheptegei, a marathoner who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, tragically passed away on September 5, 2024, after suffering burns in an attack by her partner. This incident marked another sorrowful chapter in violence against female athletes.
2. Assistant Referee Peter Kabugo Dies During Match
Assistant referee Peter Kabugo collapsed and passed away during SC Villa’s match against UPDF on November 1, 2024. The 27-year-old succumbed to cardiac arrest in the 73rd minute of the game.
3. Fred Kajoba, Renowned Coach, Passes Away
Fred Kajoba, a former Uganda Cranes goalkeeping coach, died in Tanzania on May 18, 2024. He was working with Ihefu SC at the time of his passing. Kajoba, aged 54, was laid to rest on May 20 at his ancestral home in Senya.
All wrapped and ready for a year , the Ugandan sports have thrived through all hurdles and are headed for a fruitful 2025.
