Uganda is looking to become the first country in East Africa to defend the overall trophy of the Africa Aquatics Zone III Championships for the fourth time in a row, a feat that could cement its place as the region’s powerhouse.
As the hosts of this year’s eleventh edition, which is slated to take place between October 21 and 25, 2026, Uganda will use its home ground advantage to field the biggest number of competitors – more than 100 – as it looks to fend off competition from Kenya and Tanzania.
At least seven countries are expected to participate at the competition, which will take place at Kampala International School of Uganda. Among the countries expected are: Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, Sudan, and the hosts Uganda.
Uganda’s chances have been boosted by the return of foreign-based swimmers such as two Olympians – Gloria Muzito (Hungary), who last swam in Uganda at the 2023 national championships, and Kirabo Namutebi (USA).
Also, Uganda will look to another foreign-based swimmer Andrew Ryland (Australia), who, only a few days ago, set a new national record of 22.57 seconds in the 50-meter freestyle during the second edition of the Swimming World Cup in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
This will be the first time that Ryland will swim for Team Uganda. Kenya appears to present the biggest threat to Uganda’s attempt to hold onto the trophy after last year’s performance at the 50-meter pool at Kasarani, Nairobi, left a bitter taste in many Kenyan mouths.
For Kenya, the mission is clear: reclaim the trophy and salvage some national pride. Nevertheless, Uganda, who will be captained by top swimmers Nathan Nsereko, Crystal Semanda, Benjamin Ssali and Paloma Kirabo, remains the favourites.
And that is not because of the numbers it is fielding, but also because of the quality of the athletes. Abdou Hakim, who is based in the United States of America, has returned to bring in some energy into the boys’ team aged 15–16.
Daniel Rukundo Nuwagaba, who studies in South Africa, and Gabriella Ndyanabo, who goes to school in Tanzania, have returned to push Uganda to the summit. The presence of junior swimmers such as Kristian Bwisho, Gabriella Opolot, Elijah Ayesiga, Mackayla Ssali, means Uganda’s medal hopes are in safe hands.
Tyrah Muganzi, Jonathan Kaweesa, and Tara Kisawuzi are some of the swimmers Uganda will bank on to collect points. Zara Marie Mbanga, who will be heading to Dakar Senegal for the Youth Olympics later this month, will also use this championship to sharpen her skills.
During the flag-off of the team over the weekend, Moses Mwase encouraged the swimmers to remain disciplined as the country strives to defend the trophy.