Uganda has officially named its national table tennis team for the upcoming ITTF East Africa Regional Championships following the successful conclusion of a highly competitive selection process held in Kampala.
The National Team Trials, staged across four days—April 11, 12, 18 and 19—at the National Training Center at Kololo Senior Secondary School, attracted some of the country’s top talent, all vying for a place on the team that will represent the nation in Port Sudan, Sudan from May 20 to 23.
After a series of closely contested matches, Joseph Sebatindira, Joshua Magaya and Enock Balyewunya emerged as the top three players in the men’s category, earning national team slots. In the women’s category, Nakawala Jemimah led the standings, followed by Nangonzi Parvin and Anyango Patience, who also secured their places on the team.
The Uganda Table Tennis Association (UTTA) hailed the selected athletes for their outstanding performances, describing their qualification as a testament to hard work, discipline and consistency. The federation urged the players to carry the same determination onto the international stage as they prepare to compete against the region’s best.
Beyond the regional assignment, the stakes are even higher for the selected players. UTTA confirmed that the same group is in line to represent Uganda at the African Senior Championships set for October 11 to 18 in Morocco, provided they meet qualification requirements. This pathway aligns with ITTF Africa regulations, which mandate that teams for the continental event must include at least two players who featured in the regional championships.
Preparations for the upcoming competitions are expected to begin immediately, with the UTTA Technical Commission and Secretariat set to engage the players and their respective clubs on training programs and logistical arrangements.
While attention now shifts to those who made the cut, UTTA also commended all participants in the trials for their commitment and competitive spirit, encouraging them to remain active as the sport continues to grow across the country.
