International Olympic Committee (IOC) Board Member and former Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) President William Fredrick Blick officially served off the 2026 Uganda Para Badminton International Championship, marking the beginning of an exciting week of world-class para badminton action at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium in Kampala.
The colourful opening ceremony was attended by Badminton Uganda Chairperson Annet Nakamya, Badminton Uganda Chief Executive Officer Simon Mugabi, athletes, officials, and invited guests, celebrating the values of inclusion, excellence, and international sporting competition.
The championship, which runs from 7 to 12 July 2026, has attracted participants from 16 countries, including hosts Uganda, Kenya, Brazil, Israel, India, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Indonesia, and several others.
Speaking after officially serving off the tournament, Blick urged all athletes to make the most of the opportunity and perform to the best of their abilities.
“This is your time to shine. You have worked hard to reach this stage, and now is the moment to show your talent, inspire others, and make your mark in para badminton,” said Blick.
He commended the athletes for their resilience, determination, and commitment to the sport, noting that the championship demonstrates Uganda’s growing commitment to developing para badminton and promoting inclusion for athletes with disabilities.
Blick also welcomed the international participants and wished them success throughout the competition, expressing confidence that the tournament would strengthen international friendships, raise performance standards, and inspire more people to take up para badminton.
Badminton Uganda Chairperson Annet Nakamya revealed that preparations for this year’s championship were affected by the Ebola outbreak, which forced several countries to withdraw from the event.
Despite the setback, Nakamya expressed confidence in the federation’s ability to successfully host the championship, noting that Badminton Uganda had previously organised competitions during the COVID-19 pandemic and has the experience required to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.
Uganda has traditionally fielded the largest number of athletes as the host nation. However, this year’s championship features only 21 Ugandan para badminton players.
Since the introduction of para badminton in Uganda in 2017, the sport has continued to register significant growth, providing athletes with increased opportunities to compete both locally and internationally.
The championship also forms part of Uganda’s long-term preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
With the Paralympic qualification cycle expected to begin in early 2027, Badminton Uganda hopes the tournament will help prepare more athletes capable of qualifying for the world’s biggest para sporting event.
