The Uganda Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (UBBFA) is on the brink of collapse after failing to meet the June 20, 2025 deadline for mandatory re-registration under the National Sports Act, 2023.
The National Council of Sports (NCS) had clearly outlined the requirement, but UBBFA was among five national sports federations that missed the deadline.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The implications are dire. UBBFA’s failure to register puts the entire sport in limbo, and without recognition from NCS, the association loses its legal standing, athletes lose a formal channel for competition and progression, and the sport becomes ineligible for government funding or support. The sport’s legacy, which produced athletes like Ivan Byekwaso, who won the prestigious Mr. Natural Universe title and triumphed in the INBA Natural Bodybuilding World Cup in 2015, is now at risk.
Financial Blow
The Shs 508 billion national sports budget for the 2025/2026 financial year has earmarked Shs 36 billion for federation subventions, but UBBFA’s non-compliance means it will not access this funding. This exclusion deals a serious blow to grassroots bodybuilders, gym owners, and provincial clubs that rely heavily on federation-backed support.
The Way Forward
There is growing pressure on UBBFA’s leadership to explain its failure to act in time. Stakeholders are calling for accountability and immediate action to begin the re-registration process.
The survival of bodybuilding as a recognized competitive sport may now depend on how quickly and effectively the UBBFA reorganizes and reengages with the regulatory process.
Unless urgent corrective measures are taken, the future of bodybuilding in Uganda may remain suspended in uncertainty
Federations that Failed to Meet the Deadline
- Uganda Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (UBBFA)
- Uganda Ultimate Frisbee Association (UUFA)
- Uganda Floorball Association (UFA)
- Uganda Deaf Sports Federation (UDSF)
- Uganda Roll Ball Association (URA)