The Uganda men’s national kabaddi team, the Gladiators, has stepped up preparations ahead of the 2026 Africa Kabaddi Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Zanzibar.
The continental championship will run from August 1 to August 13, 2026, bringing together the best men’s and women’s national teams from across Africa to compete for top honors.
A provisional squad of 28 players is currently undergoing intensive training under head coach John Nsibambi at Ridge Way Primary School in Matugga. The technical team is expected to trim the squad to 16 players who will represent Uganda at the tournament. The final team is set to be flagged off for Zanzibar on July 26.
Uganda heads into the competition determined to improve on its performance in the previous edition held in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2024. The Gladiators finished as runners-up after suffering a 44-23 defeat to hosts Kenya in the final.
With preparations starting early, Uganda is aiming to overcome the shortcomings of the last campaign and make a strong push for its first continental title.
Provisional Squad in Training
Joel Machari, Jimmy Ssengendo, Daglas Mulalira, Frank Kamoga, Mubaraka Wandeka, Stanley Gombe, Joshua Lutaaya, Abbey Kiwalabye, Mark Carnol Okidi, Innocent Ngabirano, Emmanuel Dembe, Derrick Ibanda, Nasif Kigozi, Gasta Tenywa, Rayan Tamusuza, Hakim Mbogo, Mulushid Kawayiso, Marvin Buule, Ezra Kato, Rahim Ssekamatte, Isac Wanyaka, Simon Mutebi, Steven Kasolo, Patrick Cheromo, Mubaraka Ambanya, Joseph Lubwama, Akram Sseruma, Travis Kakeeto, and David Ssekitto.
Uganda will be looking to turn its silver-medal finish into gold when the Africa Kabaddi Cup of Nations gets underway in Zanzibar this August.
