Uganda’s U20 Women’s Volleyball team bounced back in style at the ongoing 2025 Africa U20 Women’s Championship in Yaoundé, Cameroon, dispatching Burundi in straight sets on Tuesday to register their first victory of the tournament.
After suffering a tough 3-0 defeat to continental giants Egypt in their opener, the Ugandan side responded with determination, clinching the win over Burundi with set scores of 25-19, 25-20, and 25-18.
Rising star Nekesa Purity lit up the court with an explosive performance, racking up over 15 points to claim the Player of the Match award. Teammates Nzunakyi Mercy and Claire Najjuuko also earned individual accolades as Best Server and Best Receiver, respectively.
Uganda’s 11-player squad features a dynamic mix of young talent, including Zoe Chang, Nabatanzzi Mary, and Mariam Mohammed. The team is under the leadership of head coach Sadat Waguma, with support from Mariam Nakamanya and Apollo Namanya. International referee Abdallah Kanyago and team leader Tonny Peter Lakony complete the technical bench.
This marks Uganda’s return to the continental stage after missing the last edition due to COVID-19 disruptions in 2020. With a tough schedule ahead, including matches against hosts Cameroon and a strong Senegalese side, Uganda will need to maintain momentum.
The championship also doubles as a qualifier for the 2026 FIVB U-21 Women’s World Championship, with only the top three teams advancing.
