Uganda’s national men’s and women’s kabaddi teams have been officially flagged off ahead of the inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championships, scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad, India, from October 23 to 31, 2026.
The two teams, popularly known as the Gladiators (men) and the She Gladiators (women), will represent Uganda at the international competition, which is expected to bring together 14 nations to compete for the championship title.
The colourful flag-off ceremony was held at Cooper Chimney in Lugogo, Kampala, and attracted sports officials, federation representatives, and members of the corporate sector.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Mr. Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary Technical of the National Council of Sports (NCS); Mr. Kasumba James; and Mr. Jjagwe Robert, representing the Uganda Olympic Committee.
Also present were Mr. Edgar Mujuni, General Secretary of the Uganda Kabaddi Federation, and Mr. Jacob Kato, Vice President of the federation.
The corporate sector was represented by Dr. Santosh Gumte, Managing Director of Kansai Plascon Uganda Limited, and Mr. Daniel Kayongo, the company’s Marketing Manager.
Uganda Ready for International Challenge
Uganda will compete against 13 other nations at the championships. The participating countries are Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Scotland, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.
The men’s team, the Gladiators, will be captained by Mulalira Douglas, while Nalubega Olivia will lead the women’s side, the She Gladiators.
Addressing the players during the flag-off ceremony, Mr. Milton Chebet encouraged the athletes to represent Uganda with pride, determination, and confidence as they prepare to compete on the international stage.
“Conquer the world,” Chebet urged the players, challenging them to believe in their abilities and pursue success against some of the strongest kabaddi nations.
The championship presents a valuable opportunity for Uganda’s players to gain international exposure, assess their competitiveness, and build experience against teams from different kabaddi-playing nations.
Uganda’s National Team Squads
The Uganda Kabaddi Federation has named 14 players for each team ahead of the championships.
Men’s Team — The Gladiators
Ssengendo Jimmy
Mulalira Douglas (Captain)
Kamoga Frank
Wandeka Mubarak
Gombe Stanley
Mark Carnol Okidi
Ngabirano Innocent
Ibanda Derrick
Tenywa Gasta
Tamusuza Rayan
Ssekamatte Rahim
Wanyaka Isaac
Mutebi Simon
Semujju Valentino
Women’s Team — The She Gladiators
Nalubega Olivia (Captain)
Nagawa Dorothy
Nalwoga Nahia
Zalwango Jemima
Nakayongo Shirat
Botul Muhammed
Ademun Kolostika
Namataka Beatrice
Nayiga Jesca
Nabasa Faustine
Nabowa Catherine
Namuleme Salim Walda
Nabwegamo Cathy
Mbatudde Sandra
