Mandela Group Backs 22nd Uganda International Badminton Challenge, $20000 at Stake
Kampala Set for Global Badminton Showdown as $20,000 Challenge Serves Off
By Kayiira Jackson
The race for Olympic qualification and continental bragging rights shifts to Uganda this week as the 22nd edition of the Uganda International Badminton Challenge gets underway in Kampala.
Launched at the headquarters of the Mandela Group of Companies in Industrial Area on Tuesday, the championship will run from February 18 to 22 at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium, drawing elite talent from across the globe.
This year’s edition promises to be one of the most competitive in the tournament’s history. A total of 256 international players from 40 countries will compete alongside 59 Ugandan athletes in five categories: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.
With a prize pool of $20,000 on offer, players will not only be chasing medals but also financial reward. Singles competitors will earn prize money starting from the quarterfinal stage, while the victorious doubles pair will share $1,600.
However, beyond the cash incentives lies a bigger prize — valuable Olympic ranking points. Winners in each category will collect 4,000 points, a significant boost for athletes seeking qualification for the next Olympic Games.
Simon Mugabi, CEO of the Uganda Badminton Association, described the tournament as a crucial gateway for players aiming to rise in the global rankings.
“This competition gives our athletes an opportunity to compete at a high level and earn critical points toward Olympic qualification,” Mugabi said during the launch. “The 4,000 points available are extremely important for players targeting the international stage.”
Uganda’s spotlight will shine brightly on emerging star Shamika Fadilah Mohammad Rafi, who arrives in top form after clinching gold in Women’s Singles at the All Africa Senior Badminton Championship in Gaborone. She will be joined by her doubles partner Tracy Naluwooza, with the pair eager to impress home fans following their continental success.
Another experienced campaigner, Gladys Mbabazi, expressed confidence ahead of the tournament, noting that recent preparations and international exposure have sharpened the team’s readiness.
“We have been preparing for a long time,” Mbabazi said. “Coming from the All Africa Championship in Botswana gives us confidence and good match fitness.”
The Uganda International Badminton Challenge has steadily grown into one of the region’s premier events, bolstered by the continued partnership between the national federation and the Mandela Group of Companies. Organizers believe this year’s record participation underscores the tournament’s rising stature on the global badminton calendar.