Uganda Ready to Host 2026 Para Badminton International Despite Reduced International Turnout
By Kayiira Jackson
Uganda is set to host the 2026 Uganda Para Badminton International from 7th to 12th July at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium in Kampala, with athletes from 16 countries expected to compete in the World Badminton Federation-sanctioned tournament.
The championship will bring together players from Uganda, Kenya, Brazil, Israel, India, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Indonesia and several other nations in what is expected to be a highly competitive event.
However, the tournament has registered a lower international turnout compared to previous editions following concerns triggered by the recent Ebola outbreak. According to Badminton Uganda Chief Executive Officer Simon Mugabi, the federation had initially anticipated entries from more than 30 countries before several teams withdrew.
“We have been having entries of more than 30 countries, but the way WHO announced about Ebola disorganised us and some countries withdrew because of that crisis. As it stands, Uganda does not have Ebola, but we still need to take caution. The World Badminton Federation has much confidence in us and we are going forward with our tournament,” Mugabi said.
Despite the challenges, Mugabi expressed confidence in the federation’s preparedness, noting that the experience gained from organising competitions during the COVID-19 pandemic has equipped Uganda to safely host international events.
Uganda will field 21 para badminton players at this year’s championship, a significant reduction from previous editions when the host nation registered a much larger contingent. Mugabi explained that the decision was made after reviewing players’ commitment to competition.
“We have been having a big number of Ugandans featuring, but some have not been playing. We therefore decided to reduce the number to those who will actively compete,” he noted.
Since its introduction in Uganda in 2017, para badminton has continued to grow, providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities to compete on the international stage. Mugabi credited the federation’s Shuttle Time workshops, which have been conducted across different parts of the country, for identifying and nurturing new talent.
He added that Badminton Uganda remains committed to expanding participation by reaching more communities and bringing additional para athletes into the sport.
The 2026 Uganda Para Badminton International is expected to showcase elite para badminton talent while reinforcing Uganda’s reputation as a capable host of major international sporting events.