Fortebet Awards: Africa’s Finest Nassanga is the September’s Real Star

By Kayiira Jackson 

She Cranes and KCCA Netball Club shooter Shadia Nassanga has been voted the Fortebet Real Star for the month of September following her outstanding performance at the Africa Netball Championship in Nairobi, Kenya.

Nassanga played a pivotal role as Uganda successfully win the continental crown, winning a record fourth Africa Netball Championship title after defeating South Africa 56-53 in an entertaining final.

The prolific shooter was one of Uganda’s standout performers throughout the tournament, where she was named both the Best Shooter and Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the championship.

Her contribution was particularly significant in the final, as Uganda held off a strong South African side to dethrone the lattera.

Speaking after receiving the award on Tuesday at Molecule Restaurant and Lounge in Kololo, Nassanga credited the entire team for Uganda’s success.

“I’m happy to be back here again. This victory is not for me alone. We worked as a team and we won. So I thank my fellow players and the technical team for the job well done,” Nassanga said.

Nassanga beat fellow  players Margeret Baagala, who was named the tournament’s best midcourt player, and Christine Namulumba to claim the September award.

The Fortebet Real Star Awards recognise outstanding sporting performances by Ugandan athletes across different disciplines.

In the other categories, veteran sports journalist Yusuf Baliruno was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to sports journalism.

Baliruno described the recognition as a major milestone in his career and dedicated the award to his family and fellow journalists.

“Today is a great day in my life. I dedicate this to my family. They endure waking up every day, travelling long journeys and opening the door for you every day. It is not easy,” Baliruno said.

He also reflected on the role football and sports journalism have played in shaping his career.

“The football fraternity made me a man of all people. This award has motivated me. It’s like starting a new journey. I thank my fellow journalists for the work done,” he added.

Fortebet Real Star Awards – September winners:

Boxing

• Farahat Manirola

Netball

• Shadia Nassanga

Golf

• Ronald Rugumayo