Ssemujju, Kiiza Take Centre Stage at Fortebet Real Stars Awards
By Kayiira Jackson
Boxing and football took centre stage as standout performers were honoured at the latest Fortebet Real Stars Sports Awards, with David Kavuma Ssemujju and Maureen Kiiza emerging as headline winners in their respective disciplines.
Ssemujju’s recognition followed a statement performance in Tokyo, where he outclassed Japan’s previously unbeaten Urashima Masayuki at the famed Korakuen Hall. The victory not only underlined his growing dominance but also saw him successfully defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific welterweight title, edging fellow nominees Farahat Manirola and Saiya Nsubuga.
On the football front, Kiiza stood tall among her peers, fending off stiff competition from Jovia Nakagolo and Marion Serenge to claim top honours. Her consistency and influence on the pitch proved decisive in earning her the accolade.
Elsewhere, motorsport ace Rajiv Ruparelia Alwi, alongside co-driver Musa Nsubuga, was rewarded for a commanding display at the season-opening Mbale City Rally. Alwi cruised to overall victory with a combined time of 1:12:42, having set the pace early with a blistering Day One run of 35:12.001. Despite mounting pressure from Moses Lumala and Oscar Ntambi, his composure across the demanding stages ensured he remained unmatched.
In athletics, long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo was recognised after etching his name into history in Lisbon, where he set a new world half marathon record. His remarkable achievement saw him edge out Abel Chelangat and Sarah Chelangat.
Speaking after receiving his award, Alwi expressed both gratitude and renewed ambition. “Winning such an award is very motivating and I am humbled. I thank the organisers for recognising our efforts,” he noted.
Real Stars Sports Awards CEO Isaac Mukasa praised the athletes for their excellence while acknowledging the role of partners in sustaining the initiative. He commended the sports personalities for their dedication and extended appreciation to sponsors who continue to back the awards.
Running monthly since 2018, the Fortebet Real Stars Sports Awards are sponsored by Fortebet with support from Jude Colour Solutions, celebrating outstanding Ugandan sports talent across multiple disciplines.