How Uganda has ruled East Africa Netball for over 20 years

Uganda once again stamped its authority on regional netball after dominating the concluded East Africa Netball Club Championship held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ugandan clubs swept the women’s category, winning gold, silver and bronze, while also securing silver and bronze in the men’s competition.

The latest triumph was another reminder of Uganda’s long standing superiority in East African netball dominance that has stretched for more than two decades.

In the women’s category, Uganda Prisons emerged champions after a spirited campaign, while NIC finished second and KCCA claimed bronze. In the men’s competition, WOB settled for silver after losing the final to Kenya Prisons, while Kampala University secured bronze.

Uganda’s dominance in East African netball is reflected in the trophy cabinet. Over the years, Ugandan clubs have collected more than 32 regional titles, with NIC Netball Club leading the way with 28 trophies, while Uganda Prisons Netball Club has secured four titles.

For many, Uganda’s commanding display may have looked extraordinary, but to the country’s netball fraternity, it was simply a continuation of a culture of excellence built over the years.

According to Netball Uganda president Jocelyn Ucanda, Uganda’s sustained success is rooted in long-term investment by clubs, strong leadership within the federation, and consistent competition structures that have kept players active and competitive throughout the year.

“This success is owed to the clubs that have invested in these teams by funding them for the last 25 years without fail,” Ucanda said.

She explained that the federation has deliberately strengthened leadership and technical support systems to ensure professionalism in the sport.

“The leadership of netball invested in leadership and technical support to ensure the rules, regulations, administration and protocols of the game are maintained, “she noted.

Ucanda added that Uganda’s dominance is also a result of continuous competitions such as the national rally, novice championships and friendly matches that help keep athletes fit and competitive all year round.

Another area Uganda has heavily invested in is officiating. Ucanda revealed that the federation has intentionally trained umpires and technical officials, giving the country an edge over its regional rivals.

“Training of officials has been deliberate. Currently, Uganda has more than 10 Africa C umpires, while other East African countries do not have,” she said.

This year’s championship attracted clubs from four countries; Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar with Uganda represented by seven clubs, including four women’s teams and three men’s teams.

Despite the increasing competition in the region, Uganda’s clubs once again proved why the country remains the benchmark of East African netball.

“Uganda as a nation, we are proud of the gold, silver and bronze medals won at this championship. Clubs invest heavily in preparation and that is why every match is played like a final. That commitment has kept Uganda dominant in the region for over 20 years,” Ucanda added.