Kasozi and Naiga crowned champions at PAU End of Year tournament

Joseph Kasozi and African pool queen Rukia Naiga capped the 2025 season in style, clinching top honours at the Pool Association of Uganda (PAU) End of Year Championship held at iTaano Arena in Mukono on December 28.

Kasozi sealed an exceptional year with a dramatic 9–8 victory over Mansoor Bwanika in the men’s final.

The contest swung wildly, with Kasozi racing to a 6–2 lead before Bwanika mounted a spirited comeback to force a decider.

The pivotal moment came in the final rack when Bwanika missed a crucial yellow ball while attempting a safety shot, handing Kasozi the chance to clear the table. The “Sharpshooter,” as he is known in pool circles, calmly seized the opportunity to secure the Shs3 million top prize, along with a trophy and medal.

Kasozi’s path to the final showcased his dominance. He demolished defending champion Ibrahim Kayanja 7–0 in the semifinals in under 30 minutes, having earlier dispatched Simon Lubuulwa in the quarterfinals and Lawrence Ssengonge in the round of 16.

Bwanika earned his place in the final with a strong semifinal win over Alfred Gumikiriza, popularly known as “Black Sheep.” In the third-place playoff, Ibra Sejjemba claimed bronze with a 7–2 victory over Kayanja.

On the women’s side, Naiga finally struck gold after a season of near misses, overcoming long-time rival Ritah Nimusiima in the final. She dominated the decider after controlling the match from the outset.

Her journey to the crown included a 7–2 semifinal win over her younger sister Rashida Mutesi and a 5–2 quarterfinal triumph against multiple champion Victoria Namuyanja. Marion Kisakye completed the podium in third place.

The two-day championship attracted top talent from across Uganda. PAU chairman Bob Trubish, who attended as chief guest, praised the skill and competitiveness on display, noting that the season ended on a thrilling high in Mukono.