UBASA president Sempa hails baseball, softball teams after dual success

Uganda Baseball and Softball Association (UBASA) president John Bosco Ssempa says the past month has shown how strong Uganda has become in both softball and U15 baseball, proving that the sport now has deep roots in Uganda.

Late last month, Uganda’s women’s softball team finished second at the Africa qualifiers in Nairobi, securing a place in the next stage of the Softball Women’s World Cup qualification race.

Days later, Uganda’s U15 baseball team also claimed silver at the World Cup qualifiers where Edrine Kalule was voted Most Valuable Player (MVP).

“Our competition at the recent qualifiers is a representation of our local activities and shows the world that baseball and softball have deep roots in Uganda,” he said.

The U15 Baseball World Cup Qualifiers ran from 5th to 7th at Jomo Kenyatta University and featured Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, and Sudan. Uganda fought hard through the three days and reached the deciding game against South Africa but lost to the eventual champions, who took the only slot for the 2026 U15 Baseball World Cup in Italy.

“Edine Kalule has been MVP twice in local tournaments. His performance at the qualifiers shows his continuous training and dedication,” he added.

Kalule represented Gayaza Baseball Club. The team returned home on Monday 8.

Before the U15 event, Uganda’s women’s softball team had already secured silver after finishing behind South Africa in Nairobi. Their result sent them to the global qualification phase to be held in Peru, Czech Republic, and the USA in June to July 2026, where they will face some of the world’s best teams.

Ssempa said the federation’s development programs, youth leagues, scouting, and regular training are behind these strong performances. But he highlighted areas that need urgent support before Uganda enters global competition, including equipment, training camps, and international exposure.

“Government through NCS should increase budget allocation for national team preparation. The private sector should get involved through our activities,” he said.

He also encouraged families and communities to embrace the sport.

“Ugandans should send their children to play and follow our games. Baseball and softball are now competing at world cup level, and players are signing professional contracts.”