Uganda, South Africa share spoils in Women’s Rising Stars Baseball opener

Uganda and South Africa split victories on the opening day of the International Women Rising Stars Baseball Series at the Japan–Uganda Friendship Stadium in Gayaza.

Uganda’s Under‑15 girls began brightly, defeating the visitors 8–4 in the first game played over seven innings.

Captain Sandra Nakamya inspired the win with three crucial runs, supported by Ester Aciro (two runs), while Daizy Anena, Jovia Tempaya, and Ivy Acidi each added one.

South Africa responded in the second game, edging Uganda 6–5 in a tense contest. Despite Uganda’s early lead, the visitors adjusted their strategy and chased down the runs, sealing victory by a single margin.

The four‑day series was officially launched by Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary of the National Council of Sports (NCS), alongside Chris Mugisha, CEO of the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA), and Godwin Kayangwe, Vice President of the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC).

Team Uganda

Chebet called for increased government funding to the Uganda Baseball and Softball Association (UBASA) to support ambitions of qualifying for global competitions, including the World Championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“There is a need for baseball and softball to grow in the country. UBASA officials should come up with proposals to expand the game,” he said.

Mugisha assured stakeholders that USSSA will integrate baseball and softball into Ball Games II this year, following successful exhibition matches.

Ugandan batter swings and misses during the opening encounter against South Africa in the U-15 International Rising Stars Baseball Series at the Japan–Uganda Friendship Stadium, Gayaza. Photo: Silvan Kibuuka

“We have seen the game grow, and now the association should ensure it reaches as many schools as possible,” he noted.

UBASA Chairman John Bosco Ssempa described the series as an eye‑opener for both nations, highlighting efforts to build women’s baseball from the grassroots.

What’s next

The two teams will meet again on Thursday and Friday, with the final encounter set for Saturday.