hockey 6 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Youth Hockey Teams Aim High at Inaugural Africa Cup
Uganda's junior men's and women's hockey teams are heading to Nairobi for the first-ever Hockey 5s Youth Africa Cup, with aspirations of qualifying for the upcoming U18 World Cup. The tournament is seen as a significant opportunity for the young players to represent their nation on an international stage. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/other-sport/youth-sides-upbeat-ahead-of-inaugurap-hockey-5s-africa-cup-5548450
Uganda is set to make its mark at the inaugural Hockey 5s Youth Africa Cup, an event doubling as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey5s U18 World Cup scheduled for December in South Korea. The national U18 teams, both men and women, are heading to Nairobi, Kenya, to compete for a coveted spot in the world championship.
The women’s team, led by coach Martin Okello and captain Phionah Amaro, will face tough competition from Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa. Meanwhile, the men’s squad, coached by Vincent Kasasa and captained by Daniel Alvin Kinyera, will compete against hosts Nigeria and South Africa.
During the flag-off ceremony at the National Council of Sports (NCS) in Lugogo, coaches and officials expressed confidence in the teams’ potential. “We assure you of bringing back good results,” stated coach Okello. NCS Senior Sports Officer Ann Nankya lauded the Uganda Hockey Association (UHA) for their efforts in grassroots development and emphasized the importance of the athletes representing the nation with pride and determination.
UHA president Phillip Wafula highlighted the historical significance of this opportunity, noting it could be Uganda’s first international event since the 1972 Olympics. Parents also shared their pride and high hopes for the young athletes, encouraging them to strive for victory and showcase Uganda’s talent on a global level.
Adding to the national contingent, Emmanuel Baguma and Rooney Aheebwe have been appointed as umpires, with Pauline Ninsiima serving as a technical official for the tournament.