Sports 13 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Shadia Nassanga: From Doubting Beginner to Africa's Netball Queen
Shadia Nassanga's journey from a reluctant netball attendee to the Most Valuable Player of the Africa Netball Cup is a testament to dedication, early belief, and unwavering loyalty. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/other-sport/shadia-nassanga-the-making-of-africa-s-best-netball-player-5631258
Once unsure if she could even play the sport, Shadia Nassanga has risen to become the undisputed best netball player in Africa. Her path began not with ambition, but with a desire to escape boredom during her Primary Seven vacation. Accompanying her sister to a training session in Namungoona, Nassanga harbored doubts about her physique for netball.
Coach Richard Ssentongo, however, saw potential in her height and build. Despite Nassanga’s own reservations, he encouraged her to shoot. This simple act of belief ignited a spark, and the next morning, Nassanga was the first at practice, diligently honing her skills alone.
This early dedication paid off spectacularly. In September 2026, Nassanga was named the Most Valuable Player and Best Shooter at the Africa Netball Cup in Nairobi, where Uganda secured their fourth continental title by defeating South Africa. Her journey is deeply intertwined with Ssentongo’s faith in her, a mentor who guided her through Exodus College and even facilitated her move to St. Mary’s Kitende by ensuring he would be her assistant coach.
Loyalty is a recurring theme in Nassanga’s career. She remains with KCCA Netball Club, partly due to Ssentongo securing her a spot there. She views him as her agent, emphasizing that any discussions about her future must involve him. This principle extends to her professional aspirations, with her experience playing in Malaysia’s Wildcats league opening her eyes to opportunities beyond Uganda.
Nassanga’s success is built on relentless practice, often shooting at least 100 balls daily. She acknowledges that her relaxed walking style can lead to underestimation, but insists her physical fitness is maintained through rigorous exercise and careful diet. Looking ahead, Nassanga aims for strong performances at the 2027 Netball World Cup before considering a break to start a family, balancing her sporting ambitions with personal milestones.