Joseph Sebatindira, Sharif Nsereko, Parvin Nangonzi, and Samuel Ankunda have earned their spots to represent Uganda in the upcoming All-Africa Games in Ghana in a historic turn of events at the All Africa Table Tennis Qualifiers.
The Uganda Table Tennis Association (UTTA) meticulously organized a two-day national selection trial at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, drawing the participation of 19 men and 16 ladies. The outcome of the tournament revealed a remarkable achievement by young talents, marking a significant chapter in the history of Ugandan table tennis.
Surprisingly, nine-year-old Joseph Sebatindira emerged as a standout performer, securing the third position in the men’s category and earning a place in Team Uganda for both the All-Africa Games (AAG) and the Regional Senior Championships (RSC). His achievement is unprecedented, as no player under the age of 10 had ever qualified to compete in the men’s senior team.
Equally impressive was Sebatindira’s eleven-year-old brother, Sharif Nsereko, who clinched the fourth and final spot on the men’s team, adding to the youthful vigor of the contingent. The top two positions in the men’s category were claimed by Jonathan Senyonga and Samuel Ankunda.
In the women’s category, the qualification unfolded as a family affair when Shanita Namaala, the elder sister of Sebatindira and Nsereko, secured the third position. Jemimah Nakawala, aged 14, finished as the top seed, while Parvin Nangonzi, aged 15, claimed the second seed.
A moment of recognition and motivation came in the form of a $500 cheque awarded to Joseph Sebatindira by UTTA president Robert Jjagwe. The generous gesture, presented by Stag and CTTF chairman Vivek Kohli, served as appreciation for Sebatindira’s outstanding achievement. Kohli had previously extended the same support when the young player emerged victorious in the 2023 World Championship in Egypt in the under-11-year category.
As these promising talents prepare to showcase their skills at the All-Africa Games scheduled from March 3 to 23 in Ghana, the Ugandan table tennis community anticipates an exciting and groundbreaking representation on the continental stage.
