Uganda’s handball fraternity is gearing up for a landmark season, with the East and Central Africa Handball Federation (ECHAF) Club Championship scheduled for December 27 to January 1, followed by the national team’s first-ever appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for men, the Nile Kings.
“We’re excited because Congo always brings the best, and that level of experience raises the quality of the competition,” said Sheila Agonzibwa Richardson, President of the Uganda Handball Federation.
The ECHAF Club Championship will feature top clubs from across East and Central Africa, with Uganda’s men and women teams competing against champions from Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Sudan.
Immediately after ECAF, the national team will travel to Kigali for the Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Rwanda from January 19 to February 2.
This will be Uganda’s first appearance at the continental men’s championship, an achievement federation leaders described as “a dream come true.”
“This is the 27th edition of AFCON, and it’s our very first time taking part,” said Mayanja Willy, Vice President Technical.
“It’s a huge opportunity for our players to showcase their talent and prove what Uganda can do on the African stage.”
Uganda has been drawn into Group B, alongside Africa’s number one seed Egypt, third-seeded Angola, Gabon, and Uganda.
“It’s a tough group, but we believe in our players,” Mayanja emphasized. “All we need is good preparation and determination.”
The federation is targeting a strong performance at AFCON, following the women’s team’s recent success, which saw them climb from 27th to 11th in Africa.
“The girls have shown it is possible,” Agonzibwa said.
“Now we want to do the same for the boys. Going to AFCON exposes you, gets you ranked, and opens doors to major tournaments.”
With preparations underway, the national team will train using a hybrid system, combining club sessions and national team drills twice a week, before full residential preparation begins after the ECHAF championship.
The final squad will be announced this Friday.
“We ask our fans and partners to stand with us,” Agonzibwa said.
“This has been our dream, and now that the opportunity is here, we want to make it count.”
