The Uganda Table Tennis national team is rapidly settling into the hot Riyadh climate and adjusting to the local cuisine as they prepare for the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games.
The first batch of players, comprising Jemimah Nakawala, Judith Parvin Nangonzi, 11-year-old World Champion Joseph Francis Sebatindira, Joshua Magaya, and Jonathan Ssenyonga, arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday and held their first training session on Thursday at the Riyadh University Students Recreation and Sports Center.
Team captain Jonathan Ssenyonga exudes confidence ahead of their matches, which kick off this weekend. He praised the team’s quick acclimatization to the hot weather and food, setting a positive tone for their campaign.
The team is expected to be joined by head coach Alvin Katumba and seeded player Judith Mirembe, who recently completed her Primary Leaving Examinations.
Uganda has a significant presence at the Games, with athletes competing in Aquatics, Wrestling, Athletics, Boxing, Weightlifting, and Para-Powerlifting.
The country’s history at the Islamic Solidarity Games dates back to 2005, with a total of 11 medals won in five editions.
The team will train again on this Friday morning before the official opening ceremony, with all eyes on a successful campaign.
