The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) made history on March 19, 2025, with the inaugural Uganda Olympic Committee Awards ceremony. Held at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, the prestigious event celebrated the remarkable achievements of Ugandan athletes over the past year, honoring the best male and female athletes across 33 sports federations.
A Night to Remember
The awards ceremony was a landmark moment for Ugandan sports, recognizing the hard work, dedication, and excellence of athletes who have brought pride to the nation. The event not only celebrated individual and team accomplishments but also set the stage for inspiring future generations of Ugandan sports heroes.
Top Honors
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Overall Male and Female Athletes of the Year. The awards went to:
- Joshua Cheptegei: The long-distance running sensation, who clinched a medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, was named Male Athlete of the Year.
- Peruth Chemutai: The steeplechase star, who also shone at the Paris Olympics, was crowned Female Athlete of the Year.
Team and Federation Awards
In addition to individual accolades, the ceremony recognized outstanding teams and federations:
- Uganda Rugby Men’s Team: Named Best Team of the Year for their exceptional performance on the international stage.
- Uganda Netball Female Team: Honored as the Best Female Team of the Year for their remarkable achievements.
- Uganda Athletics: Awarded the Best Federation of the Year for its consistent contribution to the development of athletics in Uganda.
Athletes Express Gratitude
Winners and nominees alike expressed their gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of such events in motivating athletes to strive for excellence.
- Margret Baagala (Netball): “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We are grateful for the recognition and will continue to make Uganda proud.”
- Husina Kobugabe (Badminton): “Being recognized among the best athletes in Uganda is a dream come true. This award inspires me to aim even higher.”
- Marshall Miiro (Modern Pentathlon): “This is a historic moment for Ugandan sports. I am honored to be part of this celebration and will continue to represent my country with pride.”
A Vision for the Future
Donald Rukare, the President of the Uganda Olympic Committee, highlighted the significance of the awards ceremony in promoting sports development in Uganda. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to supporting athletes and fostering a culture of excellence.
