Uganda’s senior men’s national handball team, the Nile Kings, is set to make history as it travels to Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa Handball Championship.
The 27th Edition of the African Cup of Nations is scheduled to run from January 21 to January 31, 2026.
This will be the first-ever appearance for Uganda’s senior men at Africa’s most prestigious handball championship, which also doubles as a qualifier for the IHF World Handball Championship.
Historic Moment for Ugandan Handball
The championship marks a major milestone for Ugandan handball, with the Nile Kings stepping onto the continental stage against Africa’s elite. Head Coach Orotin Jimmy Remmie, who will lead the team at the tournament, described the qualification as a proud moment for the country and a reward for years of development.
Preparation Under Tight Conditions
Uganda’s preparations have been challenging but focused. The team managed only 15 days of residential training, largely due to unavoidable variables including player availability and injuries.
Despite the short camp, the technical team emphasised discipline, commitment, and mental readiness.
“Selection was based on availability, fitness, and most importantly, the right training mentality,” the head coach explained.
The final squad blends youth and experience, combining seasoned players with promising young talent. Notably, two exceptional high school players (Prosper Wagaba and Gerald Pirwoth), who stood out during the 2025 USSSA Games, earned places on the final roster, highlighting Uganda’s growing grassroots strength.
Tough Draw in Group B
Uganda has been drawn into Group B, alongside continental heavyweights Egypt and Angola, as well as Gabon.
The Nile Kings will open their campaign against Angola, followed by Gabon, and then Egypt in the group stage.
The competition format sees the top two teams in each group advance to the Main Round, while the remaining sides contest the President’s Cup, which determines overall classification.
Clear Expectations and Big Dreams
While acknowledging the challenge ahead, Uganda’s camp remains optimistic.
“We want to play well and enjoy the experience,” said the coach. “This tournament is also about exposure, giving our players a chance to be seen and possibly scouted by clubs across Africa and the world.”
Beyond experience, the stakes are high. The winner of the African Cup of Nations lifts the continental trophy, earns prize money, and qualifies for the 2027 IHF World Championship. For Uganda, the pathway to the world stage is clear but demanding: a top-five finish at the African championship would secure qualification.
Journey to Kigali
The Nile Kings are scheduled to depart Monday evening, with arrival in Kigali expected Tuesday at 7:00 a.m. Match venues and specific game times will be confirmed by the organizers upon arrival.
Continental Stage Awaits
Teams from across Africa will converge in Kigali for ten days of high-intensity handball, making the Rwandan capital the heartbeat of African handball this January. For Uganda, this tournament represents more than results; it is a statement of arrival.
As the Nile Kings step onto the court, they carry not only their ambitions but also the hopes of a nation eager to see Ugandan handball take its rightful place on the African and global stage.