Uganda Aquatics has revealed a promising team of four (4) swimmers set to represent the country at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The team, blended with experienced competitors, raises hopes for a strong showing on the international stage.
Leading the women’s team are Kirabo Namutebi and Gloria Ann Muzito, two swimmers who have consistently delivered impressive performances in freestyle events.
Muzito, known for her speed and versatility, is expected to compete in the 50m and 100m freestyle, with the 200m freestyle recently added to her growing list of strengths.
Kirabo, equally formidable in sprint freestyle, is set to feature in the 50m and 100m events, with the possibility of expanding into breaststroke or butterfly depending on final race selections.
On the men’s side, Jesse Ssengonzi and Tendo Kawumi complete the able-bodied squad. Ssengozi, a specialist in butterfly, will likely take on the 50m and 100m butterfly events, while also featuring in freestyle races where he has proven valuable, particularly in relay setups.
Tendo, a backstroke expert, is expected to compete in the 50m and 100m backstroke, with additional participation in freestyle events under consideration.
The federation has emphasized a strategic approach to event selection, ensuring that swimmers focus on their strongest disciplines while avoiding overly congested schedules. Final confirmation of events will be made in consultation with coaches to maximize performance potential.
In the para-swimming category, Husnah Kukundakwe stands out as Uganda’s confirmed representative after achieving qualification at an international event in Italy. A versatile and accomplished swimmer, Kukundakwe competes across breaststroke, freestyle, and individual medley events. She enters the Games as one of Uganda’s brightest medal prospects, holding multiple African records and demonstrating consistent progress on the global stage.
Preparation for the Games has been unique, with most swimmers currently based abroad. Gloria and Tendo are training in Hungary under World Aquatics scholarships, Jesse is in New York, while Kirabo is in Indianapolis, where she is also undertaking an internship with Uganda Aquatics. Despite the geographical spread, the federation maintains close contact through regular check-ins and coordination with coaches to monitor fitness, health, and readiness.
Kirabo’s recent recovery from a shoulder injury is being carefully managed, with optimism that she will be fully fit in time for competition. Encouragingly, she recently set a new record in a 100-yard event, signalling a strong return to form.
Uganda Aquatics is heading into the Games with realistic but ambitious targets. With stiff competition expected from traditional swimming powerhouses such as Australia, England, and Canada, the immediate goal is to reach finals; an achievement that would mark significant progress for the nation’s swimming program.
As the countdown to Glasgow continues, all eyes will be on this determined group of athletes, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to make its mark in the pool.