Nicholas Natuhereza has been appointed as the new head coach of the Uganda Women’s National Basketball Team, the Gazelles, replacing Goran Lojo.

The announcement was confirmed through a statement released by FUBA (Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations) on Monday, January 20, 2024.

“Nicholas Natuhereza, the team’s former assistant coach, has been appointed as the new head coach,” the statement read in part.

Natuhereza succeeds Goran Lojo, who left the position to take on a new role with Great Britain. According to FUBA President Nasser Sserunjogi, Natuhereza possesses the skills and experience needed to lead the team effectively.

“Nicholas Natuhereza will serve as the head coach for the Gazelles at the upcoming FIBA Zone V Qualifiers in Cairo, Egypt. We trust his experience and knowledge will guide the team to success,” Sserunjogi noted in the statement.

Natuhereza will be assisted by Julius Lutwama, while Ben Komakech has joined the technical team as a video analyst.

The Gazelles are set to commence their preparations on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, ahead of the continental qualifiers.

MTN Monthly Tee (January 2025)

• Overall winner: Peace Hellen (Handicap 29) – 64
• Ladies winner: Maxi Byenkya (Handicap 19) – 69 countback
• Seniors’ winner (55 years +): Steven Kitamirike (Handicap 27) – 71 countback
• Guest winner: Gordon Obitre Gama (Handicap 20) – 69
• Group A winner men: Andrew Baguma (Handicap 6) – 70
• Group B winner men: Daniel Opwonya (Handicap 17) – 69
• Group C winner men: Dejan Stepanovic (Handicap 20) – 68

The MTN Monthly Tee returned at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club with the first tournament of 2025 taking centre stage on Saturday, January 18.

Over 120 golfers took the course including the Deputy Speaker for the Parliament of Uganda Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa who shared his target for the golf season.

“Such tournaments as the MTN Monthly Tee are beneficial to me, first of all for health benefits. I also look forward to lowering my handicap from 20 downwards,” Rt. Hon. Tayebwa said.

By the close of the day, Peace Hellen, playing off handicap 29, emerged as the overall winner after returning to the clubhouse with a nett score of 64.

Maxi Byenkya, playing off handicap 19, was the ladies’ winner with 69 nett on countback.

The seniors (55 years +) cluster was claimed by Steven Kitamirike (Handicap 27) with 71 on countback.

Gordon Obitre Gama (Handicap 20) was the guest top performer with 69 nett.

Other Top Performers

Andrew Baguma (Handicap 6) won the Men’s Group A with 70 ahead of Robbins Mwehaire (71).

Daniel Opwonya (Handicap 17) won Group B with 69 nett, a shot better than Stephen Paul Ojambo (70 nett, countback).

Dejan Stepanovic (Handicap 20) claimed Group C with 68 nett ahead of John Ssebuliba (70, countback).

Jacob Byamukama, the club chairman, anticipates a great golfing year with several events lined up at the historic event.

“Happy New Year to you all. 2025 is here and we expect a great golfing year at Entebbe year. I salute all the media, members, sponsors, partners and the media for the collective duty to see Entebbe Club grow through leaps and bounds,” Byamukama stated.

The next MTN Monthly Tee will take place on Saturday, February 15.

South Sudanese center Moses Maker has officially left National Basketball League (NBL) side City Oilers, the club has confirmed.

The reigning NBL champions announced his departure on Tuesday, January 14, via their official online platforms.

“For all that you’ve brought to this team—your hard work, dedication, and spirit will never be forgotten. Wishing you nothing but success in your next chapter,” the club’s statement read.

Maker has been a key player in City Oilers’ last three consecutive league titles.

During the 2024 campaign, he averaged 10 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, helping the team secure its 10th league championship.

As City Oilers prepare for the 2025 season, the club is expected to make adjustments to its roster in pursuit of an 11th league title.

Sunday Results

• W: Amazon Rhinos 66-65 Nkumba Lady Marines (1-1)
• W: Angels 54-51 Our Savior Banyabo (1-1)
• M: UMU Flames 52-77 VU Crocs (0-2)
• M: UPDF Tomahawks 49-71 Rezlife Saints (0-2)

Amazon Rhinos and Angels Basketball Club knotted their Division I Playoff Semifinal Series on Sunday.

As was the case at Abja Park in Naalya on Saturday, the clashes at Lugogo Indoor Stadium were as close and decided in the final minutes of each of the games.

Rhinos trailed Nkumba 21-14 in the first quarter but fought back in the second quarter and took charge of the game in the third quarter. They however were not comfortable with possessions, just like their opponents. The two teams committed 28 and 30 turnovers respectively.

Margret Nassali scored 16 points to go with 6 assists and 9 steals to lead the Rhinos. Aisha Lunkuse added 14 points and Shaminah Mukyala contributed 12 points while Charline Karungi picked a team-high 18 rebounds and scored 7 points.

Privas Kayenyi scored a game-high 19 points and pulled down a game-high 28 rebounds in a losing effort for Nkumba. Hezel Ssengendo scored 15 points and Linda Mishelle had 11 points.

In the other women’s game, Martha Likicho was the star performer for Angels who looking for their immediate return to top-flight. The forward scored 17 points and picked 9 rebounds in the 54-51 win over Our Savior. Angel Mabor came in handy with 10 points and as many rebounds.

Our Savior who trailed by double digits at halftime before fighting back in the second had three players score in double figures led by Phiona Apio who netted 16 points and picked 8 rebounds.

Barbara Gimbo (14 points) and Patricia Namugame (11) were the other players to score in double-digits.

MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2025 | Preliminary Race Schedule

• January 18: Luuka & Bulamogi
• January 19: Bukooli & Bunhole
• January 25: Busiki & Bunha
• January 26: Bugabula & Bukono
• February 1: Kigulu & Bugweri
• February 2: Butembe
• February 15: Grand Finale

Busoga Kingdom and MTN Uganda officially launched the second edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship.

Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Royal Highness Gabula Nadiope IV, thrilled his subjects at the launch with exquisite cycling skills as he set the bicycle race in motion at the Kingdom Headquarters in Bugembe on Friday, 10^th January 2025.

Preliminary races to select the cyclists who will represent each of Busoga’s eleven chiefdoms of Bunha, Luuka, Bulamogi, Bukooli, Bunhole Bunanumba, Busiki, Bugabula, Bukono, Kigulu, Bugweri, and Butembe will be held between January 18 and February 2, 2025.

The grand finale shall be held on February 15.

Participants in this championship will compete in two categories, that is Tippa (Gaali Ensoga) and Mountain Bikes, with each chiefdom sending four cyclists to the grand finale; two from each category.

John Paul Okwi, MTN Uganda’s Sponsorship and Events Manager, affirmed that the Busoga Cycling Championship aligns with the company’s objective of effecting a positive change in societies.

“It is a great honour to be present and part of this second edition of the Busoga cycling championship. I extend my appreciation to the Kyabazinga of Busoga His Royal Highness Gabula Nadiope IV for allowing MTN to be part of this Kingdom initiative.

“Today, we celebrate a spirit of unity and resilience. This championship has a very special meaning to us as MTN because it is a celebration of hope, and we are excited to partner with the Kingdom to achieve change in this society.

“At MTN, we believe that sports is a very strong pillar and a way through which we can mobilize and facilitate societal change. So, we are honoured, excited and looking forward to a very exciting race starting on the 18^th January 2025,” said Okwi.

The Prime Minister of Busoga Kingdom, Dr Joseph Muvawala, applauded MTN for being a good development partner.

“I thank MTN Uganda for keeping this partnership together, for taking us up when it was a little bit risky. They have been here since this race began, and this partnership has helped us grow to the level where we are.”

MTN Busoga Cycling Championship began in 2022.  Bukooli won the Tippa category while Butembe reigned supreme in the Mountain Sport Bike category.

Awards

The winners of each category at the grand finale will ride home brand-new motorcycles.

First runners-up will pocket two million (2,000,000) each while the second runners-up will smile to one million (1,000,000) individually.

 Fourth-place finishers will earn five hundred thousand shillings (500,000), while those who will finish in fifth place in every category will get three hundred thousand shillings (300,000).

Cyclists who complete the race but finish outside the top five positions will be appreciated with a token of fifty thousand shillings (50,000) each.

Shakira Nanvubya, after six successful years with the UCU Lady Canons, has finally departed from the Mukono-based club.

In an emotional farewell message, she expressed deep gratitude for her time at UCU, stating, “UCU will forever be home.”

Nanvubya enjoyed immense success with the Lady Canons, capturing six titles during her tenure.

“I feel privileged to have shared so many happy moments with my teammates,” she said, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in her achievements.

While leaving UCU, Nanvubya is excited to embark on a new chapter with JT Lady Jaguars.

“I am happy to be at JT Lady Jaguars. I am still hungry to win more,” she stated, expressing her determination to excel in her new role.

Reflecting on her time at UCU, Nanvubya expressed heartfelt gratitude for the transformative experience.

“I came as a little girl, and now I leave as a grown-up lady,” she emotionally stated, acknowledging the invaluable experiences and opportunities she gained during her time with the club.

Nanvubya’s departure marks the end of an era for the UCU Lady Canons, but her legacy at the university will undoubtedly endure.

JT Jaguars have announced their first signing ahead of the 2025 National Basketball League season.

The side officially unveiled Peter Sifuma, a versatile frontcourt player, after concluding his tenure with the UCU Canons.

Sifuma’s arrival is a major boost for the team having averaged a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds per game last season and joins Fadhil Chuma in what will be a formidable frontcourt.

The Jaguars recently parted ways with Philip Owili and Yesman Bushiri and continue to restructure as the new season nears.

The team impressed in their debut season in the top flight by reaching the playoffs with the player that they gained promotion with from Division I.

Meanwhile, the women’s side JT Lady Jaguars also strengthened their squad with Shakira Nanvubya and Aziida Nabayunga, also from the UCU Lady Canons.

The 2025 National Basketball League is slated to tip off in late February, awaiting confirmation from FUBA.

Uganda She Cranes have started preparations for the 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup, set to take place from February 1-9 at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham and Copper Box Arena in London, England.

The tournament will feature four teams; England Roses, South Africa’s SPAR Proteas, and Malawi’s Queens as well as the She Cranes.

The She Cranes, under the guidance of a new technical team led by Rashid Mubiru and Ruth Meeme, began training at the Makerere University Main Grounds.

The squad has both youth and experience. Season players Stella Oyella (GS/GA/WA) and Wing Defender Sylvia Nanyonga return to the national fold.

Rising midcourt star Joan Reroboth from St. Mary’s SS Kitende has been handed her first national team call-up alongside Police captain Barbara Namukaaya and Rachael Nanyonga as well as familiar names such as Margaret Baagala, Shadiah Nassanga, Irene Eyaru, Mary Nuba, Hanisha Muhammad, and Gloria Aya.

Full Squad

Shooters – Shadiah Nassanga (KCCA), Christine Namulumba (Prisons), Barbara Namukaaya (Police), Rachael Nanyonga (NIC), Irene Eyaru (KCCA), Stella Oyella (UK), Mary Nuba Cholhok (Queensland Firebirds)

Middle Court – Fildauce Namuleme (NIC), Akello Malisera (Prisons), Penelope Amiya (NIC), Joan Reroboth (St Mary’s Kitende), Hindu Namutebi (Police), Margaret Baagala (NIC), Lilian Achola (Weyonje)

Defenders – Sandra Nambirige (NIC), Sylvia Nanyonga (Prisons), Gloria Aya (NIC), Nasim Mutesi (NIC), Christine Nakitto (KCCA), Hanisha Muhameed (KCCA), Kayeny Privas (NIC), Dorah Nakijoba (UPDF

All Fixtures (East African Time)

Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham

Saturday, February 1

• South Africa vs. Uganda – 6:00pm
• England vs. Malawi – 8:00pm

Sunday, February 2

• Malawi vs. Uganda – 5:00pm
• England vs. South Africa – 7:00pm

Copper Box Arena, London

Saturday, February 8

• Malawi vs. South Africa – 6:00pm
• England vs. Ugandan – 8:00pm

Sunday, February 9

• 3rd Place Playoff – 4:30pm
• Final – 7:00pm

The head-to-head between Uganda’s long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo and Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi at the San Silvestre Vallecana in Madrid on New Year’s Eve did not disappoint.

The two favourites in the 10km Road Race fought for victory right from the beginning of the race to the finish line, with a photo-finish needed to determine the winner.

Aregawi was proclaimed champion of this special edition on the 60th anniversary. The Ethiopian clocked 26:32, a new course record and registered the second-fastest 10km road time in history.

https://twitter.com/atletismoRFEA/status/1874365139173937631

Kiplimo also recorded 26:32 in a race that began with a blistering pace that left the competition to just six runners within the opening couple of kilometres and a two-man battle by the eight-minute mark.

Homeboy Adel Mechaal claimed the third spot on the podium with a time of 27:40.

Ugandan long-distance runner Belinda Chemutai closed the year on a bright note, running a personal best in the Women’s 5km.

Chemutai finished third in the World Athletics Label Road Race at the Cursa dels Nassos in Barcelona on Tuesday, December 31 2024.

The Uganda Prisons athlete posted a time of 14:36 to finish in third behind Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa who settled for silver having run 13 seconds faster.

However, above the two was the Paris Olympic Games 5,000m and 10,000m champion Beatrice Chebet of Kenya who clinched Gold with a 13:54 time, a world record time over the distance.

It should be remembered that Chemutai claimed the second edition of the Elgon Half Marathon where she posted 1:11:15.

World Athletics Label Road Race Results | Women

1. Beatrice Chebet (KEN) 13:54
2. Medina Eisa (ETH) 14:23
3. Belinda Chemutai (UGA) 14:36
4. Melknat Wudu (ETH) 14:53
5. Jana Van Lent (BEL) 15:24