Uganda Set to Host Top Badminton Players in 2026 International Challenge
Kampala, Uganda is preparing to welcome some of the world’s best badminton players for the Uganda International Badminton Challenge, scheduled to seize place from February 18th to 22nd, 2026, at the Lugogo Indoor Arena. The tournament will feature competition in singles (men & women), doubles (men & women), and mixed doubles.
Global Participation and Ranking Points
A total of 41 countries are expected to participate in the championship, with players vying for crucial ranking points. The event is particularly significant as it offers 4000 points relevant to qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games in the May cycle.
Prize Money and Tournament Level
The Uganda International Badminton Challenge boasts a total prize fund of $20,000, awarded to the top performers across all categories. This tournament has been running since 2004.
Star Players Expected to Compete
The competition is expected to draw elite athletes, including Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng (China), Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand), Anders Antonsen (Denmark), and Jonatan Christie (Indonesia) in the men’s singles. Leading female players anticipated to participate include An Se Young (South Korea), Wang Zhi Yi (China), and Akane Yamaguchi (Japan). Top doubles teams such as Kim Won Ho & Seo Seung Jae (South Korea), and Aaron Chia & Soh Wooi Yik (Malaysia) are also slated to compete.
Uganda Badminton Association’s Preparations
Simon Mugabi, CEO of the Uganda Badminton Association (UBA), highlighted the opportunity for Ugandan players to compete against the world’s best and improve their skills. Ugandan players Gladys Mbabazi and Muzafaru Lubega, recently returned from the All Africa Badminton Championship in Botswana, are prepared to participate.
Sponsorship and Support
The UBA has secured partnerships with several sponsors and organizations, including Mandela Group of Companies, the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC), the National Council of Sports (NCS), Bank of Baroda, Shuttle Time, Plascon, the Badminton World Federation (BWF), and Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA). Herbert Bashasha, marketing manager at Mandela Group of Companies, emphasized the growing popularity of badminton and the company’s commitment to supporting the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates of the 2026 Uganda International Badminton Challenge?
The tournament will be held from February 18th to 22nd, 2026.
Where will the tournament take place?
The event will be hosted at the Lugogo Indoor Arena in Kampala, Uganda.
What is the total prize money for the tournament?
The total prize fund is $20,000.
How many countries are expected to participate?
Approximately 41 countries are expected to send players to the competition.
Explore more badminton news and events on the Badminton World Federation website.
