Nangonzi Judith Parvin showcased impressive skills at the table tennis arena, securing a spot at the pre-qualifiers for the 13th All African Games. With two victories out of three games on day one in Accra, Ghana, she advanced to the round of 16 in the Paris Olympics pre-qualifiers.
Parvin demonstrated skill and strategy, securing an early lead against Angola’s Moises Nelma in the opening game, ultimately clinching victory. She continued her winning streak by defeating Tunisia’s top-seeded player, Zoglami Mariam, in a closely contested match. However, she faced defeat against Egypt’s Helmy Yousra in the women’s singles event.
Uganda’s seed one player, Nakawala Jemimah, was another notable performer, progressing to the second round after defeating Zambia’s Mihiduo Ruth. She, however, faced a setback against Tunisia’s Garci Fadwa.
Similarly, Uganda’s Senyonga Jonathan, advanced to the next round after defeating Sierra Leone’s Koroma Emmanuel but fell short against Algeria’s Kherouf Sami.
Despite some wins, less experienced players such as Joseph Sebatidira and Sharif Nsereko faced challenges due to nerves and high expectations in their debut championship.
Uganda’s table tennis president, Robert Jaggwe, acknowledged the difficulties faced by inexperienced players, emphasizing the learning curve and the need for more exposure.
“We had some wins and losses. You know when it’s your very first time, you have tension and a lot of expectations, a lot of fear. This played against some of our players,” he said.
As the action continues on Wednesday, March 6th, with the Team Events, all three ladies will participate. For the men’s team, the coach will likely select Jonathan Senyonga and Samuel Ankunda, with the third spot between Joseph Sebatindira and Sharif Nsereko yet to be decided.
