The Uganda U-21 women’s hockey team is set to make history as they prepare for their maiden appearance at the Junior Africa Cup, scheduled to take place in Windhoek, Namibia from April 18 to 27.
The continental tournament also doubles as a qualification event for the 2025 Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile, with the top three teams earning automatic berths.
A 17-player squad was officially flagged off on Monday at an event held at Copper Chimney, Lugogo. The send-off ceremony was presided over by James Kasumba, a Sports Officer at the National Council of Sports (NCS), who represented the General Secretary.
Kasumba encouraged the team to emulate Uganda’s U-17 football side, which previously made history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
“I have flagged you off, please go and make history like the way the football team of U-17 did,” Kasumba said.
Head coach Nsereko Moses Christopher acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead but expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and mindset.
He highlighted the team’s discipline and dedication throughout a rigorous two-month training program, noting their readiness to face some of Africa’s top hockey nations.
“We know the level of competition, especially from teams like South Africa and Namibia, but our goal is to reach the semi-finals and push for World Cup qualification,” Nsereko said.
Uganda’s participation in the Junior Africa Cup marks a significant milestone in the country’s hockey development.
