Uganda has officially joined the countdown to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, launching the King’s Baton Relay in a colourful ceremony at the Uganda Olympic Committee headquarters in Lugogo.
The symbolic event, held earlier on Thursday, signaled the country’s formal entry into the Games journey.
It brought together diplomats, sports officials, and athletes in a show of unity, pride, and anticipation. Key guests included British Deputy High Commissioner Tiffany Kirlew, Uganda’s International Olympic Committee member William Blick, and several heads of national federations.
The King’s Baton Relay, which started on Commonwealth Day at Buckingham Palace, is one of the most iconic traditions in the lead-up to the Games.
This year marks a unique shift — for the first time, each of the 74 participating nations and territories has been given a personalised baton crafted from Scottish ash. Uganda’s baton will be decorated to reflect local identity, culture, and creativity.
The baton will now travel across the country, sparking national pride and engagement as it moves through communities. The relay goes beyond sport — it celebrates unity, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability.
The upcoming 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2, 2026.
It will feature a leaner sports program with eight main disciplines, including athletics, swimming, netball, judo, boxing, artistic gymnastics, weightlifting, and 3×3 basketball.
Uganda has competed at the Commonwealth Games since 1954, gradually cementing its place as a sporting force.
At the last Games in Birmingham in 2022, Uganda sent 72 athletes across 12 sports and returned with five medals — three gold and two bronze. Jacob Kiplimo dominated the track with wins in both the 5,000m and 10,000m, Victor Kiplangat clinched gold in the marathon, while Peruth Chemutai and Teddy Nakimuli earned bronzes in steeplechase and boxing respectively.
