The Uganda Pool Cranes are on the move again, ready to shake up the continental tables at the Ultimate Challenge in Mpumulanga, South Africa.
Known for their fearless and tactical play, the Ugandan cue stars were officially flagged off yesterday at the National Council of Sports in Lugogo.
Senior Sports Officer Sarah Anne Nankya and Sports Officer Ivan Niwamanya presided over the ceremony, urging the team to carry the national flag with pride and defend Uganda’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s pool powerhouses.
Sixteen players, split evenly between men and women, will represent the country, alongside six officials. They depart for South Africa tomorrow, with the tournament set to break off on Monday and run for five days.
The Ultimate Challenge brings together top pool professionals from across the globe, with its main circuit based in the United Kingdom. African players fight through regional qualifiers for a chance to join the lucrative global series, and Uganda has increasingly made its mark in recent years.
Last year, team captain Rashid Wagaba and Ceaser Chandiga flew the Ugandan flag high in Morocco, with Chandiga’s stellar display earning him a ticket to compete in the UK edition. This year, he returns as one of the stars to watch. However, local fans will also be keeping tabs on Azali Lukomwa, who dominated the national qualifiers, and Joseph Kasozi, Uganda’s top seed.
The women’s side is equally stacked, featuring the experienced Zaimat Nabafu and Rashida Mutesi, alongside emerging talents like Amina Faith Nganda and Marion Kisakye.
Team Uganda: Pool Cranes Squad for Ultimate Challenge 2025
Women:
Zaimat Nabafu, Rashida Mutesi, Ritah Nimusiima, Jacinta Kajubi, Amina Faith Nganda, Juliet Namuhanga, Rukia Naiga, Marion Kisakye
Men:
Simon Lubuulwa, Ian Kazibwe, Ibra Kayanja, Ibra Sejjemba, Ceaser Chandiga, Azali Lukomwa, Joseph Kasozi, Rashid Wagaba
