The City Tyres East Africa Badminton Challenge will return for its ninth edition from October 14–18, promising a broader field, increased prize money and a new competition category as the tournament continues to strengthen its regional footprint.
The 2026 edition was officially launched on Thursday, September 17, in Kampala, with organisers unveiling a number of changes designed to give the event greater identity and competitive appeal.
Among the most notable additions is a Chinese Nationals category, which joins the established school, university, senior, professional, corporate and coaches’ competitions.
Registration is already underway and will close on October 10, with organisers projecting a 15 percent increase in participation from last year’s 1,118 players.
The 2025 edition attracted competitors from 10 countries, including Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Namibia, while Thailand and the Cook Islands were represented through special invitations.
This year’s tournament will also run for five days, from October 14 to 18, extending the competition by a day compared with previous editions.
In another significant development, players will be required to compete in official tournament attire, a move intended to enhance the event’s branding, uniformity and professional presentation.
The prize purse has also continued to grow. From Shs8 million in 2024, the total prize money increased to Shs11 million in 2025, with organisers confirming a further 15 percent increase for this year’s edition.
The trophy haul has equally expanded, with 12 additional trophies added to last year’s total of 125.
Speaking at the launch, Uganda Badminton Chief Executive Officer Simon Mugabi credited the tournament’s growth to the continued backing of Mandela Group and its partner, Linglong Tyres.
“This year returns bigger and better. With improved funding through Mandela Group and its partner Linglong Tyres, we are ready to move.”
Mugabi also hailed the sponsors for their contribution to the development of badminton in Uganda, linking the tournament’s expansion to the country’s growing international stature.
“I laud the sponsorship from Linglong. With their support, this tournament has grown to where it is now. Uganda is number one, Fadillah Shamikah is Africa seed one. All these are a result of Linglong and Mandela Group sponsorship.”
On behalf of Mandela Group, Herbert Bashasha said the company’s involvement was rooted in its commitment to giving back to the community, while expressing satisfaction with the impact of its investment in sport.
“This is a way of giving back to the community. We are glad our efforts are paying off as Uganda continues to shine internationally.”
The tournament will cater for players across the U10, U13, U15 and U19 school categories, alongside university competitions, seniors, individuals, professionals, corporate players, coaches and the newly introduced Chinese Nationals category.
With entries expected to close on October 10, organisers are targeting another record turnout when the ninth edition gets underway in October.
