The sixth edition of the Jinja Table Tennis Open championship has been officially launched, with City Tyres confirming its continued financial support for the fast-growing regional tournament.
The launch took place on Tuesday, November 18, at the company’s offices on 6th Street, Industrial Area in Kampala.
Photo by Kayiira Jackson
This year’s edition will be hosted at St. Andrews Church Hall in Jinja and is scheduled for November 22-23.
Organizers project a record turnout, with more than 400 participants expected to take part.
According to Daphine Musimenta, a table tennis coach at Mandela Sports, the tournament has played a crucial role in developing young talent and exposing players to competitive platforms.
“Jinja Open is one of the biggest tournaments in East Africa and all players look forward to it.
We’re going to have trophies and cash prizes.
It has helped us nurture and groom kids who have now reached the Africa podium,” Musimenta said.
City Tyres, through the Mandela Group, is financing the Jinja Open for the second consecutive year.
Herbert Basasha, the Group’s Head of Marketing and Communications, revealed the sponsorship package and emphasized their commitment to grassroots sports development.
“Most sports disciplines need a strong youth foundation if they are to reach competitive levels.
With the sports we have supported, we’ve seen results from football U14 to indoor games like badminton and now table tennis,” Basasha said.
“We have provided all trophies, allowances for officials, transport for players to Jinja, and T-shirts for umpires.
Under our Supreme Flour brand, winners will also receive Supreme maize flour.”
The total prize money for this year’s tournament stands at UGX 4 million, to be shared among winners across the various categories.
Competition will feature U13, U19, senior, and corporate divisions for both men and women.
Players from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and several other countries are expected to compete, underscoring the tournament’s growing international appeal.
