The swift expansion of KhoKho across Uganda has taken centre stage at the ongoing Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) National Ball Games II, with the discipline already showing signs of a promising future in school sports.
Making its debut at this year’s championship, the sport has attracted 13 teams, six in the girls’ category highlighting its growing appeal and successful grassroots penetration within a short period.
Uganda KhoKho Federation Technical Director Ephraim Makubuya attributes this rapid spread to deliberate nationwide outreach through school competitions.
“We have intentionally covered different regions, which is why you see schools here representing various parts of the country,” Makubuya explained in an exclusive interview.
“School sports events have made it easier for us to reach different areas. These games provide the perfect platform for expansion—they are the foundation of our grassroots and the future of the sport.”
Makubuya further emphasised the sport’s accessibility as a key driver behind its uptake.
“KhoKho is a low-cost sport. All you need are two wooden poles and a 16 by 22-metre playing area. It is a chase-and-tag game that enhances both physical and mental fitness.
It can be played indoors or outdoors, which makes it easy to organise,” he added.
On the field of play, Day Two delivered a series of high-energy encounters as teams battled for early dominance ahead of the decisive stages.
In the boys’ category, Soroti Secondary School edged Atiira Seed School 66–54 in a tightly contested clash, while Rubongi Army Secondary School secured a 64–54 victory over Serere Secondary School.
The girls’ competition saw equally commanding performances.
Soroti Secondary School overcame Sacred Heart Secondary School 64–45, Kyambogo College delivered one of the day’s biggest wins with an 81–25 thrashing of Serere Township Secondary School, and St. Elizabeth Secondary School registered victory against YY Okot Memorial College.
The group stages are set to conclude on Monday, July 13, with knockout rounds scheduled for Tuesday, July 14. The competition, which commenced on July 8, will culminate on Thursday, July 17.
As KhoKho continues to gain traction, its successful introduction at USSSA level signals not just a new addition to the games programme, but the emergence of a sport poised for sustained national growth.
