Uganda’s rising and established stars were celebrated for their international exploits as the ForteBet Real Stars Awards for July were presented at Nanjing Hotel, with standout performances in para swimming and archery taking centre stage.
The ceremony recognised excellence across four disciplines, Swimming, Archery, Basketball, and Rally highlighting athletes who have elevated Uganda’s profile on the global stage.
In the para sports and swimming category, Husnah Kukundakwe’s remarkable Commonwealth Games campaign drew widespread acclaim after she secured a silver medal in the SB8 100m breaststroke.
Her achievement not only underscored her individual brilliance but also signalled the steady rise of para sports in Uganda.
Uganda Paralympic Committee Secretary Irene Nabiseke emphasized the broader significance of such recognition:
“We are proud to receive these awards. They show that our work to develop para sports is being noticed.”
She further lauded Kukundakwe’s discipline and consistency, adding: “the most disciplined athlete I have ever seen.”
Archery’s breakthrough moment belonged to Precious Allan Assimwe, who was honoured following his gold-medal triumph at the African Championships in Oran, Algeria.
His rapid rise, from being discovered in Kabale just two years ago to continental champion marks a significant milestone for the sport.
An emotional Assimwe reflected on his journey:
“This is my first award like this. I thank Uganda Archery Association, my coach Aisha Namukwaya, and the government for the support. It’s great to see talent from western Uganda being celebrated.”
Uganda Archery Association President Richard Assimwe reinforced the sense of momentum, noting that the gold medal is: “just the beginning” for the sport.
In basketball, the Uganda Women’s 3×3 team the Gazelles, were recognised after securing a historic silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.
The quartet of Melissa Akullu, Jane Asinde, Jamila Nansikombi, and Perus Nyamwenge delivered a spirited campaign, overcoming Kenya, Cayman Islands, and Jamaica in Pool A, before edging Tonga in the semifinals and eventually finishing runners-up to Australia.
Reflecting on the journey, Jane Asinde said:
“It was a bumpy journey to Scotland. But we gained courage and confidence competing against the world’s top teams. Coming home with a medal, we glorify God.”
In rally, Hassan Alwi claimed his third ForteBet Real Stars accolade of the year alongside co-driver Musa Nsubuga, underlining their consistency on the circuit.
Alwi: “It’s a team effort. Thank you to our sponsors.”
Nsubuga: “This shows hard work pays off. We share the wins and the losses. Thank you to our families for supporting us in this risky sport.”
The ceremony also paid tribute to trailblazer Catherine Constance Adipo with a Special Recognition Award.
A pioneer in Ugandan refereeing, she earned her FIFA badge in 1995, officiated at the 2000 Africa Women Cup of Nations, and now serves as a CAF/FIFA Instructor.
In her remarks, she said: “Refereeing was male-dominated. I wanted to prove women could do better. I thank ForteBet for this recognition. I hope it inspires young girls. We need fitness, performance, and integrity.”
