Moses Muhangi, the incumbent President of the Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF), has thrown his hat into the ring for a third term in office, citing his achievements in restoring the sport’s image and expanding its reach.
Ushered into boxing leadership on 20th January 2018, Muhangi has greatly changed the face of boxing in just a few years despite internal fights, under funding and COVID -19 and its post effects.
In an exclusive interview with Nim Media Media, Muhangi reflected on his eight-year stewardship, highlighting significant milestones, including increased sponsorship, improved technical standards, participation for both fans and boxers, creating a corporate image, Boxing league and a rise in medal wins.
“We have brought back the image of boxing. People can now embrace the game,” Muhangi said, pointing to initiatives like corporate boxing and televised events.
He also emphasized structural reforms, noting, “We are now adhering to the law and spreading the sport across the country. Currently, boxing is in over 120 districts nationwide.”
Ahead of a third term, Muhangi’s manifesto focuses on commercial growth and professionalism, aiming to boost sponsorship, expand gyms, and develop professional boxing.
“We want to increase the number of sponsors, expand the number of gyms across the country, and grow professional boxing so that boxers can actually earn from the sport,” he stated.
On Uganda’s struggles to win gold medals at World, Commonwealth and Olympics, Muhangi identified under funding and poor preparation as the key challenge.
“Preparation and under funding are the main issue, and that’s what we want to handle in the coming term.
Failure to compete at the mentioned events is not only a federation problem—it also involves government, boxers and coaches,” he said.
Muhangi dismissed claims that electoral eligibility requirements are restrictive, saying, “The qualifications are normal, a national technical officer certificate or its International equivalence and five years of service to the sport, UACE certificate. The requirements can’t be an excuse.”
As the UBF elections approach on February 28, 2026, Muhangi remains the sole candidate, with nomination forms available until February 6.
“I can’t say people won’t pick forms because the days are still there. But if they don’t, maybe they fear to fit in my shoes.
Boxing is expensive—every year I can spend about one billion shillings. How many people in Uganda can decide to part with that amount annually?” he questioned.
Since Muhangi’s administration gained power, there has been improved corporate image, corporate sponsorships, participation by both boxers and fans, competition and visibility in Boxing.
However, the sport’s major problems are currently poor infrastructure and inadequate government funding.
Muhangi has also failed to secure a permanent home for boxing despite being his top manifesto agenda in the first term.
However, he has through lobbying acquired land in Gombe, in Nansana Municipality from Buganda Kingdom and Central government in different towns all pending titles procurement.
