Shamika Wins Gold, Uganda International Badminton Challenge

The Uganda International Badminton Challenge earned a significant boost when Fadila Shamika Rafi Mohamed and Tracy Naluwooza returned home with medals from the 2026 All Africa Seniors Championship.

The two arrived at Entebbe International Airport early Wednesday morning to a lively reception. The typically tranquil airport was brimming with energy as dancers from Light Performers Musical Troop welcomed the athletes with traditional music and drums.

Uganda International Badminton Challenge Focus

Shamika won gold in the women’s singles and bronze in doubles with Naluwooza in Gaborone, Botswana. She described the welcome as both humbling and uplifting.

“I never expected this,” Shamika stated. “This pushes me to aim higher.”

She complimented her recent training trip in Mauritius with coach Neersh Remtohal with helping her improve her talents. Shamika also emphasized increased mental strength and solid family support.

Her goals remain clear. She hopes to keep Africa’s top rating and qualify for the 2028 Olympics. A scholarship to the Yonex Peter Gade Academy in Denmark solidifies her destiny.

Home Advantage at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.

The Uganda International Badminton Challenge, held in the Lugogo Indoor Arena in Kampala, is now taking center stage. The event begins nearly quickly, with little time to recover.

Naluwooza, the team’s captain, acknowledged the bronze medal as a stepping stone. She affirmed her readiness for the qualification stages and mentioned that their doubles combination is already in the main draw.

Officials from Badminton Uganda, including CEO Simon Mugabi, attended the reception. Uganda intends to field a formidable team on home soil.

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With momentum on their side, the Uganda International Badminton Challenge now gives Shamika and Naluwooza another opportunity to shine.