Uganda’s Mbabazi and Kobugabe Strike Gold in Badminton Doubles at African Games
The badminton duo of Gladys Mbabazi and Husnah Kobugabe won Uganda’s first gold medal at the ongoing 13th edition of the African Games in Accra, Ghana on Sunday March 10, 2024 at the multipurpose Boryteman Sports Complex.
The Badminton duo of Gladys Mbabazi (L)and Husnah Kobugabe (c) after winning medals
On Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the multipurpose Boryteman Sports Complex in Accra, Ghana, the badminton team of Gladys Mbabazi and Husnah Kobugabe won Uganda’s first gold medal at the current 13th edition of the African Games.
The duo defeated the Algerian duo of Tanina Violette Mammeri and Halla Bouksani in the final winning two sets straight (23-21, 21:14).
Husna Kobugabe with the gold and silver medals
Gladys Mbabazi and Husnah Kobugabe defeated the Egyptian duo Hany Doha and Ahmed Youssri in the semi-finals in a 2-0 victory.
Kobugabe was delighted with her teammate to have won Uganda’s first gold medal.
Their path to victory was paved with challenges, notably a narrow escape in the round of 16 that served as a wake-up call, fueling their determination to succeed. Despite facing tough opponents, they remained focused on their goal, ultimately triumphing over Mauritius and Egypt to secure their place in the finals.
“We are delighted to have the first gold medal at the games and feel thrilled to have our national anthem played at the grand stage,” Kobugabe said.
Additional, Kobugabe wins silver in the women singles at the event. Mbabazi won bronze in the 12th edition of the games in Rabat with Aisha Nakiyemba.
“it’s a proud moment for us securing our country’s first-ever gold in Badminton,” Uganda’s coach William Kabindi said after making history.
“It is a testament to the hard work of our athletes. It is collective effort that has brought these results,” Kabindi added.
The duo join swimmer Anna Gloria Muzito who had earlier won Uganda first medal on Saturday March 9, 2024 in the women’s 100m free style race inside the Aquatics Centre at Borteyman Sport Complex in Accra.
Uganda’s medal tally is at three with Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
