Team Uganda has begun settling into the Games Village in Dakar, Senegal, ahead of the Youth Olympic Games, with table tennis player Joseph Ssebatindira and rower Marcel Otim becoming the first Ugandan athletes to arrive.
Otim was the first member of the Ugandan contingent to reach Dakar after flying in directly from the United States. He was welcomed by Chef de Mission Lydia Gloria Ssanyu Dhamuzungu and Uganda Olympic Committee administrator Elijah Njawuzi, who arrived late last week as part of the advance team to prepare for the athletes’ reception.
Ssebatindira arrived later alongside a group of team officials, including the National Council of Sports team administrator Ann Nankya, the team medic Miriam Mirembe, safeguarding officer Patricia Ayebare and media attaché Makhtum Muziransa
Also among the arrivals was rowing coach Batenga Nakisozi, who will be assisted by national rower Elijah Namunyu as Uganda prepares for its rowing competition.
The two athletes have already started building friendships and familiarising themselves with life in the Games Village, marking the beginning of Uganda’s participation in the international youth sporting event.
Both athletes have also received their Galaxy Z Flip8 Olympic Edition phones, provided by Olympic partner Samsung.
More Athletes Expected in Dakar
Uganda’s contingent is expected to grow with more athletes arriving as preparations for the Games continue.
The rugby team, led by coach Peter Ochol, is expected to arrive alongside swimmers Zara Marie Mbanga, Peterson Inhensiko, who is travelling from the United Kingdom, and Peyton Mary Suubi, arriving from the United States. They will be accompanied by swimming coach Ezekeri Kalali.
The badminton team will also join the contingent, with player Ramiah Bukenya arriving alongside coach William Kabindi.
Meanwhile, swimmer Arthur Mwase and table tennis player Jemimah Nakawala are expected to join their teammates later in the week after completing their academic commitments.
With the first athletes now settled in the Games Village and more arrivals expected, Team Uganda is steadily assembling in Dakar as the young competitors prepare to represent the country on the international stage.
