Jocelyn Uchanda, a prominent figure in Ugandan netball and a candidate for the Uganda Netball Federation presidency, has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Real Stars Sports Agency. The award ceremony, held on September 3, 2024, at Lazo Restaurant in Kololo, recognized Uchanda’s longstanding dedication and impact on the sport of netball.

As the long-time manager of NIC Netball Club and the Uganda national netball team, the She Cranes, Uchanda has been a driving force in promoting and developing netball in Uganda. Upon receiving the award, she expressed her gratitude and surprise, saying, “I am deeply touched by this recognition. My journey in sports management, especially in netball, has been one of passion and commitment. This award makes me feel truly special and valued.”

Uchanda also congratulated other sports stars who were honored at the event, highlighting the unity and shared passion within the sports community. She remarked, “While I am mostly known for my work in netball, we are all part of one sports family. I congratulate the winners from football, boxing, and basketball. The love and dedication you have for your respective sports are what drive your success.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award, which had previously been awarded to Mukwenda Godfrey Mbalire for his contributions to the Masaza Cup, was passed on to Uchanda, marking her as an influential figure in Ugandan sports.

The ceremony also celebrated outstanding athletes from various sports. In football, Julius Ssenyonga, a 19-year-old goalkeeper from Ssaza Ssingo, was named the best footballer of August. Ssenyonga’s impressive performances, which included three clean sheets in the 2024 Masaza Cup, earned him this recognition, positioning him as a rising star in Ugandan football.

In the basketball category, Lydia Babirye, a USA-based scholar-athlete, was awarded the best basketball player of August. Babirye’s exceptional performance at the Basketball 3×3 World Cup qualifier, where she played a crucial role in securing Uganda’s spot in the upcoming tournament in Mongolia, earned her this accolade. She was chosen over other notable players, including Joel Lukoji of KIU Rangers and Shakira Navubya of UCU Canons.

Boxer John Sserunjoji was also honored as the best boxer of August, marking his second ForteBet Real Stars Sports Monthly Award. Sserunjoji’s standout performance, including a knockout victory against Egypt’s Ahmed Boloshy in the 8th round, secured his place as a top contender in the middleweight division.

The awards, which included cash prizes, were presented by Isaac Mukasa, an aspiring Member of Parliament for Buikwe South, alongside representatives from Jude Colour Solutions and ForteBet.

This event not only celebrated the achievements of Uganda’s top athletes but also honored the contributions of sports leaders like Jocelyn Uchanda, whose efforts continue to shape the future of Ugandan sports.

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