Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has met with Clare Akamanzi to discuss plans aimed at developing and professionalising basketball in the country.
The meeting brought together officials from NBA Africa and Ugandan stakeholders to explore strategies for expanding the sport, particularly among young people.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, one of the key proposals is the introduction of an NBA Junior League targeting secondary school students. The initiative is expected to help promote teamwork, discipline and leadership skills while strengthening grassroots basketball development.
The planned programme would involve collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports (Uganda) as part of wider efforts to integrate structured sports development within schools.
Participants at the meeting also discussed ways to build a stronger professional basketball ecosystem in Uganda, aligning with broader initiatives by NBA Africa to grow leagues, partnerships and events across the continent.
Uganda has already gained regional recognition in basketball through clubs such as the City Oilers, which have competed in the Basketball Africa League.
However, some observers have raised questions about the absence of the national basketball federation in the initial discussions about the proposed partnership.
Gen. Kainerugaba, who has previously expressed interest in sports development, emphasised the role basketball can play in youth empowerment and talent development.
NBA Africa continues to expand its presence on the continent through youth programmes, professional competitions and partnerships aimed at strengthening Africa’s basketball ecosystem.
