Uganda Women’s Handball Team Ends 45-Year Hiatus at Africa Senior Nations Cup 2023
Uganda’s women’s handball team will return to the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup after a 45-year absence. The tournament will occur from November 27 to December 7 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Captain Shakirah Bako stated the team feels confident despite their lack of experience. She acknowledged the competition would be tough, but emphasized their rigorous training has prepared them.
Head coach Jimmy Remmie Orotin noted that players are motivated after participating in the African Games in Ghana in 2023. The Ugandan team earned their spot in the Africa Senior Nations Cup by finishing fifth at these Games.
What challenges does Uganda’s women’s handball team face during their return to the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup?
Interview with Team Captain Shakirah Bako and Head Coach Jimmy Remmie Orotin on Uganda’s Historic Return to the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup
Introduction: After a 45-year hiatus, Uganda’s women’s handball team is gearing up for their return to the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup, set to take place from November 27 to December 7 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We sat down with team captain Shakirah Bako and head coach Jimmy Remmie Orotin to discuss the team’s preparations, motivations, and aspirations for the tournament.
Interviewer: Shakirah, how does it feel for you and the team to return to the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup after such a long absence?
Shakirah Bako: It’s a tremendous honor for us to represent Uganda in this prestigious tournament. We feel proud but also aware of the challenges ahead. While we may lack experience on this international stage, our confidence comes from the rigorous training we’ve undertaken. We believe in our skills and teamwork, and we’re excited to show what we’re capable of.
Interviewer: Coach Orotin, how has the training been for the team leading up to this competition?
Jimmy Remmie Orotin: Training has been intense and focused. The players have shown incredible commitment, especially following our participation in the African Games in Ghana earlier this year. That experience has really motivated them and helped us build a strong sense of unity and purpose. We’ve been working hard on our strategies, defense, and overall game plan to ensure we are well-prepared.
Interviewer: Shakirah, could you share some insights on the competition you expect to face in Pool B?
Shakirah Bako: It’s going to be tough. We’re in a demanding pool with strong teams like DR Congo, Angola, Tunisia, Guinea, and Cameroon. We respect all our opponents, but we are not intimidated. Every match is an opportunity for us to learn and grow. Our goal is to compete fiercely and make Uganda proud.
Interviewer: Coach Orotin, how do you feel about the team’s chances in the tournament and its importance for qualifying for the 2025 World Handball Championship?
Jimmy Remmie Orotin: This tournament is crucial, not just for our pride but for our future. As a qualifier for the 2025 World Handball Championship, we understand the stakes. We have a capable squad, and while our aim is to progress through the matches, what’s equally important is the experience the players will gain. That experience will be invaluable, regardless of the outcome.
Interviewer: Mr. Patrick Ogwel, as the General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, can you share your thoughts on the significance of this event for Uganda?
Patrick Ogwel: Absolutely. This is a moment of immense pride for Uganda. The women’s handball team’s return after 45 years is a testament to the growth and development of sports in the country. I believe they are well-prepared and will represent us with honor. Our support for them goes beyond just the tournament; it’s about fostering a culture of sports excellence for future generations.
Interviewer: what message do you both want to send out to supporters back home as the team prepares for this tournament?
Shakirah Bako: We want to thank everyone for their support. Your encouragement means the world to us, and we promise to give our all on the court. We hope to make you proud.
Jimmy Remmie Orotin: Yes, we are grateful for the support. Having the nation behind us motivates the players to perform at their best. We encourage all Ugandans to rally behind the team—this is just the beginning of what we hope will be a successful journey for women’s handball in Uganda.
Closing: Uganda’s women’s handball team is poised to make history in the Africa Senior Nations Handball Cup, and with leadership and determination, the future looks bright for these talented athletes.
Patrick Ogwel, General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, expressed pride in Uganda’s return. He believes the team is well-prepared and will represent the nation proudly.
The championship also serves as a qualifier for the 2025 World Handball Championship. Uganda is in Pool B with DR Congo, Angola, Tunisia, Guinea, and Cameroon. Pool A includes the Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Cape Verde, and Kenya.