)
Two weeks ago, it was at Kyamys, Bwaise, where the Bombers were flagged off to showcase their talents in Cameroon. On Wednesday, the same venue buzzed with jubilation and pride as the team returned to celebrate their remarkable feat.
During a random walk through the slums of Bwaise, it is easy to stumble upon the chant ‘Ba mando, abatapowa, ba turn left, ba turn right’. It can pass as one of the loud voices on repeat for vendors selling either phones or insect exterminators.
For the residents of Bwaise, its not a chant that absolutely has no meaning, but rather one that carries a deep attachment to the youth of the area, especially those from the special boxing clan.
Two weeks ago, it was at Kyamys, Bwaise, where the Bombers were flagged off to showcase their talents in Cameroon. On Wednesday, the same venue buzzed with jubilation and pride as the team returned to celebrate their remarkable feat.
In a heartwarming gesture of community spirit, the Bombers shared their recent success at the Africa Elite Boxing Championship with the Ghetto Youths of Bwaise and Kawaala.
The team's triumphant return from Yaoundé, Cameroon, with seven medals was not just a victory for the players, but for an entire community that stood behind them.
The celebration was not merely symbolic. It had a hearty feast, including bull roasting and other festivities, filling the air with jubilation.
Silver medalist Ssali Wasswa conveyed the importance of the occasion: "Ghetto nurtured us and now we are inspirational figures in the country.”
“I believe anyone from the slums can achieve success just like me so it was important for us to share our joy with the people who know us better.”
The medal haul from the championship is testament to the hard work, dedication, and spirit of the team. Uganda's impressive performance marked its best ever at the Africa Boxing Championship, finishing ninth.
The silver medalists, Ssali Wasswa Amir and Erina Namutebi, were awarded $10,000 each, while the bronze medalists, Ukasha Matovu, Geko Solomon, Ronald Okello, Grace Nankinga, and team captain Emily Nakalema, each received $5,000.
While the revelry was rife, there was also a sense of gratitude and reflection. Matovu Ukasha, a fan-favourite, expressed his appreciation, saying, "Thank you for praying for us. We didn't ashame you and we managed to deliver like we promised."
Moses Muhangi, the UBF boss, highlighted the significance of the event, saying, "It is important for us as a Federation to always give back to our communities where we get our boxers, our talents from.”
“We had to return back to our people so that we stay connected with them and give them encouragement."
Muhangi, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between the community and the team, mentioned future celebrations in places like Kawempe, Kamwokya, or Gulu, adding, “We want to emphasize that Boxing is a community Sport and you can only associate with Communities if you want to succeed.”
The event was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the power of community and a beacon of hope for many young aspirants.
As one youth, Kafeero, optimistically remarked, the event has provided a sense of belonging, inspiring them not just in boxing but in life.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)