Uganda’s Para Swimming Team made waves on the international stage at the prestigious World Para Swimming Series held in Lignano Sabbiadoro, Italy, from 12th to 15th March 2026. More than just a competition, this journey was a major milestone for Uganda’s growing presence in international Para swimming, marked by successful classifications, personal bests, African records, and inspiring performances.
For Team Uganda, this trip was not only about medals, it was about growth, representation, and proving that Ugandan Para swimmers are ready to compete with the world’s best.
Team Uganda’s Journey to Italy
The team departed Uganda on 7th March and arrived safely in Italy on 8th March, ready to compete and participate in one of the world’s biggest Para swimming events. Hosted at Bella Italia Village in Lignano Sabbiadoro, the competition brought together nearly 400 athletes from 40 nations, making it one of the largest Para swimming events of the year.
Uganda’s delegation consisted of eight members:
- 4 Athletes
- 4 Team Officials
This included swimmers Husnah Kukundakwe, Condoleezza Nakazibwe, Enock Ssekitende, and Joshua Asiimwe Muyunga.
Uganda’s star swimmer Husnah Kukundakwe underwent classification review on 11th March 2026, where her class was successfully maintained as: S8, SB8, and SM8 ,She received a Fixed Review status for 2027 and Joshua Asiimwe Muyunga also completed his first international classification and was classified as: S9, SB9 and SM9 , He earned a Fixed Review status for 2029.
These successful outcomes are a huge step forward for Uganda because they strengthen the country’s international competitiveness and increase opportunities for future participation at elite events.
Flying Uganda’s Flag High at the Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony on 11th March 2026 was a proud and emotional moment for Team Uganda. All 40 participating nations gathered at Bella Italia Village, where Uganda proudly marched with Enock Ssekitende and Joshua Asiimwe Muyunga serving as flag bearers.
Outstanding Performances in the Pool
Uganda’s swimmers delivered exceptional performances throughout the competition:
- New African Records
- New National Records
- Multiple Personal Bests (PBs)
- Improved World Rankings
Husnah Kukundakwe reached finals in all her events, continuing to prove why she is one of Uganda’s top Paralympic talents.
Condoleezza Nakazibwe also made remarkable progress by qualifying for two Youth Finals, showing Uganda’s bright future in Para swimming.
These achievements demonstrate clear progress for Uganda’s Para Swimming program and highlight the athletes’ dedication, discipline, and international potential.
Why This Event Matters for Uganda
This competition marked visible growth for Uganda Para Swimming. Uganda now has four fully internationally classified swimmers, a major achievement for the National Paralympic movement.
This means:
- Greater eligibility for international competitions
- Stronger representation at future World Series events
- Increased chances for Paralympic qualification
- Expanded development for Para sports in Uganda
Looking Ahead
The World Para Swimming Series Lignano Sabbiadoro 2026 was a success for Uganda—not only because of the records and performances, but because it demonstrated resilience, preparation, and national pride.
Uganda’s Para swimmers continue to break barriers, inspire future generations, and raise the country’s flag higher on the world stage.
As Uganda builds momentum in Para swimming, this event will be remembered as another important chapter in the nation’s Paralympic journey.
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