The inaugural African Dragon Boat Racing competition was held on Lake Victoria in Kawuku, Wakiso District, Uganda, from September 30 to October 2, 2026. The event, organized by the African Dragon Boat Federation (ADBF), brought together teams from Uganda, Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, as well as special guests from Singapore and Hong Kong. Alhaji Faruk Kirunda, Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilisation, officiated at the event, commending the longstanding relationship between China and Africa.
Kirunda described sports as an important avenue for strengthening people-to-people ties, tourism, and investment between China and Africa. He noted that the competition was particularly significant as Africa and China mark 70 years of people-to-people friendship. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni conveyed his greetings to the participants and organizers through Kirunda, expressing gratitude to China and the participating countries for supporting the event.
The competition aims to foster unity through sports, showcase African sporting talent, and promote tourism and international friendship. ADBF President, Mr. Ehab Gouda from Egypt, said the event provides an opportunity for countries to meet, collaborate, and explore opportunities beyond sports. He also thanked President Museveni and the Ugandan Government for welcoming the federation and supporting the organization of the competition.
Uganda was considered as a potential future hub for dragon boat activities on the African continent. ADBF Secretary General, Ms. Mary Lai, expressed excitement about introducing the event to Uganda, saying it would strengthen people-to-people links between China and Africa through sports. Participants from different countries expressed enthusiasm about taking part in the inaugural competition.
The Ugandan team, led by Peter Lwanga, had undergone extensive preparations ahead of the competition. Lwanga said the team was optimistic about emerging victorious. Other participants, including Munir Hilmi from Egypt, Idries Meyer and Ibrahim Abrahams from South Africa, and Fredrick Ominde from Kenya, also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate.
The competition also attracted international officials, including Jason Chen, the Chief Race Official from Singapore. Chen expressed pleasure in being part of the inaugural competition in Uganda. Kirunda assured the organizers of the Government's commitment to supporting the continued development of dragon boat racing in Uganda.
The event showcased Uganda's tourism potential, with Kirunda noting that international sporting events can attract visitors and showcase the country's natural attractions. He encouraged tourists to visit Uganda, saying the country is a safe, friendly, and welcoming destination. The competition created opportunities for both tourism and business, with Kirunda describing Uganda as an attractive destination for investment, including in the sports sector.
Key points
- The inaugural African Dragon Boat Racing competition was held in Uganda to strengthen China-Africa ties through sports.
- The event brought together teams from Uganda, Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, as well as special guests from Singapore and Hong Kong.
- Uganda was considered as a potential future hub for dragon boat activities on the African continent.
