Kigali, Rwanda | 27 July 2026
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has held fresh talks with NBA Africa Chief Executive Officer Clare Akamanzi in Kigali over plans to develop and professionalise basketball in Uganda.
The meeting followed initial discussions held in Uganda in March and focused on strengthening cooperation between NBA Africa and the Ugandan government, particularly in grassroots development and the creation of opportunities for young basketball players.
Among the proposals discussed was a partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports to establish a Junior NBA League targeting secondary schools across Uganda.
The proposed programme would introduce students to structured basketball training and competition while promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership and a strong work ethic.
Beyond identifying and nurturing young talent, the initiative could provide a pathway for promising players to progress from school basketball to national competitions and eventually professional leagues on the continent and beyond.
The Kigali talks also examined NBA Africa’s broader strategy of working with African governments and private-sector partners to strengthen sports infrastructure and unlock economic opportunities connected to basketball.
These opportunities include investment in broadcasting and digital services, tourism, hospitality and the creative industries, reflecting the growing role of sport as both a youth-development platform and a driver of economic activity.
Uganda has already established a presence in continental basketball through City Oilers and Namuwongo Blazers, which have represented the country in the NBA-backed Basketball Africa League.
The discussions also come amid plans to expand access to NBA content in Uganda. Uganda Broadcasting Corporation and NBS Television are expected to begin broadcasting NBA games in September, potentially exposing more Ugandans to the league and increasing interest in basketball.
Combining wider television coverage with grassroots programmes such as the proposed Junior NBA League could help Uganda establish a stronger basketball talent pipeline while improving the country’s competitiveness at regional and continental levels.
Akamanzi has led NBA Africa since January 2024, overseeing efforts to grow basketball, the NBA and the Basketball Africa League through grassroots programmes, media distribution, commercial partnerships and social-impact initiatives across the continent.
