Uganda Athletics Team Enters Residential Camp Ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

Uganda’s national athletics team has entered a residential training camp in Kapkoros, Bukwo District, as preparations intensify for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The 17-athlete contingent reported to camp on Sunday, July 05, and officially begins training this morning. The residential programme will run until July 22, when the team is expected to depart for Scotland.

Uganda Athletics General Secretary Beatrice Ayikoru says the camp is intended to maximize athlete performance and strengthen team cohesion ahead of the Games. Ayikoru says athletes will follow customized training programmes under a technical team led by Head Coach Paul Okello, who also serves as the federation’s Organizing Secretary.

According to Ayikoru, Bukwo was selected because its weather conditions closely resemble those expected in Glasgow during the competition period. “The temperatures expected during the Games are relatively warm, and Bukwo offers similar conditions. We want our athletes to acclimatize early and be comfortable competing under those conditions,” Ayikoru said.

She adds that bringing the athletes together in one residential camp will help build unity and sharpen their collective focus ahead of the multi-sport event. “We are going as one team representing Uganda. Training together allows the athletes to bond, motivate each other and prepare as a unit,” she added.

Head Coach Paul Okello says the technical team has designed individualized training programmes while maintaining a strong team approach. “The camp gives us an opportunity to closely work with every athlete, fine-tune their preparations and ensure they are physically and mentally ready to compete at the highest level,” Okello said.

Oscar Chelimo, the bronze medallist in the 5,000 metres at the 2022 World Athletics Championships, welcomed the residential training programme, saying it will strengthen teamwork and improve performance. “When we come together in one camp, we learn from each other and build team spirit. It motivates everyone to work harder because we are all preparing to represent Uganda,” Chelimo said.

The women’s team is headlined by Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Peruth Chemutai, former world 800-metre champion Halimah Nakaayi and World Cross Country silver medallist Joy Cheptoyek. Other selected athletes are Shida Leni (400m), Banura Maureen Akii (400m), Aciru Knight (1,500m), Chelangat Rebecca (5,000m) and Esther Chebet (5,000m).

The men’s team comprises Oscar Chelimo, Adoli Haron (400m), Omuka Kenneth (400m), Silas Chemutai (Mile), Kiprop Dominic (5,000m), Kibet Dan (5,000m), Kiprop Kenneth (5,000m), Kibet Herbert (10,000m) and Otim David Berkham (Long Jump). The athletes will be supported by a technical team comprising Paul Okello as Coach and Team Manager, Issamat Jimmy (Coach), Oding Quinto (Coach and Physiotherapist), and Suzan Laker (Administrator).Uganda Athletics President Dominic Otuchet says the federation is confident the selected team has the potential to challenge for medals in Glasgow. “We have assembled a balanced team of experienced athletes and promising young talent. We believe they have what it takes to compete strongly in Glasgow and continue Uganda’s proud tradition of excellence in athletics,” Otuchet said.

Uganda heads to Glasgow aiming to build on its impressive Commonwealth Games record, particularly in long-distance events where the country has consistently challenged the world’s leading athletics nations. At the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Uganda won four medals, including golds through Jacob Kiplimo in the 5,000m and 10,000m, and Victor Kiplangat in the men’s marathon. Peruth Chemutai also claimed bronze in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase.