Jocelyn Uchanda, a leading figure in Ugandan netball and a presidential candidate for the Uganda Netball Federation, was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Real Stars Sports Agency. The award was presented during a ceremony held on September 3, 2024, at Lazo Restaurant in Kololo, recognizing Uchanda’s exceptional contributions to netball over the years.

As the long-serving manager of both NIC Netball Club and the Uganda national netball team (She Cranes), Uchanda has been instrumental in the growth and success of netball in Uganda. Upon receiving the award, she expressed her deep appreciation, stating, “This recognition is incredibly meaningful to me. My journey in netball has been fueled by passion and dedication, and it’s an honor to be acknowledged in this way.”

Uchanda also praised the efforts of athletes from various sports who were honored at the event, underscoring the unity within the sports community. She remarked, “While netball is my primary focus, we are all part of one sports family. I commend the winners in football, boxing, and basketball for their dedication. The love for what you do is what drives success.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award, previously given to Mukwenda Godfrey Mbalire for his work with the Masaza Cup, has now been bestowed upon Uchanda, marking her as a key figure in Ugandan sports history.

The event also celebrated other top performers from different sports disciplines. Julius Ssenyonga, the 19-year-old goalkeeper from Ssaza Ssingo, was named the best footballer of August. Ssenyonga’s stellar performance, which included three clean sheets in the 2024 Masaza Cup, secured his place as a rising star in Ugandan football.

In basketball, Lydia Babirye, a scholar-athlete based in the USA, won the award for the best basketball player of August. Babirye’s MVP performance at the Basketball 3×3 World Cup qualifier played a crucial role in Uganda’s qualification for the tournament in Mongolia. She was selected over strong competitors like Joel Lukoji of KIU Rangers and Shakira Navubya of UCU Canons.

John Sserunjoji was recognized as the best boxer of August, earning his second ForteBet Real Stars Sports Monthly Award. Sserunjoji’s knockout victory in the 8th round against Egypt’s Ahmed Boloshy highlighted his skill in the middleweight division.

The awards, accompanied by cash prizes, were presented by Isaac Mukasa, an aspiring Member of Parliament for Buikwe South, alongside representatives from Jude Colour Solutions and ForteBet.

This ceremony not only honored the remarkable achievements of Uganda’s top athletes but also celebrated the enduring impact of sports leaders like Jocelyn Uchanda, who continue to inspire and shape the future of Ugandan athletics.