New year, new skills!
From January 5th to 9th, 2026, the energy in Mbale was electric as the Uganda Gymnastics Federation (UGF) successfully hosted a flagship Gymnastics for All (GfA) training course. Held at Mbale Secondary School, this intensive five-day program was a cornerstone of UGF’s mission to grow the sport across every region of Uganda. By focusing on capacity building, the federation is ensuring that gymnastics isn't just a city sport—it’s a movement for everyone.
CAMP HIGHLIGHTS
WHY GYM FOR ALL?
Gymnastics for All is the inclusive, non-competitive heart of our sport. It’s built on the “Four Fs”: Fun, Fitness, Fundamentals, and Friendship. Unlike other elite gymnastic disciplines, GfA is designed for every age and ability level, making it the perfect tool for physical education in our schools.
EMPOWERING OUR EDUCATORS
The course brought together 15 passionate Physical Education teachers from 12 schools and 7 districts across the Eastern region, including Tororo, Butebo, Jinja, Katakwi, Kaliro, and Mbale.
Led by Yiga Mustafa, TC President for Gymnastics for All, and supported by the mentorship of Marti Heri from Gymnastics South Africa, the participants dove deep into:
* Safety First: Equipping coaches with the knowledge to create a secure environment for every student.
* Creative Lesson Planning: Learning how to design fun, engaging stations that keep students moving.
* Foundation Skills: Mastering the basic techniques needed to build a strong gymnastics foundation in their respective schools.
VOICES FROM THE CAMP
The impact of the week was clear. Participants shared that they felt truly “equipped” to return to their districts—from Nasenyi Primary to Kalalaka Primary—and introduce these new skills to their pupils.
The Guest of Honour at the Award Ceremony, Mr Fred Mafabi, the Chairman of Uganda Secondary School Sports Association in Mbale City, was impressed by the enthusiasm of the teachers. He encouraged them to be innovative and tireless in their pursuit of excellence in gymnastics.
“In conclusion, Gymnastics for All Uganda is getting to be known and spread steadily,” noted Yiga Mustafa in his final report. “The participants promised to transfer the same knowledge to their students when they go back to their respective schools.
IMPACT AND FUTURE DIRECTION
This training is just the beginning of a massive 2026 for Ugandan gymnastics. With Artistic Gymnastics confirmed for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and eyes on the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, building a strong grassroots foundation through our teachers is more important than ever.
A huge thank you to all the teachers who participated and to the Uganda Gymnastics Federation for their vision in flipping Uganda forward—one gymnast at a time!
Want to bring Gymnastics for All to your school or district? Follow us for updates on our next regional training camp!