International Debutantes
We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible performance of Team Uganda at the Elite Sparkle & Shine Invitational, held on February 28, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. Organized by the Uganda Gymnastics Federation (UGF), our developmental gymnasts took to the international stage to compete in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) under the USAG Level 1–4 framework.
This event wasn’t just a competition; it was a major milestone for our young athletes, serving as a regional gateway to showcase their talent against top clubs from across East Africa.
The talented cast of this production included:
(Back Row l-r) Maya Agassi, Elsie Matanda, Shanice Nakayiwa, Charis Muhumuza,
(Frontrow l-r) Lin Yu Han, Matifadza Kaliyati, Neema Mpaka Shiloh, Adora Mirembe, Zion Muhumuza, and Aleru Aloyo.
Stepping onto the global stage
🌟 Podium Highlights & Medal Summary
For many of our gymnasts, this was their first time competing internationally. Despite the new environment, Team Uganda dominated several podium spots with high execution scores, particularly in floor routines and the balance beam.
Our coaching staff, led by Lea Ampaire and Yiga Mustafa, noted that while our Floor and Vault scores were among the highest in the competition, we have a strategic plan to increase “Difficulty” (D-scores) on the Uneven Bars as our athletes transition to higher levels. The technical stability shown on the balance beam proves that the future of Ugandan gymnastics is incredibly bright.
🇰🇪 A Strategic Step Forward
This invitational is a core part of the UGF’s broader development initiative. Following strategic meetings with the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) earlier this year, we are focusing on three key pillars:
 * Grassroots Nurturing: Using these levels to identify and support our future stars.
 * Regional Dominance: Establishing Uganda as the top contender in East Africa alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
 * Technical Compliance: Ensuring our athletes are judged under the latest USAG and World Gymnastics standards to prepare them for global stages.
❤️ A Special Thank You
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the parents and coaches who traveled to Nairobi to support the team. Your dedication—from the long training hours at academies like Gymnastics and Yoga Company, Karuna and Mustafa Gymnastics to cheering in the stands—is what makes these achievements possible.
The 2026 journey has just begun, and we are successfully laying the groundwork for a sustainable, world-class gymnastics program in Uganda.
Stay tuned for more updates as our athletes continue to sparkle and shine!
For more information or to join a gymnastics club, please contact the UGF Secretariat via info@ugandagymnasticsfederation.com