The recently concluded U19 Girls High-Performance Camp held in Jinja marked a significant step forward for the development of women’s cricket in Uganda.
Bringing together 26 of the most promising young cricketers from across the country, the 10-day residential camp (21st–31st October) was designed to sharpen the technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects of the players ahead of crucial international assignments—including next year’s ICC U19 Girls World Cup Qualifiers.
Hosted at Jinja Secondary School, the camp served as an intensive preparation platform and a talent incubator, aligning with Uganda Cricket Association’s vision of building a more competitive and resilient national team at the youth level.
Holistic Player Development: Beyond the Basics
The players engaged in high-intensity sessions covering:
- Batting, bowling, and fielding fundamentals
- Fitness and strength conditioning
- Game awareness and match simulations
- Mental resilience and psychological preparedness
Additionally, the girls received mentorship in areas like discipline, leadership, and teamwork—factors considered vital in high-pressure tournaments.
To further enrich the experience, members of the senior men’s national team—the Cricket Cranes—joined the camp, offering invaluable guidance and inspiration.
Their presence helped bridge the gap between junior and senior levels, giving the girls a glimpse into the demands of international cricket.
Why This Camp Was Timely
Uganda’s U19 girls’ team has come close to World Cup qualification in recent years but has narrowly missed out:
- 2022 in Botswana – lost to Rwanda in the semi-finals
- 2024 in Kigali – fell short against Zimbabwe in the semi-finals
These near-misses prompted the High-Performance Department to take a more proactive and long-term approach.
According to Head of High Performance, Richard Okia, this camp represents a strategic shift:
“The Jinja U19 camp has been an eye-opener for both players and coaches.
We’ve seen encouraging strides in skills development, but more importantly, the growth in the players’ confidence and professionalism.
This camp has laid a strong foundation as we prepare to take on bigger challenges.”
Selection Process: A Nation-Wide Search for Talent
Players were selected based on:
- Age eligibility
- Performance in the domestic T20 League
- Standout displays during the Girls Schools Cricket Week (Gulu, May 2025)
Taking charge of the camp were Robinson Turinawe and Jonathan Sebanja as coaches, Sandra Achawo as the manager, and Habiba Anguyo serving as the physiotherapist. Talent scouts identified emerging players from diverse regions and schools, resulting in a rich blend of skill sets and backgrounds. Notably, Sarah Tino—who was a reserve in the previous U19 squad—featured in the camp, signalling her continued development.
Key Takeaways and Positive Impact
- Boost in Confidence:
Players demonstrated increased self-belief and mental fortitude over the course of the camp. - Stronger Team Chemistry:
Structured team-bonding exercises enhanced unity, a crucial factor in tournament play. - Enhanced Talent Identification:
Coaches gained clearer insights into individual player strengths and areas for improvement—critical for team selection moving forward.
Future Stars to Watch
According to Richard Okia, here are some of the most promising players by discipline:
Batters
Ilora Joan, Sheila Namagoba, Leila Nalukenge, Prudence Lamara, Judith Nakasagaa, Jolly Ithungu, Resty Nakumansi
Spinners / All-rounders
Sarah Tino, Divine Gabriella Nyamer, Blessing Noeline Apio, Hanifa Noreen, Sonia Nampeera
Pace Bowlers
Elizabeth Nakibuule, Hasifa Naula, Jackline Lalam, Asha MuKite
Schools Represented at the Camp |
|
School |
Players |
|
Kilembe S.S. |
Jolly Ithungu, Leah Asingya |
|
Jinja S.S. |
Sheila Namagoba, Leila Nalukenge, Asha MuKite, Elizabeth Aceng |
|
Mukono Kings |
Elizabeth Nakibuule, Resty Nakumansi, Jackline Nampaamu |
|
Sacred Heart S.S. |
Hanifa Noreen, Ritah Amono |
|
Olila High |
Ilora Joan, Divine Gabriella Nyamer |
|
Masaka S.S. |
Hasifa Naula, Given Nankabirwa |
|
Nyakasura |
Ket Kebirungi Aliganyira, Sharifah Kamugasha |
|
St. John’s S.S. Mukono |
Sonia Nampeera, Judith Nakasagaa |
|
St. Cornelius S.S. |
Lillian Nanyunja |
|
Light S.S. |
Sarah Tino |
|
Ndejje S.S. |
Blessing Noeline Apio, Praise Nalubega |
|
St. Theresa |
Mariam Kayesu |
|
St. James |
Jackline Lalam |
|
Iganga S.S. |
Prudence Lamara |
Looking Ahead
With the 2026 U19 Girls World Cup Qualifiers on the horizon, this camp represents a crucial early step in Uganda’s campaign to finally break through and qualify.
The foundations are in place: a blend of raw talent, improved structures, and a renewed commitment to preparation.
The success of this camp not only sets the stage for competitive success but also sends a strong message—Ugandan women’s cricket is building for a brighter, bolder future.