Uganda's Nile Queens edged Kenya 29-28 in the Women's IHF Nations Trophy Africa Zone V final at the Filbert Bayi Multi Sports Centre in Kibaha, Tanzania on Sunday to reclaim the regional crown after a ten-year wait.
The victory reversed Uganda's earlier group-stage defeat to the same opponents and secured the last qualification slot for the 27th Women's Senior African Nations Handball Championship in Tunisia from December 2-12.
Joyce Namutosi scored the decisive goal as Uganda held on for a one-goal win under head coach Aziz Yukub and assistant Jemmy Remie Orotin.
Claire Tabingwa earned her second Player of the Match award of the tournament for another standout performance.
Uganda last won the Zone 5 title in 2016 when they hosted the competition, having previously featured at the continental championship in 1974, 1976 and 1979.
The Queens have been drawn in Group C alongside hosts Tunisia, Cameroon and Zambia for the African championship.
Kenya settled for silver while Rwanda claimed bronze after narrowly beating hosts Tanzania 32-31.
Sunday's triumph marks a significant step in restoring Uganda's presence on the continental handball stage.
Key details from the tournament:
- Final: Uganda 29-28 Kenya
- Bronze match: Rwanda 32-31 Tanzania
- Uganda's previous Zone V title: 2016
- African Championship dates: December 2-12, 2026 in Tunisia
- Uganda's group: Group C (Tunisia, Cameroon, Zambia)
- Uganda's continental appearances: 1974, 1976, 1979, 2026
Source: Kawowo Sports
