The She Cranes beat South Africa 56-53 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Saturday to win the Africa Netball Championship 2026 and secure a World Cup place.
Shadia Nassanga was named Most Valuable Player and Best Shooter after averaging 32.2 goals per game.
The gold medal ended a personal run of silver medals stretching back to high school for the Wakiso-born shooter.
"I had a discussion with my teammates and we talked about being champions and nothing else," Nassanga said.
A 12-day residential camp at Allen VR Staleny School in Nakilebe sharpened defence and mid-court structure under coach Rashid Mubiru and assistant Ruth Meeme.
"Going by how we prepared, it was clear we were favourites and we lived up to the billing," she added.
Christine Namulumba filled the goal shooter role after Mary Nuba stayed in England, while Sheila Nabanja and Evelyn Ayitesi impressed in defence.
Nassanga first picked up a ball on a village court in Wakiso after following her sister Hajara Ssegujja there.
Coach Richard Ssentongo switched her to goal attack at Exodus Secondary School and predicted she would play for Uganda.
The argument doing the rounds in Kampala is whether Nassanga's MVP performance makes her the most valuable player in She Cranes history.
Key facts from the final:
- Result: Uganda 56-53 South Africa
- Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Venue: Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Nairobi
- Uganda MVP: Shadia Nassanga
- Nassanga awards: MVP, Best Shooter, leading scorer (32.2 goals per game)
- World Cup qualification: Secured
- Semi-final scoreline: Uganda 44-41 (opponent not named in source)
- Preparation: 12-day camp at Allen VR Staleny School, Nakilebe
- Coaching team: Rashid Mubiru (head), Ruth Meeme (assistant)
Watch the Highlights
Source: Uganda Observer
