Table tennis players call for more investment in the game

Jinja, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | A section of veteran table tennis players is calling for increased investment in the sport from both the government and private sector. They emphasize the need for greater focus on developing table tennis across the country, highlighting its potential for job creation and talent development.

At this year’s third edition of the Mutaz Open, held at Holy Cross Lakeview in Jinja City, players voiced their concerns. Cyrus Muwanga, a former table tennis player and gold medalist at the All-Africa Games, underscored the need for more funding to popularize the sport in schools.

Muwanga, who single-handedly sponsored this year’s Mutaz Open, believes that such championships are crucial for talent scouting and professional development. Muwanga also urged the government to organize more related championships nationwide. He argued that these events would allow existing players to receive mentorship from experienced professionals.

Paul Mutambuze, a former Olympian who represented Uganda in 1996, noted that table tennis requires minimal space and should be prioritized in communities with limited facilities. He believes that with consistent effort, the sport can produce future Olympians capable of winning medals for Uganda. Mutambuze, who initiated the Mutaz Open, highlighted the event’s role in providing opportunities for players from various regions, including Western Uganda, Northern Uganda, and the Far East.

This year’s tournament also featured 14 participants from Kenya’s major table tennis clubs in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Mombasa. Despite the high cost of table tennis equipment, Mutambuze remains hopeful that partnerships between the government and private sector can help promote the sport more widely. The 2024 Mutaz Open attracted 150 participants from schools, universities, corporate entities, and private individuals.

Notably, Nabitende Table Tennis Kids (TTK) from Iganga district excelled, with Judith Mirembe and Judith Kirabira dominating the women’s categories, and Emmanuel Muwanguzi and Edwin Magala leading in the U13 boys’ category. In the men’s singles, Jonathan Ssenyonga emerged victorious, defeating Benjamin Acema with a score of 3-2.singles.

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