The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | December 30th, 2023 will mark three years since the former bomber’s captain Isaac Ssenyange alias Zebra Mando was gunned down by officers under the Joint Ant-Terrorism Task Force (JATT). Zebra met his death on December 30, 2020, outside his residence in St. Francis Zone, Bwaise III Parish, Kawempe division.
He was killed when a group of operatives under the Joint Ant-Terrorism Task Force (JATT) driving in three Toyota Hiace vehicles commonly known as drones raided his home around midnight in an attempt to pick him up but he tried to escape. Initially, it was suspected that the former boxer had been gunned down by thugs but the president later confirmed that indeed it was government operatives who had killed him following a misunderstanding.
Now, three years on, the legacy of Zebra is at risk, with the boxing academy he left behind facing challenges that threaten its existence. The facility, intended to be a modern boxing hub accommodating over 500 boxers has stalled at the foundation level with muddy surroundings and a flooded structure that portrays a bleak picture of what was once a promising boxing academy.
In an interview with URN last year, Zebra’s widow, Mercy Mukankusi noted that despite repeated promises from different people including the government, no support has been rendered towards the completion of the boxing academy. It is from this background that the academy leaders, together with Zebra’s son, Isaac Ssenyange Junior decided to partner with Big Bang Promotions to organize a professional fight dubbed the Mando Memorial Fight Night to act as a fundraising starter.
According to Isaac Ssenyange, it is regrettable that all that the late Zebra had started stalled. He does, however, brag about the exploits of their boxers, some of whom have emerged as continental champions despite the gym’s meager finances and lack of facilities. He believes that with a well-built gym and the proper facilities, the club can rehabilitate its image and produce world-class boxers, which will accomplish Zebra’s ambitions.
The fight night is set for Friday, December 29th at the Lugogo Hockey Grounds, with various seasoned and upcoming pugilists anticipated to compete in the more than eight bouts.
Entrance will be 10,000 Shillings for ordinary and 30,000 for VIP. Among the many boxers are Douglas Kalule, Ssali Ezra, Isaac Ssenyange, Rogers Semitala, John Nsamba, Nicholas Tomusange, Jeremiah Sserwadda, Kaye Isma, and Alex Mwesigwa.
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