The 38th edition of the Uganda Muslim Education Association (UMEA) Solidarity Games has successfully concluded at Mbale City Stadium, with Gombe Secondary School emerging as the overall winner across multiple disciplines.
The four-day tournament, hosted by Nkoma Secondary School in Mbale City, attracted over 121 teams from across the country, competing in a wide range of sports including football, volleyball, handball, netball, badminton, table tennis, and mind games such as chess and scrabble.
Gombe SS successfully defended their title, improving on their 2025 performance in Kayunga. While they secured four trophies last year, the school walked away with five trophies this year.
Gombe SS clinched trophies in handball for both boys and girls, scrabble for boys and girls, and chess for girls, securing the highest number of gold medals to take the overall title.
Speaking after the victory, Haji Ggingo Ahmed Ssekitto, the deputy head teacher, praised the learners for their discipline, resilience, and teamwork, noting that their commitment had paid off.
“We thank the learners for their discipline and commitment. They have shown great resilience and team spirit. Last year in Kayunga, we won four trophies, but this year, we have improved to five trophies,” he said.
Chairperson of the UMEA National Organizing Committee 2026, Hussein Kyagulanyi, described the tournament as a success, citing strong participation and vibrant support from spectators.
“We have had a very good tournament with over 121 teams and great audiences. It has been a beautiful event, and we thank the people of Mbale for their hospitality,” he said.
The games were graced by Dr. Prince Kassim Nakibinge as the chief guest. Organisers also confirmed that the next edition of the games will be hosted by Kaddugala Secondary School in Masaka District.
In the football boys’ category, Kyadondo Secondary School emerged champions defeating the defending champions, Masaka SS 1-0 in the final. The headmaster, Haji Warigo Ismail, expressed pride in the team’s achievement.
“This victory has been hard-earned. We have previously been knocked out by strong teams like Masaka SS and Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, but this time we overcame them all, including Kibuli SS and Buziga Islamic, to win the trophy,” he said.
He added that defeating defending champions Masaka Secondary School in the finals was a significant milestone for the team.
Organisers revealed plans to expand the competition in future editions, with the introduction of rugby sevens, basketball, and additional disciplines aimed at enhancing student participation and talent development.
The 2026 UMEA Solidarity Games not only showcased sporting excellence but also strengthened unity and collaboration among Muslim-founded schools across Uganda.
Story by Aron Okotel