Uganda claims FISU rugby sevens silver

By Michael Ainomugisha
Uganda University Rugby Sevens team returned from an eight-year absence from the FISU
World University Championship with a historic silver medal after reaching the final for the first
time.
Uganda finished second at the 2026 championship in Stellenbosch, South Africa, after losing
34-7 to hosts South Africa in the gold medal final at Danie Craven Stadium on September 6.
The result marks a significant improvement from Uganda’s sixth-place finish at the 2018
championship and gives the university side its first appearance in a FISU final.
Uganda’s run to the final included a dramatic 15-14 semifinal victory over Argentina, where the
team held its nerve to book a place in the gold medal match against South Africa.
The silver medal caps an unbeaten run through the tournament and marks Uganda’s strongest
performance yet at the FISU World University Championship Rugby Sevens.
UCU Shepherds were central to the historic campaign, with Allan Karuhanga, Jones Kamiza
and Mark Lagat representing Uganda in the 12-man squad.
Karuhanga made a major contribution in the knockout stages, scoring two tries as Uganda
secured its place in the final. Kamiza also featured prominently, while Lagat provided an
attacking option on the wing.
UCU Shepherds head coach Leonard Lubambula was part of the technical team that guided
Uganda to the historic final, working alongside assistant coach Ivan Makmot.