Uganda Renews Talks with NBA Africa to Establish Junior League

LCC TV NEWS

KIGALI, July 27, 2026 — Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has held talks with NBA Africa CEO Claire Akamanzi in Kigali to advance plans for basketball development in Uganda, following initial discussions held in the country in March .

The meeting centered on a proposal to partner with Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports to establish a Junior NBA League targeting secondary schools. The initiative aims to introduce structured basketball competitions while instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic in young athletes .

According to a statement from the Office of the Chief of Defence Forces, the discussions align with NBA Africa’s broader continental strategy of partnering with governments and the private sector to develop sports infrastructure and unlock economic opportunities. Beyond grassroots development, areas of cooperation explored include investment in digital services, hospitality, tourism, and creative industries, sectors that benefit from a thriving sports ecosystem .

"These talks form part of NBA Africa's broader strategy of partnering with African governments and the private sector to develop sports infrastructure and unlock economic opportunities linked to basketball," the CDF's office stated .

Uganda has already established a presence in continental basketball, with domestic clubs City Oilers and Namuwongo Blazers having competed in the NBA-affiliated Basketball Africa League (BAL) . The Namuwongo Blazers recently captured their maiden National Basketball League title, ending City Oilers' decade-long dominance .

The renewed engagement comes ahead of expanded NBA coverage in Uganda, with UBC and NBS Television expected to begin broadcasting NBA games from September. Officials believe combining increased television exposure with grassroots initiatives such as the proposed Junior NBA League could build a stronger talent pipeline and enhance Uganda's competitiveness in African basketball .

The discussions in Kigali build on NBA Africa's regional momentum, including separate negotiations with the Kenyan government to fast-track the development of a world-class multi-purpose basketball arena .

Gen. Kainerugaba, known for his passion for basketball, has previously described the sport's potential to transform youth development in Uganda, welcoming NBA Africa's collaboration in professionalizing the game .