In a stunning debut, 18-year-old light welterweight Joshua Mwenda clinched Uganda’s only gold medal at the Africa Youth Boxing Championship in Conakry, Guinea, held from May 16 to 26, 2025. Speaking to Vision Sport, the Senior Five student from Bweyogerere SS described the victory as a dream come true. “I give all the glory to God. I had dreamt of this moment, but I never imagined it would happen during my debut for the national team,” Mwenda said.
Mwenda, the sole Ugandan representative among boxers from over 20 countries, credited his success to his supporters, including Sparks Boxing Club, the Uganda Boxing Federation, Multi Sports Centre, and Inspired Brands Promotions. Accompanied by coach Herbert Skills Kalungi and UPDF referee Moses Mugaga, Mwenda showcased his prowess with second-round technical knockouts against South Africa’s Vumazonke Indiphile in the quarter-finals and Libya’s Mohammed Kesher in the semi-finals. In the final, he dominated Guinea’s Mamadou Diallo, securing a unanimous victory after two knockdowns, earning a standing ovation from the home crowd.
Coach Kalungi attributed Mwenda’s success to his electric talent and rigorous preparation, facilitated by early camping supported by sponsors. Uganda Boxing Federation president Moses Muhangi hailed Mwenda as a testament to the country’s enduring boxing talent, crediting the National Boxing Champions League for nurturing his potential.
Mwenda’s gold marks Uganda’s first continental boxing title since Muzamir Kakande’s 2017 African Boxing Championships victory, signaling a bright future for the young star.
Wow, what an incredible achievement for Joshua Mwenda! It’s inspiring to see such a young talent rise to the occasion and bring home Uganda’s only gold medal. His dedication and hard work truly paid off, and it’s heartwarming to hear him give credit to his supporters and faith. The fact that he dominated his opponents with such skill, especially in his debut, speaks volumes about his potential. Coach Kalungi and the Uganda Boxing Federation must be so proud of this milestone. It’s exciting to think about what the future holds for Mwenda and Ugandan boxing as a whole. Do you think this victory will inspire more young athletes in Uganda to pursue boxing?