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Private Erina Namutebi, one of two Ugandan international boxers in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) team, is determined to secure her first gold medal at the Second African Military Games in Abuja, Nigeria, taking place from November 18 to 30, 2024.
A seasoned fighter with two international silver medals, Namutebi is eager to convert her close calls into a historic win.
“I have enough international experience now to win gold and proudly hold up the flag of my country,” she said confidently.
Namutebi joined the UPDF in 2021 and quickly rose to prominence on the international stage. She made her debut in Yaoundé, Cameroon, delivering an impressive performance by reaching the finals of the Africa Boxing Championships.
In the final, she faced Algeria’s world bronze medallist Ichrak Chaib, but lost via a second-round stoppage, earning a silver medal.
During the tournament, Namutebi displayed her prowess by defeating Mozambique’s Isabel Mulango in just over a minute in the semi-finals. Reflecting on her success, she said, “Most boxers don’t bring back medals on their first international trip, but with God’s grace, I did, and it remains a memorable achievement for me and my country.”
Earlier this year, Namutebi showcased her skills again at the Mandela African Boxing Cup Championships in Durban, South Africa. She advanced to the finals but was forced to withdraw due to an injury, leaving the gold to DR Congo’s Merveille Mbalanya.
With two silver medals to her name, Namutebi is seen as a strong contender for the light-welterweight gold in Abuja. Her determination and growing experience have made her a fan favorite and a beacon of hope for Uganda.
The UPDF team, coached by Tony Ssekabira and assisted by Mike Ssekabembe, comprises seven boxers (five men and two women).
Namutebi is joined by another international, Innocent Amoko, who represented Uganda at the African Games in Ghana earlier this year.
It should be noted that Ssekabembe, a former Ugandan boxing legend, was the country’s sole finalist at the inaugural African Military Games in Nairobi in 2002, where Uganda earned one silver and four bronze medals.
As the team sets its sights on victory in Abuja, Namutebi’s quest for gold is a testament to her resilience, skill, and unyielding determination to bring glory to Uganda and the UPDF.
Source:Wellness