Uganda claimed the Women’s IHF Nations Trophy – Africa Zone V title after edging Kenya 29–28 in a dramatic final in Tanzania. Joyce Namutosi scored the decisive goal with just 74 seconds remaining, securing Uganda’s first regional title since 2016.
The Nile Queens are back on top of East African handball. Uganda defeated Kenya 29–28 in Sunday’s final at the Filbert Bayi Multi Sports Centre in Kibaha, Tanzania, ending a ten-year wait for the Zone V crown.
The victory was particularly sweet after Kenya had beaten Uganda 30–27 in the group stage. This time, neither side managed to establish a decisive advantage in a closely contested final.
Uganda led 13–12 at half-time and moved three goals clear in the second half. Kenya fought back, however, and even took a 27–26 lead with just over three minutes remaining.
Diana Nakamya responded with two goals in 16 seconds to put Uganda back in front. Kenya’s Martha Lavender Muyekho equalised at 28–28, but Joyce Namutosi had the final word, scoring the winner with 74 seconds left.
Namutosi and Muyekho both finished with seven goals, while Nakamya and Tiane Nakirya added five each for Uganda.
The triumph also secures Uganda a place at the 2026 African Women’s Handball Championship in Tunisia, scheduled for 2–12 December. Rwanda claimed bronze after beating hosts Tanzania 32–31.