The Uganda Aquatics held its 2025 awards ceremony at the Copper Chimney Restaurant in Lugogo, recognizing outstanding achievements in the country’s aquatic sports. The event brought together swimmers, coaches, and officials, marking a milestone in the federation’s efforts to promote aquatic disciplines beyond swimming.

Gloria Anna Muzito and Jesse Ssubi Ssengonzi were named female and male swimmers of the year, respectively, for their exploits at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Muzito, who is Hungary-based, won two gold medals and a bronze at the competition.Other award winners included Tara Ann Mary Naluwoza Kisawuzi (junior female swimmer), Heer Usadadiya (junior male swimmer), Peter Ssebanakitta (best male masters’ swimmer), and Catherine Nakimuli (best female masters’ swimmer).

The awards also recognized excellence in open water swimming, water polo, and para swimming. Makerere University’s Ariyo Ahumuza and Altona’s Shaun Festo Kimbowa were named best senior and junior water polo players, respectively.Coaches and teams were also recognized, with Gators’ coach Muzafaru Muwanguzi named senior swimming and para swimming coach of the year. Gators, Makerere University, and British School of Kampala were named swimming, senior water polo, and junior water polo teams of the year, respectively.

The Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to veteran coaches Collins Wasswa Matovu, Abu Kigonya, Johnson Mutabi Ssalongo, and Peter Mugisha, as well as Uganda Olympic Committee President Donald Rukare.

Media personalities Michael Nsubuga from New Vision, Grace Kemigisa from Radio One, Marshall Miiro from UBC and Nation Media Group’s Makhtum Muziransa were also recognised.

Uganda Aquatics 2025 Awardees.

Paloma Kirabo-Junior open water girls

Swagiah Mubiru-Senior open water girls

Benjamin Lutaaya and Arthur Mwase-Male Open water

Shawn Kimbowa-Junior Waterpolo

Ariyo Ahumuza-Senior Waterpolo

Tara Kisawuzi-Junior swimming girls

Gloria Muzito-Senior swimming girls