Uganda’s Bodybuilders Face Financial Struggles Ahead of 2025 World Championship in Spain

[Bodybuilding News]

Uganda’s National Bodybuilding Team Battles Funding Crisis Before World Stage Appearance​

Uganda’s national bodybuilding team, composed of elite competitors and veteran figures, is on the verge of missing the 2025 World Bodybuilding Championship in Salou, Spain due to a dire financial shortfall. With the championship scheduled from June 13th to June 15th at the Salou Auditorium Theatre, the seven-member delegation—comprising five athletes and two officials—has completed all necessary documentation, including visa acquisition. However, they remain grounded in Uganda, unable to afford airfare, lodging, and allowances.


This clip showcases the intensity of national-level bodybuilding competitions in Uganda—offering valuable visual context on the dedication, physiques, and competitive atmosphere that define these athletes. Although it doesn’t cover the current funding crisis, it powerfully conveys the passion and discipline underpinning Uganda’s bodybuilding community.

The Athletes Representing Uganda​

The team, handpicked for its talent and experience, includes:

• Safaru Tamale – decorated veteran with numerous domestic titles
• Godfrey Lubega – medalist with international exposure
• Simon Mbazira, Dan Mwesigwa, and Isaac Hilly – rising stars in Men’s Bodybuilding and Physique
• Denis Kisakye Trinity – team coach
• Brian Kafuko – team manager

These athletes have trained tirelessly, covering personal training expenses with no substantial external support. Their readiness to compete contrasts sharply with the logistical hurdles caused by the lack of financial backing from Uganda's National Council of Sports (NCS).

History of Uganda’s Success in Bodybuilding​

Uganda has previously celebrated international bodybuilding triumphs, most notably:

• Ivan Byekwaso – multiple-time world champion in natural bodybuilding
• Mubarak Kizito – a fierce competitor with a proven track record on global stages

These athletes have laid the groundwork and inspired the new generation. The current team aims to follow in their footsteps, but national support has fallen drastically short.

Lack of Government Support Threatens Uganda’s Global Representation​

Despite prior commitments and verbal assurances, the Ugandan government—specifically the NCS—has failed to deliver the required funds for travel and accommodation. One athlete expressed frustration:

“Government is supposed to support national teams, but the athletes are suffering and yet training is very expensive.”

The silence from authorities has further intensified uncertainty. The bodybuilding community in Uganda now finds itself relying on last-minute intervention or private sponsorships.

Urgency to Act Before the Championship Deadline​

With days left until the competition in Salou, Spain, the urgency is clear. The athletes have visas, are competition-ready, and have earned their place on the world stage. All that remains is financial facilitation.

Why Uganda’s Participation Matters Globally​

Uganda’s presence at the 2025 World Bodybuilding Championship is not only a matter of national pride—it’s an affirmation of the country’s growing status in the global fitness and bodybuilding community. Denying this team the opportunity to compete on such a stage undermines years of grassroots development in the sport.

How Sponsors and the Public Can Help​

Immediate support is required. Whether through private sponsorships, sports associations, or crowdfunding efforts, stakeholders in fitness, health, and national pride must step forward. The bodybuilding team’s plight is symbolic of a broader issue—athletic excellence being stifled by bureaucratic inertia and lack of strategic investment.

We encourage potential sponsors to contact the Uganda Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (UBFA) directly for contribution details.