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The Unseen Architect of Uganda’s Netball Legacy
Uganda has carved a prominent place for itself in the global netball landscape, currently ranked seventh worldwide and second in Africa after South Africa. The She Cranes, as the national team is affectionately known, have become a symbol of resilience, pride, and athletic excellence. Yet behind this success lies a lesser-known story—one that centers around a remarkable individual who played a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s netball journey.
Her name is Mary Ben Muwanga, a retired school teacher who now lives a modest life in Kabowa, a quiet suburb on the outskirts of Kampala. While she may not be a household name or a public figure, her contributions to Ugandan netball are immeasurable. Without her, the nation’s rise to prominence in the sport might never have happened.
A Teacher with a Vision
Long before Uganda’s netball team began making headlines, Muwanga was already laying the groundwork. She wasn’t a celebrity or a politician—just a dedicated teacher with a whistle around her neck and an unshakable passion for the game. Her journey began in the 1960s when she first fell in love with netball. By 1964, she had joined the national team, and by 1975, she became head coach of the She Cranes—a role she would hold for a decade during some of Uganda’s most challenging times.
Muwanga’s coaching style was rooted in mentorship and long-term vision. She believed in building systems that would endure beyond her own tenure. Her influence extended far beyond the court, shaping not only players but also future coaches. Many of Uganda’s top netball coaches today, including former She Cranes coach Fred Mugerwa, were her protégés. Her legacy is evident in the continued success of the national team.
Breaking Barriers and Building a Foundation
One of Muwanga’s earliest decisions was to address a critical weakness in the team: a lack of height in key positions. To counter this, she actively recruited taller players such as Margaret Bisereko, Ida Musoke, and Lucy Musoke. These additions significantly strengthened the team and helped establish Uganda as a formidable force in regional competitions.
Her strategic moves paid off. In 1975, under her leadership, Uganda won the CECAFA Netball Championship in Zanzibar, defeating regional powerhouses and ending Kenya’s dominance. This victory marked a turning point, signaling Uganda’s emergence as a serious contender in African netball.
By 1976, the team had grown even stronger, prompting Kenya to petition organizers to ban Ida Musoke, claiming she gave Uganda an unfair advantage. However, it was too late—the She Cranes had already made their mark.
The Road to Trinidad
The 1979 Netball World Cup in Trinidad and Tobago stands as one of the most defining moments in Ugandan netball history. It was a moment of both immense pride and overwhelming pressure. With Kenya withdrawing from the tournament, Uganda found itself representing Africa on the global stage.
The preparation was chaotic. Muwanga had only weeks to assemble a team, and at one point, she could only find three players. Desperate, she turned to the national broadcaster, issuing a public call for any available netball players. Slowly, they came—20 players in total, many of whom had never played internationally.
The challenges were immense. The team trained with just three balls, and their uniforms were borrowed from the Bank of Uganda. Muwanga spent the flight to Trinidad cutting and sewing the skirts to make them wearable. Despite the odds, the She Cranes arrived ready to compete.
Their debut was nothing short of inspiring. Though they finished 13th out of 19 teams, they earned respect by beating Canada and Saint Kitts and Nevis. More importantly, they proved that Uganda belonged on the global stage.
A New Era for Ugandan Netball
In the decades that followed, Ugandan netball faced its share of challenges. Economic changes in the 1990s led to the decline of corporate sponsorship, and funding became scarce. Players often traveled on empty stomachs, sacrificing everything for the chance to represent their country.
However, the tide began to turn in recent years. Ugandan netball has experienced a resurgence, with increased popularity, better infrastructure, and more investment. Schools like Gombe SS and St Mary’s Kitende are now producing the next generation of stars. The government and development partners are playing a more active role, supporting coaching clinics, youth programs, and facility improvements.
Even men have entered the scene, with the Rock, Uganda’s men’s national netball team, breaking gender barriers and showcasing skill and flair.
The Enduring Legacy
Despite no longer being on the sidelines, Muwanga’s influence continues to shape the sport. From her home in Kabowa, she watches as the flame she lit decades ago burns brightly across stadiums and schoolyards. The She Cranes—her girls, her legacy—are soaring, and her spirit remains a guiding force.
Mary Ben Muwanga may not have sought the spotlight, but her impact on Ugandan netball is undeniable. She was the quiet force behind a national movement, the teacher who turned underdogs into believers, and the woman who helped Uganda claim its place on the world stage.
