On June 16, 2025, the World Bridge Federation officially welcomed Uganda as a member. This event marks a new chapter for Uganda within the global bridge community and in Zone 8, the African Zonal Conference of the WBF.
The WBF is structured into eight zonal regions, aligning with the five continents recognized by the Olympic movement. Zone 8, also known as the African Bridge Federation, has been operating since 2000. It oversees bridgling activities across Africa in coordination with national federations .
The Uganda Bridge Federation (UBF) manages bridge activities in Uganda. It is active through its official website, which lists nearly 500 registered players, including youth and adults. The federation offers various learning opportunities, including adult and youth bridge programs, and hosts regular tournaments. It also maintains an online presence through its main website and social media channels:
Instagram: @UgandaBridge
Twitter (X): x.com/UgandaBridge1
Website: www.ugandabridgefederation.org
Uganda’s entry into the WBF positions its bridge community on the international stage. This development will allow the UBF to:
This recognition supports Uganda’s bridge growth and offers its players opportunities for global competition and exchange.
With WBF membership, Uganda can expect to engage fully in Zone 8 initiatives. These include participation in African continental events, youth bridge programs, and possibly hosting international events. The move offers new support in areas such as coaching, referee training, and grassroots development.
The Uganda Bridge Federation conducted a bridge teaching session at Masaka Secondary School in Masaka District. Masaka Secondary School, founded in 1954 and serving over 3,700 students, operates as both a day and boarding institution under the Uganda Ministry of Education & Sports. The session focused on the youth and children, with organizers stating that when given the opportunity to teach, they act swiftly.
Bridge was introduced not only to students but also to sports teachers at Masaka. The federation reported that the game was part of the 2024 UMEA Solidarity Games, hosted at the same school. The expressed goal is to introduce hundreds of young people across education institutions to bridge.
As part of the Eastern Africa Universities Women Championship 2025 held at Makerere University, the Uganda Bridge Federation organized a bridge demonstration competition. The event showcased bridge as a mindsport and aimed to raise awareness among university-level women players.
The final round of the National Bridge League 2025 recently took place, featuring Uganda’s top bridge players. The federation encouraged fans around Kampala to attend and watch the competition firsthand.
A bridge competition is currently ongoing at St John Vianney Secondary School, indicating that bridge activities are expanding to additional institutions within Uganda.
These activities align with the Uganda Bridge Federation’s goal to spread the strategic card game of bridge among youth. Regular events include teaching sessions, demonstration competitions, school league finals, and ongoing school contests. Each initiative aims to reach hundreds of students annually.
Uganda’s membership in the World Bridge Federation is an important step for the country’s bridge community. It opens the door to international competitions, training programs, and stronger ties with other bridge players around the world. With more support and recognition, the Uganda Bridge Federation can continue to grow the game in schools and communities, helping more people—especially young players—learn and enjoy bridge. This is a positive development for bridge in Uganda and across Africa.
