Mandela Group of Companies has recognised Simon Mugabi – the Uganda Badminton Association (UBA), affectionately known as Coach, for his exemplary contribution to sports development in Uganda, particularly badminton.
The award celebrates Mugabi’s professionalism, integrity, and dedication to nurturing talent at all levels, from grassroots to international competitions.
‘Mandela Group honoured me for the seven years I have spent organising the City Tyres East African Badminton Tournament at high standards and exhibiting professionalism,’ Mugabi said. ‘I thank the Mandela Group, led by GM Venkatesh Kumar, for trusting me to deliver. I vow my loyalty and accountability as we continue to uplift sports in Uganda.’
Mugabi’s journey in badminton began in 1976 as a player, followed by coaching in 1986, and later ascending to UBA CEO in 2003. Under his leadership, Uganda has staged numerous high-profile tournaments, including the National Badminton Championships and the City Tyres EA Challenge, and has also promoted para-badminton, giving opportunities to physically handicapped players at the international level – both teams and players winning several medals in due course.
High-level Integrity
Herbert Bashasha, Marketing Manager at Mandela Group, praised Mugabi’s impact: ‘Simon is not only a distinguished and decorated badminton player but also a good administrator with high-level integrity and organisational skills, which has led to the growth of the game in the country.’
Mugabi’s career has taken him across continents, attending African Games, World Championships, Commonwealth Games and Olympics, cementing his legacy. He remains a mentor to young athletes across multiple sports, encouraging passion, discipline, hard work, and determination.
‘Badminton is my major sport, but I am passionate about soccer, athletics, table tennis, squash, and Taekwondo. I want to be remembered as a man who brought the game to the limelight, including para-badminton,’ Mugabi added.
Talking Points
Legacy Builder
Grassroots Hero. Mugabi’s administration elevated Uganda’s badminton profile locally and internationally. Mentor to youth and para-athletes, spreading sports access beyond mainstream players.
AT A GLANCE
Full Name: Simon Mugabi
Nicknames: Coach
Year of Birth: June 17, 1964
Age: 61 years old
Nationality: Ugandan
Clubs Played For: St Jude Jinja, Jinja SS, UCB and Kampala Club
Coaching and Managerial Career: From 1986 up to now (actively involved)
Other Sports: Soccer, Athletics, Squash, Taekwondo and Table Tennis
Administration Roles: Technical Director (1991-2003) and CEO (2003 to-date)
Awards:Nile Special USPA Legendary Award: Simon Mugabi (2018), Mandela Group Excellence Recognition (2025)
Motto / Philosophy: I eat badminton, I sleep badminton
Advice to Young Players: Be passionate, disciplined, hard workers and determined.
Legacy Statement: I want to be remembered as the man who got the game to the limelight including para-badminton.