In a fitting tribute to the legendary rally driver, Charles Muhangi was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement accolade at the Fortebet Real Stars Sports Monthly Awards for September 2024. This award recognizes his lasting impact on Ugandan motorsports, as he remains the only Ugandan to have won the prestigious Africa Rally Championship title, a feat he achieved in 1999 and that remains unbeaten to this day.

Petience Muhangi, his widow, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the family during a ceremony held at Lazo Restaurant, Kololo, on October 8, 2024. This recognition serves as a lasting testament to Muhangi’s contributions to rallying in Uganda and beyond.

Rising Stars in Ugandan Sports: September 2024 Award Winners

Football: Herbert Assimwe Shines in the Uganda Premier League

Herbert Assimwe, a rising football star dubbed “Camavinga,” secured the Footballer of the Month award for September. The youthful forward, representing Wakiso Giants in the Startimes Uganda Premier League, was instrumental in his team’s success, scoring in every game he played that month.

His outstanding performance saw him find the net against Mbale Heroes, Brightstars, and Maroons, where he bagged a brace. He also contributed two more goals for Buwekula in the Airtel Masaza Cup. His contributions outshone fellow nominees Said Mayanja of KCCA FC and Enock Ssebagala of NEC FC.

In his acceptance speech, Assimwe praised his teammates, stating, “Everyone dreams of being nominated, but it’s not easy. For me, it’s a pleasure to be here. This award is a result of teamwork at Wakiso Giants, and I dedicate it to the Purple Sharks family.”

Boxing: Herbert Matovu Claims Boxing Title with Knockout Victory

In the boxing category, Herbert Matovu was awarded the Boxer of the Month for September, following his impressive knockout win against Tanzania’s Kheri Mbaruku in the Africa Boxing Union (ABU) regional title bout. The fight, held at YMCA on September 7, 2024, was part of the Sweet Science Fights organized by Nara Promotion, and Matovu delivered a first-round knockout to claim victory.

Matovu’s win placed him ahead of fierce competition, including top Uganda Boxing Champions League performers Ukasha Matovu and Owen Kibira.

Woodball: Isaac Ariho Leads Uganda Prisons to League Triumph

The Woodball category saw Isaac Ariho emerge as the top performer of September, guiding Uganda Prisons to their third consecutive Woodball League trophy. Ariho, a key player, lost only one out of seven games in September. He started strong by defeating Fred Turyakira of Prisons 7-0 at their home ground in Luzira and ended the month with two decisive wins against Simon Peter Otim of Stroke and Delick Ankunda of Ndejje at the final event held at Makerere University.

Ariho also partnered with Abednego Okello to overcome the KIU duo of Bruno Ssekidde and Timothy Suuna, as well as teaming up with Isaac Nabugere to defeat KU’s Matthias Wahala and Raphael Kanabahirwa in another doubles match.

Fortebet Real Stars Awards Continue to Spotlight Ugandan Sporting Excellence

The Fortebet Real Stars Sports Monthly Awards continue to celebrate the achievements of Uganda’s top athletes across a variety of sports disciplines, honoring both emerging talents and legendary figures like Charles Muhangi. As the nation’s sports scene evolves, these awards provide a platform for recognizing the dedication and success of individuals who have made significant contributions to Ugandan sports.