She Cranes star Shadia Nasanga has been named the Fortebet Real Star Sports Personality of the Month for September, capping a remarkable month that saw her play a leading role in Uganda’s success on the continental stage.
Nasanga was recognised for her outstanding performances with the national netball team, who on Thursday morning were crowned African Netball Champions in Nairobi, Kenya.
The award came after a strong month for the talented player, whose consistency and ability to perform under pressure earned her the admiration of fans and fellow players.
Nasanga was among the nominees for the September award alongside Margaret Bagala and Christine Namuyomba Kango, but her performances ultimately earned her the monthly accolade.
Speaking after receiving the award, Nasanga was quick to credit the people who have supported her throughout her career, insisting that her success has been a collective effort.
“I don’t think I achieved this alone. It has been a long journey, and I owe a lot to my teammates, my coaches and my mentor,” Nasanga said.
She also expressed appreciation to the wider netball fraternity and the Ugandan supporters who travelled to Kenya to rally behind the She Cranes.
“I would also like to thank the entire netball fraternity, as well as the fans who travelled from Uganda to Kenya to cheer us on. Your support means a lot to us,” she added.
Nasanga’s award comes at the end of a month in which she consistently delivered when Uganda needed her most.
Her performances helped her secure the Most Valuable Player award, further underlining her influence during the She Cranes’ championship-winning campaign.
The Fortebet Real Stars organisers highlighted her consistency, noting that Nasanga continued to produce when the pressure was highest.
“Shafia Nasanga has consistently delivered. Whenever the pressure has been on, she has continued to perform and make her case. Her outstanding performances helped her earn the MVP award, and today we are delighted to recognise her achievement,” the organisers said.
For Nasanga, the latest recognition is another motivation to keep pushing for greater success.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and for the recognition you have given me once again. It shows me that hard work really does pay off,” she said.
“This motivates me to keep working hard so that I can achieve even more and hopefully win more awards in the future.”
With the She Cranes now celebrating their continental crown, Nasanga’s recognition adds another individual highlight to what has been a memorable period for Ugandan netball.
Her September award reflects not only her personal contribution but also the growing strength of Uganda’s national team as it continues to make its mark on the African netball scene.
