Uganda Secures Key Executive Board Seat in UFAK Eastern Region Leadership Ahead of 2027 Elections

13/07/2026

In a major development for East African Karate administration, the Union of African Karate Federations (UFAK) has officially confirmed Uganda Karate Federation (UKF) President, Mr. Jamil Miiro, as a member of the newly ratified interim Executive Bureau for the Eastern Region.

The decision was formally validated during the UFAK Executive Committee meeting on July 3, 2026, following proposals submitted by member states during the Regional Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya.

Official UFAK Eastern Region Interim Executive Bureau

The appointed interim board will oversee regional tournament organization, referee development, and governance transition leading up to the official elective congress in 2027:

President: Dr. Emile Ratefinanahary (Madagascar)

Vice-President, Administration: Richard Ngichabe Binga (Kenya)

Vice-President, Finance: Muluneh Gossaye Mekonene (Ethiopia)

Executive Member: Ravin Hardowar (Mauritius)

Executive Member: Jamil Miiro (Uganda)

What This Governance Win Means for Ugandan Karate

Having direct representation on the continental regional board provides strategic advantages for Uganda’s growing martial arts ecosystem:

Direct Voice in Continental Decisions

Gives Uganda direct input on regional competition schedules, athlete pathways, and officiating standards aligned with the World Karate Federation (WKF).

Elevated Regional Prestige

Positions Uganda alongside top-tier regional leadership, boosting trust among international sponsors, sports authorities, and participating member nations.

Support for Bidding & Hosting Rights

Strengthens UKF’s administrative backing as the federation prepares to bid for major international events, including the 2027 UFAK Eastern Region Championships.

Jamil Miiro, President of the Uganda Karate Federation

"This ratification by UFAK reflects the growing administrative credibility of the Uganda Karate Federation on the continental stage. Having a seat at the executive table ensures that our athletes' interests, regional technical standards, and national hosting ambitions are fully prioritized as we move toward 2027."

— Jamil Miiro, President of the Uganda Karate Federation

Roadmap to the 2027 Elective Congress

The interim bureau, chaired by Dr. Emile Ratefinanahary of Madagascar, has been mandated by UFAK President Mr. Souleymane Gaye to manage all administrative and operational matters across the Eastern Region.

This governance structure remains in effect until the next full elective congress in 2027, when member nations will cast votes to establish a permanent Executive Bureau.