Godfrey Chanwengo eyes glory as Uganda sends strong athletics team to Riyadh

As the countdown begins for the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Ugandan sprinter Godfrey Chanwengo is aiming for more than just participation, he’s chasing a breakthrough performance in the 400m and 4x400m Mixed Relay.

The 26-year-old speedster, who boasts a personal best of 46.54 seconds, is a key figure in Uganda’s 17-member athletics squad. The team is packed with elite talent and medal contenders, ready to make a statement on the international stage.

Scheduled from November 7th to 21st, 2025, the Games will host track and field events at the state-of-the-art Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium. For Chanwengo, it’s a golden opportunity to deliver a career-defining performance alongside some of Uganda’s finest athletes.

Leading the team is 800m World Champion Halima Nakaayi, a proven force both globally and at these Games. She is expected to be a major contender in her signature event and a key asset in the 4x400m Mixed Relay.

Also vital to Uganda’s medal hopes is 400m specialist Shida Leni, whose explosive speed will be crucial in both her individual race and the relay. The team’s endurance strength is anchored by long-distance runners Abel Chebet and Rebecca Chelengat in the 10,000m, and Knight Aciru in the 1500m. In the field events, Josephine Joyce Lalam adds further medal potential in the javelin throw.

This well-rounded blend of sprinters, middle-distance runners, and field athletes positions Uganda for a strong multi-medal campaign.

Chanwengo, meanwhile, is laser-focused on refining his technique to match his ambition. “To improve my personal best of 46.54 seconds, my coach and I are focusing on the first 100m curve and managing fatigue in the final 120m,” he shared after a demanding training session. “Mastering the curve will shave off precious seconds, while building endurance ensures I finish strong.”

The drive to win is deeply personal. “Uganda’s track history at the Islamic Solidarity Games inspires me to forge my own legacy,” Chanwengo said. “Winning medals would not only elevate my career but also pave the way for future generations of Ugandan sprinters.”

He added, “The prospect of putting Uganda’s name in the history books is a powerful motivator. It pushes me to train harder and strive for excellence every day.”

Despite facing fierce competition from 57 member states, Chanwengo remains unfazed. “While it’s important to understand the strengths of other 400m athletes, my main focus is on achieving my personal best,” he affirmed.

With a mix of seasoned champions and rising stars, Team Uganda heads to Riyadh with confidence, unity, and a shared goal: to deliver their best-ever performance on the Islamic Solidarity Games stage.