Explore every episode of the podcast Fat Cats Rugby Podcast

In this episode of the Fat Cats Podcast, we sit down with Tolbert Onyango, the former Uganda 7s head coach, to unpack his journey through rugby, leadership, and life.

Tolbert opens up about why he stepped down as Uganda 7s coach, the players who challenged him the most, and what it truly takes to build winning teams both on and off the field. From the highs of competition to the lessons learned through adversity, this conversation dives deep into the mindset, discipline, and vision behind success.

As we wrap up an unforgettable 2025 Rugby Africa Cup tournament! Dexter is joined by passionate Zimbabwe supporter Hector Onai and Uganda rugby fan and member of the tournament's organizing committee - Darren Rutagwera.

The trio reflects on the tournament, diving into the journeys of the Zimbabwe Sables and the Uganda Rugby Cranes. What lies ahead for these proud rugby nations?

#Uganda #Zimbabwe #rugby #africa #africacup #rugbytournament #podcast #worldrugby #worldcup

It’s always a privilege to sit down with the key figures shaping the future of rugby. In our second conversation with Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah, we explore the evolving journey of African rugby, the upcoming 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, and what lies ahead for the continent’s place on the global stage.

#uganda #rugbytournament #worldrugby #rugbyworldcup #rugbyafrica #africa #rugby

As a follow-up to last week's conversation with Jonan Manzi and Ian Kiryowa, we spoke with the other side—hosting elected Hippos Rugby chairman Joshua Wakabi—as we continue to unravel what exactly is happening in Jinja with a club brimming with potential.

#Uganda #rugby #jinja #jinjahippos #hipposrugby #rugbyunion #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #Ugandarugby

The Jinja Hippos enjoyed a largely successful season by many standards. However, their postseason was overshadowed by internal tensions as long-simmering issues came to the surface.

At the heart of the dispute lies the question of the club’s foundation—specifically, who holds the rightful mandate to claim ownership. This debate has also raised concerns about who has been truly responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the Jinja-based side.

The controversy has caused divisions throughout the club, affecting players, management, and even the fans. To understand the situation, we sat down with Hippos Rugby Club Chairman Manzi Jonan and Secretary Ian Kiryowa to hear their side of the story, as we continue to unravel the facts.

Bruno Akampa and Caesar Ankunda sat down with Gorilla 7s organisers Derrick "Aziz" Mpora and Jude Rwakayanga for an engaging conversation about rugby in western Uganda and the distinctive high-altitude Gorilla 7s tournament. This event offers a fresh perspective on Ugandan rugby, delivering thrilling action, pushing players to their limits, and providing an unforgettable weekend of festivities for fans. Tune in and let us know what you think!

#uganda #rugby #riseofrugby #rugbycompetition #sevensrugby #7srugby #Uganda #Kampala

Listen to our X Space Recording 🎙️ 16th June 2025 - Rugby Cranes XVs in Namibia - Lady Cranes XVs efforts in Madagascar - Uganda 7s task in Mauritius - Hippos saga - Philip Wokorach lights up the RPL And more ...

With the local rugby XVs season behind us, all eyes now turn to the Kampala International 7s—set to bring a fresh burst of excitement to Uganda’s rugby scene. Promising a unique twist to the game, this upcoming tournament is gearing up to energize fans and players alike.

Bruno Akampa caught up with organisers Daniel Canowira and Dickens Akena to get a preview of what’s in store. Don’t miss it—something epic is on the horizon!

#rugby #Uganda #Kenya #worldrugby #Africa #EastAfrica #rugbycompetition #riseofrugby #rugbyunion #festival #funweekend

TONIGHT AT 7:30PM

TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Revamped HSBC format and what it means for 🇺🇬 with @michaelkwambo of @two5fourKE

2. What went wrong; what went right in the semifinals

3. Combined @HipposRugby & @piratesrugbyUG 23 man squad by @isa_metrics

4. Finals preview

A conversation so good that it could not fit in one episode: Justin Kimono returned to Gardens Najjera to talk about his transition to club and national team rugby. Going through adversity & so many untold stories that he now finally feels comfortable talking about. Enjoy! #uganda #stories #sports #podcast #rugbypodcast #sportsnews #interview #ugandarugby

In our second episode of 2025, we had the honor of hosting the man, the myth, the living legend—Justin Simwende Kimono. His story was so compelling that we had to split our conversation into two parts to do it justice. In this episode, he describes his high school journey and how it shaped him into one of the most recognized names in Ugandan rugby. #Rugby #Uganda #HighSchoolRugby #HighSchoolSports #Sports #Podcast #Conversation

Kicking off our 2025 podcast series, we hosted brothers Brian Odongo and Steven Ogwete, who have had a fascinating journey playing rugby from school, to KOBs Rugby Club in Uganda and the Uganda Rugby National team. Check out their story! #podcast #podcasts #conversation #rugby #rugbyunion #stories #sports #brothers #uganda

On our tour of Kenya during the Elgon Cup, we were hosted by Kenya Sevens legend Dennis Ombachi who embraced culinary mastery in his retirement, going by the moniker - Roaming Chef. We talked rugby, cooking, and life in general; watch and let us know what you think. #uganda #rugbyafrica #rugby #kenya #rugbyunion #podcast #interview #stories #sports #africa #Ombachi #roamingchef #chef #cooking

In this episode, we hosted Oscar Bakojja Kalyango, former Uganda Rugby MVP, Captain of KOBS Rugby club, and former Uganda Rugby Cranes player. A wholesome discussion about his journey, the state of rugby, and the changes in his life. Watch this and let us know what you think. #uganda #ugandarugby #rugby #eastafrica #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #rugbystrong #football #rugbyfootball #stories #podcast #entertainment

We hosted the legendary St. Mary's College Kisubi rugby patron & coach to tell us more about rugby in SMACK during his days and his rugby service in Uganda. We discussed a number of key aspects of the game's current situation. Sit back and enjoy, share your feedback, and subscribe. #ugandarugby #rugby #nilespecial #rugbyafrica #schools #schoolsrugby #agegraderugby #uganda #kenya #southafrica #eastafrica #africa #worldrugby

A round up of the weekend's activities, build up to the 2024 Mbarara 7s and how that feeds into the Nile Special 7s series title race. Impis rugby club get a new partnership with Black lyf Uganda. And more .

In part 4 of this series, we had a chat with Isaac Rujumba about Rugby players' welfare and his quest to have the players unionize. Seated at The Gardens Najjera, he shared his disapproval of the current system that runs rugby in Uganda. Hope you enjoy this episode. #podcast #rugby #ugandarugby #uganda #rugbyplayer #rugbyunion #rugbynation #rugbyworldcup #women #unions

In the 3rd installment of this series, we featured Uganda Rugby Union president Godwin Kayangwe. In light of everything that has been going on in the press and on social media, we had to ask him to address several key issues for which the Uganda rugby community needed answers.

#president #uganda #ugandarugby #media #rugbyplayer #player #Africa

Following our interview with Ivan Magomu, Fat Cats Podcasts' Edwin Wabwire sat down with Sports lawyer & Partner at Matrix Advocates Ivan Ojakol to dissect the ruling that led to Ivan Magomu's ban & captaincy stripping. This episode continues the ongoing conversation about player welfare, contracts & what it means for rugby in Uganda to be put in shame. The lawyers had a sit down - enjoy!! Catch this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, or whoever you can get your audio podcast content. Don't forget to share your feedback. #rugbyafrica #sportslaw #sports #sportsInAfrica #Africa #Uganda #Rugby #Podcast #WorldRugby #AfricanRugby

Rugby Africa Cup 2024 brought flavor back to African rugby. With so many teams and officials in Uganda, we took it upon ourselves to catch up with the charismatic Rugby Afrique/Africa President Herbert Mensah at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

Understanding his life story, business acumen, passion for sports especially rugby, and how it landed him in this prestigious position - Enjoy!!

#Rugby #Africa #Uganda #Kenya #Zimbabwe #Namibia #Algeria #Senegal #IvoryCoast #BurkinaFaso

Understanding the Rugby Africa Cup from a sponsor's point of view with Nile Special Brand Manager Eric Malinga. #fatcatspod #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #Africarugby #Uganda #Africa #ugandarugby

This week was all about the deep dive into the semifinal action and what to expect in the upcoming 2nd leg. National team duty is back as well: the Uganda men's sevens and the Lady Cranes sevens teams will be featuring in the Challenger series in Germany and Poland, respectively. Reuben and Edwin dissect the topics; listen in, enjoy, and share your thoughts. #fatcatspod #rugby #uganda #ugandarugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #africa #eastafrica #nilespecialrugby #sevensrugby #ChallengerSeries #SevensChallengerSeries

In this episode, we were joined by Brian Muhumuza from Ug Rugby Fanzone to talk play-off rugby, women's premiership, Uganda sevens, and more. Check it out and let us know what you think. #fatcatspod #rugby #uganda #ugandarugby #podcast #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #africa

This week we welcomed Rhinos & Uganda Rugby Cranes U-20 coach Martial Tchumkam. He narrates a touching story of hardships and how he had to make it despite all adversity - Finding love in Uganda with rugby & the people. Hope you enjoy it. #fatcatspod #rugby #uganda #ugandarugby #podcast #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #eastafrica #africa #nilespecialrugby

It's been a top week for Schools Rugby in Uganda which culminated in a beautiful final. We took the opportunity to have a conversation with St. Mary's College Kisubi Head Coach Alvin Nkamba. He shares his love for rugby and everything around that. Watch it and enjoy yourself!! #rugby #uganda #ugandarugby #fatcatspod #podcast #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #eastafrica #africa

Talking to Aaron Ofoyrwoth about life; growing up in the Nakawa quarters to rugby with Kyadondo Rugby club and Uganda. #rugby #ugandarugby #uganda #podcast #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #eastafrica #fatcatspod

George Scott Oluoch took some time to sit with the Fat Cats and give us a glimpse into his world. From childhood in Kenya to finding himself and doing what he loves to do most in Uganda. With many nicknames; Iceman and the Journeyman, Scott lets down his guard and shares with us some great moments. It took some time to put this episode up so we hope you love it. #rugby #ugandarugby #rugbyplayer #rugbypodcast #uganda #ugandarugby #kenya #kenyarugby #eastafrica #africa #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #sports #podcast

This week, we took a journalistic approach to things. Fresh from the Africa cup of nations in ivory Coast, Clive Kyazze of Uganda Sports Press Association, Pulse Bet & Sanyu FM, joined in to discuss media in rugby & sport in general. #ugandarugby #rugby #podcast #uganda #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #Afcon

The ladies took control of the podcast this week. Enough about the men's opinions, the ladies wanted to have their say and indeed they did. Posha Aloyo hosted Desire Muhenda, Liz Mafuta and Cynthia Nabukeera to talk rugby on the pitch and especially off the pitch !!! #ugandarugby #podcast #rugby #uganda #worldrugby #rugbyafrica #womensrugby #women #WomenInSport #valentinesday

Excitement and drama all wrapped in one; the rugby season is back & it carries a host of changes across the board. We were joined by Heathens fan Lewis Semujju, Impis die-hard Nnyombi Sylvester & Pirates loyal Robert Mulyowa. #ugandarugby #podcast #rugby #fatcatspod

In our episode of the year 2024, it's a speedy affair with Pirates rugby club wing Arnold Atukunda. Coming through to talk about his life & getting to know the man behind the social media posts. #fatcatspod #podcast #rugby #UgandaRugby #WorldRugby #Uganda #eastafrica #rugbyafrica #entertainment #rugbyleague

A few weeks after hosting Dr Stone Luggya; the current Kobs rugby club chairman. We hosted Jean Claude Rutayisire; a passionate KOBs fan to talk strategy & changes as he embarks on taking on the incumbent. #fatcatspod #rugby #ugandarugby #worldrugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #kenya #uganda #eastafrica #kenyarugby

What an event Safari Sevens 2023 has been - somewhere in the thick of things at the RFUEA grounds on Ngong road, we caught up with Ugandan sports journalist and commentator Ernest Akorebirungi & his Kenyan counterpart Kollo Nabiswa. Talking weather, funny moments, what the future holds and most importantly - rugby!! Have fun 😺😺 #fatcatspod #rugby #ugandarugby #worldrugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #uganda #kenya #eastafrica #kenyarugby #safari7s #safari #Sports #entertainment

We sat down with Kampala Old Boys (KOBs) chairman - Tony Luggya a.k.a Stone. The former National team player recently transitioned into rugby management with the club he used to feature for. This is on top of his career as a high-ranking doctor. He addressed several things in his challenging tenure as KOBs chairman ahead of the upcoming Special General Meeting. #fatcatspod #rugby #ugandarugby #uganda #rugbyafrica

Elgon Cup has been tightly contested this year but yet again, Kenya reigns supreme. The Fat Cats took the trip to Kisumu & rubbed shoulders with the Hecklerz. A banter filled discussion ensued in the lights and the darkness of the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium #fatcatspod #rugby #ugandarugby #worldrugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #kenya #uganda #KenyaRugby

We finish what we started last week, Zeno Owora Othieno and Keniga Abraham to return this week at Kick off sports bar for another conversation. Women's rugby, rugby travel tips, Growth of the game & much more. Enjoy it !! #fatcatspod #rugby #rugby #worldrugby #eastafrica #podcast #ugandarugby #rugbyworldcup #rugbyafrica

Back from Zimbabwe, the Fat Cats sat down with Sports enthusiasts Zeno Owora Othieno & Keniga Michael Abraham. We are no in October & we take a look back at a number of things from the time the year started. Hope you enjoy it 😺 #fatcatspod #candid #withoutfearorFavour #rugby #worldrugby #eastafrica #podcast #ugandarugby #uganda7s#rugbyafrica7s #rugbyworldcup #nilespecial7s #Uganda

With 6 circuits down and one to go, we hosted winners of the most recent circuit(Tororo); Walukuba Barbarians - They were represented by captain Bob Kawanda & talented youngster Gift Wokorach. In addition, we had the experienced Kobs rugby forward Derrick Tukwasibwe in the fold. Watch it and let us know how you feel. #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #nilespecial7s #podcast #fatcatspod #sevensrugby #nilespecialrugby #rugbyafrica

6 circuits down, 1 to go but first, we take a break. This week. we hosted Avengers club captain Faith Namugga, Emily Lekuru; club captain along with Buffaloes vice captain Daniel Katerega The players got honest and revealing - a different side to things #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #nilespecial7s #fatcatspod

We've been having rumours of weddings in the group so we decided to address them. The Nile Special Sevens are heating up as we head to Tororo for the second last circuit; what people should expect..... Addressing a plethora of issues in the game. Hope you enjoy 🐱🐱 #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #nilespecial7s #FatCatsPod

Ahead of what is anticipated to be one of the biggest rugby festivities in 2023, we hosted a contingent from Kyadondo; Ex com member Desire Derekford Mugumisa, Heathens rugby captain Trevor Ochan and Thunderbirds' Sarah Nakafeero They talk about their come up stories, Kyadondo Sevens preparations and more. Hope you enjoy!! #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #rugbyafrica #uganda #nilespecial7s #sevensrugby

Four Nile Special Rugby Sevens circuits done - Kobs finally get their circuit win. This week, we invited over Jude Rwakayanga of Rams Rugby club based in Makerere along with Immaculate from the Ewes women's rugby team Get to know their origin and their journey #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #rugbyafrica #uganda #nilespecial7s

Following two days of festivities & rugby action at the King's Park Arena in Bweyogerere #Rujumba7s The team was still in recovery mode but managed to make it to this week's podcast. We talk about two promising talents. Allan Olango from Rhinos rugby; whom along with his teammates have put on some blistering performances. And Trevor Tusiime; 7s coach of Mongers Rugby club - his youngsters made the semi finals & finished 4th at the Rujumba Sevens. We dive deep into both sets of scenarios & all the chaos that happened during the weekend. #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #nilespecialrugby #africa #sevensrugby #rugbyafrica #uganda #nilespecial7s

Two circuits done & all have gone Pirates'. The Sea Robbers' dominating form continues to subdue all opponents & their fans are having a field day with this victorious run on the internet. Upnext is the Henry Rujumba Sevens at Pirates' home; Kings Park Arena. A circuit Pirates hasn't been the best at. Last year, it was won by rivals KOBS. The Fat Cats were joined by Sendifa George William & Joseph Maani; fans of Pirates & Impis respectively to discuss sevens rugby, 2 day tournaments, who's stopping Pirates and more. #worldrugby #rugby #ugandarugby #eastafrica #podcast #rugbyafrica #uganda #nilespecialrugby #sevensrugby #UgandaSevens

The sevens season is fully underway & the Jinja circuit is now in the past. However, it has so many memories from the rugby fans. This being our first episode having made one year as a podcast; one of our first guests from the launched came back around. Edgar Pajob; Pirates player on a break, rugby fan & ex Uganda international showed up for kiboozi. Enough of the chit chat, dive in and have a blast. #FatCatsPodcast #Rugby #NileSpecial #NileSpecialRugby, #UgandaRugby #WorldRugby #SevensRugby #UgandaSevens #WorldRugby

In celebratory fashion, we shot this episode on Eid Al Adha & had a conversation over a Nile special. Brand Manager Nile Special: Joel Galla & Timothy Mugisha of the National Sevens defending champs; Jinja Hippos paid us a visit. Edwin and Bruno played host; jumping right into some interesting & insightful conversations. #rugby #ugandarugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #uganda #worldrugby #eastafrica #eastafrica #nilespecialrugby

After a testing series of playoff games, Eagles Rugby Club emerged Champions of the URU Championship. Subsequently, they are promoted to the top tier of rugby in Uganda - The Rugby Premiership Kihumuro Ruben sat with Club president; Adam Kabalega who told the story of the club & the ambition in sight. #rugby #ugandarugby #podcast #sports #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #uganda #eastafrica #africa

Rugby development is something that is rarely spoken of in Ugandan rugby but it's one of the most crucial aspects of how the game is set up. This week, Ambrose "Pio" Kakuru & Emmanuel "Emwalk" Walakira joined Fat Cats; Edwin Wabwire & Ruben Kihumuro to talk rugby coaching, memories & what needs to be done. Hope you enjoy 🐱 #ugandarugby #rugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #uganda #africa #eastafrica #schoolsrugby

It's been a blessed week at the Fat Cats lair. This week, we had Uganda Rugby long serving servant & an undoubted legend. He talked about his journey & his future in the game of rugby. #ugandarugby #HeathensRugby #rugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #nilespecialrugby #Uganda

It's been a marathon of parties and online banter from the Pirates camp. This week, we decided to speak to the orchestrators of their 2023 triumph. Pirates head coach Marvin Odongo and chairman Daniel Canowira joined the Fat Cats for a reflective conversation on a tough season with an unforgettable climax. #ugandarugby #rugby #podcast #rugbyafrica #worldrugby #PiratesRugby #uganda #EastAfrica