A 13-year-old Ugandan boy, Herbert Mukisa — fondly known as “Dynamite Kid” — has emerged not only as a sporting sensation but also a symbol of raw talent overcoming adversity.
Mukisa, who hails from the poverty-stricken slums of Ndeba, Katwe Kibuye in Kampala, defied the odds by reaching the round of 32 in a field of seasoned players more than twice his age, at The Timba XO International Pool Carnival in Eldoret.
His journey, marked by grit and hustle, struck a powerful chord with Hon. Oscar Sudi, who was so moved that he pledged to fully sponsor Mukisa’s education and purchase a pool table to support his training.
“Herbert’s story reminds us that true talent can emerge from even the harshest conditions. I want him to succeed in school and pool,” said Sudi, adding that this intervention will allow the young champ to balance academics and sport, giving him a solid foundation for a brighter future.
This isn’t Mukisa’s first headline. In February, he won the inaugural Genesis Juniors (U-17) tournament, dominating the finals with a 6-1 victory over his teammate, and bagging a Shs400,000 prize.
As Eldoret transformed into a showbiz arena during the carnival, celebrities like Andrew Kibe joined the buzz. The media personality praised Sudi’s efforts, calling the event “the biggest pool tournament Kenya has seen.”
