Uganda’s highly rated super bantamweight boxer Salimat Tibesigwa, popularly known as “Green Mamba,” has officially been listed as inactive after going 12 months without a professional bout, raising concern within the country’s growing women’s boxing scene.

Tibesigwa last competed on Friday, 20 December 2024, at the MTN Arena, Lugogo, where she delivered an emphatic second-round TKO victory over Lulu Kayage. At the time, the win reinforced her reputation as one of Uganda’s most talented female boxers. However, despite that strong performance, no fight followed in the subsequent year, triggering inactivity status.

A Talented Career on Pause

Salimat Tibesigwa holds a professional record of 14 fights, 10 wins (4 by KO), and 4 losses. Her aggressive style, ring confidence, and ability to finish fights have consistently set her apart. Within Uganda, she is widely regarded as the second most talented female boxer, trailing only trailblazer Catherine Naziri.

Her inactivity is therefore not a reflection of declining ability, but rather a pause in momentum at a stage when activity is most critical for growth, visibility, and international progression.

The Dangers of Prolonged Inactivity

At this point in her career, inactivity presents several serious risks:

Loss of Competitive Sharpness:
Even with consistent gym work, nothing replaces live competition. Timing, reflexes, and decision-making under pressure can deteriorate during long layoffs.

Ranking and Visibility Decline:
Inactive fighters are often removed from national and international rankings, reducing opportunities for major bouts, sponsorships, and international call-ups.

Increased Injury Risk on Return:
A long break from competition raises the likelihood of injuries when a boxer returns without proper fight conditioning.

Psychological Impact:
Extended inactivity can affect confidence, motivation, and mental readiness—especially for elite athletes accustomed to competition rhythm.

For women’s boxing, where opportunities are already limited, inactivity can be especially damaging.

How These Risks Can Be Avoided

To prevent further stagnation and protect Tibesigwa’s career trajectory, several steps are crucial:

1. Immediate Return Plan
Her camp should prioritize securing a return fight—preferably a controlled comeback bout—within the shortest possible time frame.

2. Activity Over Perfection
Waiting for “big fights” can be costly. Regular competitive activity, even in rebuilding or tune-up fights, keeps a boxer sharp and relevant.

3. Regional and International Exposure
Exploring bouts within East Africa and beyond can help bypass local bottlenecks and create momentum.

4. Strategic Promotion
Active promotion through media, rankings platforms, and fight negotiations is essential to keep her name visible.

Advice to the Green Mamba Camp

Salimat Tibesigwa’s talent is not in question—her activity is. Her camp must treat this inactivity as a warning signal rather than a setback. The priority should be consistent fights, not perfect matchups, and a long-term plan that protects both her health and her standing in the sport.

With proper guidance, regular competition, and strategic matchmaking, Green Mamba can quickly reclaim momentum and continue her rise in Ugandan women’s boxing.

Final Word

Salimat Tibesigwa remains one of Uganda’s brightest female boxing talents. Inactivity may have paused her journey, but it has not ended it. How quickly and decisively her camp responds will determine whether this silence becomes a temporary lull—or a lasting obstacle—in an otherwise promising career.

In boxing, talent opens doors—but activity keeps them open.