| Thomas Kawere | |
| Birth Date: | 1 June 1927 |
| Birth Place: | Uganda |
| Nationality: | Ugandan |
| Occupation: | Boxer, Coach |
| Years Active: | 1945-1960 (as a boxer), 1959-2021 (as a coach) |
| Known For: | First East African to win a medal in an international boxing tournament |
| Notable Works: | Silver medal at the 1958 Commonwealth Games |
| Awards: | 'Service to Country' award (2016) |
Thomas Kawere (June 1, 1927 - December 5, 2021) also known as Tom Kawere was a Ugandan boxer and coach, known for his contributions to the sport both as a competitor and a mentor. Kawere was notably the first East African to win a medal in an international boxing tournament, securing a silver medal at the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff, Wales.[1]
Thomas Kawere was born on June 1, 1927. He attended Namilyango College, where his engagement with boxing began in 1945. Despite being an all-rounder, doing well in football, cricket, and athletics, Kawere decided to focus on boxing after a cricket injury. He captained the Namilyango College boxing team from 1945 to 1949.[2] [3]
Kawere's boxing talent became more apparent. In 1958, he achieved a significant milestone by winning a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games, making him the first East African to accomplish such a feat on an international platform.[4] Kawere's skill in the ring was enhanced by his unique footwork, a technique he often attributed to his background in dancing. He claimed that good dancers tend to have the footwork required for boxing success.[5]
After retiring from competitive boxing, Kawere transitioned to coaching, playing a significant role in the development of Ugandan boxing. He served as Uganda’s national boxing coach from 1959, mentoring boxers like Ayub Kalule and John 'The Beast' Mugabi. Kawere's influence extended beyond Uganda; during the 1960 Rome Olympics, he allowed a young Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali) to train with the Ugandan team, recognizing the benefits of this exchange for both parties involved.
Throughout his life, Kawere received numerous recognition for his contributions to sports. In 2016, he was presented with the 'Service to Country' award at a Namilyango College alumni event, acknowledging his lasting impact on Ugandan boxing and sports culture.
Kawere was known for his vibrant personality and dedication to mentoring young athletes. He passed away in 2021 at nearly 100 years old, leaving behind a legacy as the grandfather of Ugandan boxing.