KAMPALA, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) -- Uganda started preparations for 2018 Thomas & Uber Cup qualifying tournament to take place in Algiers, Algeria despite lack of funds.

Simon Mugabi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Badminton Association (UBA), said Friday that the tournament (February 11-19) will help his players prepare better for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The official explained that although they will have to take a full team in order to compete in the team events as well, they are still battling with issues of funds.

"We have sent proposals to private companies and also the government through the National Council of Sports to help us," added Mugabi.

Uganda won bronze medals in 2016 Uber Cup qualifiers. Enditem