FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Author: Ahmed Marsha

  • Uganda Police vow zero tolerance to crime ahead of CHAN 2024 showpiece at Namboole

    Uganda Police vow zero tolerance to crime ahead of CHAN 2024 showpiece at Namboole

    As Uganda prepares to host Group C fixtures of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), the Uganda Police Force has stepped up to guarantee maximum safety for both local citizens and visiting delegations.

    Addressing the media at the Uganda Media Centre on Tuesday morning, Uganda Police spokesperson and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Kituuma Rusoke, assured the public of a watertight security plan throughout the tournament period.

    “This is not just a football event—it is a national moment of pride and international focus. But we are equally aware that such events can attract opportunistic criminals. Let it be known: we shall act decisively against any disruptive or criminal activity,” Rusoke asserted.

    With the first match set to take place on August 4 at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, Rusoke revealed that a multi-agency operation involving the Police, military, and intelligence bodies has been deployed. Their mandate covers match venues, team hotels, training facilities, fan zones, and major transit routes.

    He cautioned individuals against engaging in ticket fraud, impersonation, or attempts to sneak into the stadium using forged passes, confirming that surveillance systems and undercover security personnel will be actively monitoring all areas.

    “Tight security measures are in place, and there will be no leniency. Any wrongdoer caught will face the full extent of the law. Criminals, be warned—our eyes are everywhere,” Rusoke declared.

    He further urged the public to cooperate with security personnel, observe stadium guidelines, and report any suspicious activity immediately, reinforcing that a safe environment will be crucial for the success of the prestigious continental tournament.

    CHAN 2024 kicks off on August 2, with thousands of fans expected to pour into the newly refurbished Namboole Stadium to rally behind the Uganda Cranes and other Group C teams in action.

  • FUFA Appoints Bashir Mutyaba as Football Development Director

    FUFA Appoints Bashir Mutyaba as Football Development Director

    We are pleased to announce that Mr. Bashir Mutyaba has been appointed as the new Football Development Director of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), effective 1st August 2025. This appointment follows the recruitment of Mr. Ali Mwebe by FIFA as a Regional Technical Consultant.

    Mr. Mutyaba, previously a member of FUFA’s Development Department, has been instrumental in youth football development and is well positioned to drive continuity and adoption of ongoing FUFA, CAF and FIFA programmes.

    For all correspondence and collaboration, please reach out to:

    Mr. Bashir Mutyaba

    FUFA Football Development Director

    Telephone: +256 701 947419

    Email: bmutyaba@fufauganda.com / bashirmutyaba@gmail.com

    We kindly request all football stakeholders to extend their support and collaboration to Mr. Mutyaba in his new role.

    FIFA has equally been informed accordingly and has responded affirmatively.

  • Yunus Jr. Sentamu relives his CHAN breakthrough and eyes history on home soil

    Yunus Jr. Sentamu relives his CHAN breakthrough and eyes history on home soil

    From the hilly beauty of Kasese to continental glory, Uganda Cranes forward Yunus Junior Sentamu has lived the kind of football journey that sounds like a scripted fairy tale, except it’s all true. As the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) draws closer, “Manucho” reflects on his humble beginnings, career-defining 2014 tournament, and the rare opportunity to write a new chapter in front of home fans.

    From Forbidden Football to the Global Stage

    Born to Mrs. Kabuwo Ramlah and Mr. Kayanja Abdul, Sentamu’s story begins far from the floodlights of football stadia. Raised in Kasese, his parents particularly his mother were strictly against him playing football, urging him to focus on education. But fate, passion and one childhood friend changed everything.

    “My friend Kibaya would come home, help me with housework, and then take me to play football. He’s still my number one supporter. Eventually, he convinced my parents to give me a chance,” Sentamu recalls with gratitude.

    That small door of opportunity led him to Mengo Noor Primary School in Kampala. Still, under his mother’s close watch, football was out of the question until a chance to travel for a tournament in Egypt emerged. Determined to make the most of it, Sentamu pleaded for white soccer boots from his uncle and with boots in hand and courage in heart, he dazzled.

    Although his team fell short to Juventus Makindye, Sentamu’s performance caught the eye of the late Peter Ssebulime, who would become his football father.

    “He talked to my parents in Kasese and promised to take full responsibility for my education and football. He kept his word,” Sentamu says.

    Soon after, he joined St. Julian Gayaza for secondary school and later St. Mary’s Kitende for A-Level studies all thanks to Ssebulime’s mentorship and the football-loving Director Mr. Sserugo.

    CHAN 2014: The Breakthrough

    Uganda’s second appearance at CHAN in 2014 South Africa was supposed to be a learning curve, but it turned out to be Sentamu’s launchpad to stardom.

    At the time, he was a last-minute addition, filling in for striker Patrick Edema who had left for Portugal.

    “I was nervous,” Sentamu admits. “There were so many quality players—Crespo Asiku, Joseph Mpande, Vincent Kayizzi, I didn’t expect to play.”

    But in the team meeting, then-coach Micho Sredojevic turned to the young forward and handed him a surprise start against Burkina Faso.

    “I was trembling from the hotel to the pitch walk,” he says. “Then the late coach Fred Kajoba pulled me aside and told me to be confident, that I would score. And I did a brace!”

    Uganda won that match 2-1 and Sentamu never looked back. He finished the tournament with three goals, tied with South Africa’s Bernard Parker, becoming the joint top scorer.

    After the game, the late businessman Ivan Ssemwanga visited the Cranes’ camp and gave each player $200. And Sentamu gave $100 to Kajoba for his faith and encouraging words prior to the game.

    That performance opened big doors. AS Vita Club of DR Congo came calling, and with them, Sentamu reached the CAF Champions League final in his debut season.

    Returning to CHAN After a Decade

    Now, ten years later, Sentamu is back for the 2024 CHAN, co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Uganda will be making their seventh consecutive appearance, and the Vipers SC forward is determined to help them reach the knockout stages for the first time ever.

    “I’m praying to God that I’ll do even better this time around,” he says. “We’ve always had talent but never made it out of the groups. This time, we must.”

    Uganda has been drawn in a tough Group C alongside Algeria, South Africa, Niger, and Guinea but Sentamu remains unfazed.

    “I’ve faced most of these teams or their styles at club level. Football has changed. It’s no longer about names, it’s about preparation, hard work and belief.”

    Home Crowd, Home Pressure, Home Glory?

    For the first time ever, Uganda will host CHAN matches on their soil something that’s both exciting and nerve-wracking.

    “Playing at home is special,” he says. “The fans give you energy, but they also demand more. We must use that energy to our advantage.”

    He believes this edition could be the most iconic in FUFA’s 100-year history.

    “Football is about moments. And this is one of those moments,” he says. “We just have to believe that this is our time to make history.”

    As Uganda prepares for the tournament kickoff, Sentamu’s story is a reminder that dreams can be delayed but not denied. From a mother who said no, to a mentor who said yes. From a white pair of boots to the grandest stages of African football. From nervous teenager to national icon, Yunus Jr. Sentamu’s journey is far from over.

    And if his words are anything to go by, he’s just getting started again.

    “This is our moment. Let’s make it count.”

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  • Ahimbisibwe, Usama Make Passionate Plea to Fans Ahead of CHAN 2024 as Uganda Cranes Eye Glory at Home

    Ahimbisibwe, Usama Make Passionate Plea to Fans Ahead of CHAN 2024 as Uganda Cranes Eye Glory at Home

    Where passion meets purpose, it is the fans who breathe life into the beautiful game. Their cheers echo louder than any whistle, their presence turning stadiums into sanctuaries of dreams.

    Without fans, sport is just motion, no emotion, no fire. They are the pulse that keeps the game alive, lifting teams with cheers, challenging with critiques, and standing tall in both triumph and tears. Whether rallying resources or roaring from the terraces, fans turn matches into memories and moments into magic.

    As East Africa hosts the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), a precursor to the AFCON 2027 tournament, the different fans are ready and roaring to support their respective teams in the box.

    For Uganda Cranes winger Arafat Usama, the power of fans in a tournament like CHAN is crystal clear.

    “Fans are an added advantage. We need them,” Usama told the media at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole training ground on Tuesday afternoon.

    Usama, a left-footed winger who features at KCCA Football Club in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, is humbled for being among the pool of players who made the 25-man final squad.

    “It is a blessing to be part of the team,” he smiled. “This is a result of hard work and I am ready to give my best in the championship.”

    Usama has set personal and team targets at CHAN 2024.

    “We are working towards qualification out of the group. Personally and as a team, we believe that we can make it,” Usama confidently stated.

    Joining Usama in the plea to fans is now his teammate at KCCA FC Ivan Ahimbisibwe, who recently signed from Uganda Premier League side URA FC.

    Ahimbisibwe, who scored 16 goals last season earned his place in the Cranes’ CHAN squad through consistent form, emphasized the importance of home support as Uganda prepares to face top-tier continental opposition.

    “We are well-prepared and ready to compete, and having our fans behind us will push us even harder,” Ahimbisibwe shared. “I call upon all Ugandans to come in big numbers and fill Namboole. Your presence gives us energy, belief, and confidence.”

    Reflecting on the recent Trination Invitational Tournament experience in Arusha Tanzania, where Uganda played against Tanzania and Senegal, Ahimbisibwe described it as a pivotal step in their preparation.

    “Those games were a great learning curve. We faced different styles of play, and that exposed us to what we expect at CHAN. It helped us bond more as a team and sharpen our tactical discipline,” he added.

    Promising to give his all, Ahimbisibwe assured the fans of committed performances.

    “Personally, I promise to deliver. I’ve prepared well, and I’m hungry to score and contribute to the team’s success. With the fans beside us, we can achieve something special together at home,” he declared.

    Uganda is pooled in Group C alongside two West African countries Guinea and Niger, North African giants Algeria, and Southern Africa’s South Africa.

    Niger became the first team to arrive in Uganda, touching down at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday, 29th July 2025.

    Uganda Cranes open their campaign against Algeria on Monday, 4th August 2025, followed by a clash with Guinea on Friday, 8th August.

    The third game comes on Monday, 11th August against Niger, and the final group stage encounter will be against South Africa on Monday, 18th August all at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole under floodlights.

    CHAN 2024 – Uganda Cranes Group C Fixtures (All at Namboole, 8:00 PM):

    Monday, 4th August: Uganda vs Algeria
    Friday, 8th August: Guinea vs Uganda
    Monday, 11th August: Uganda vs Niger
    Monday, 18th August: South Africa vs Uganda

    The CHAN tournament, now in its 8th edition, features players solely from domestic leagues and will be played from 2nd to 30th August 2025 across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, a first-ever tri-nation hosting that underlines East Africa’s growing football credentials.

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    Training session – Tuesday 29th July 2024

  • CHAN 2024: Niger treated to glorious welcome

    CHAN 2024: Niger treated to glorious welcome

    Clad in their famed greens and orange track suits, the Niger national team touched down at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday afternoon to become the first squad to arrive in Uganda for the Championship of Africa Nations.

    The West Africans were treated to various traditional dances as they made their way out of the airport at the arrivals terminal.

    Niger are grouped in C along with Uganda, South Africa, Algeria and Guinea. From the airport, the team were driven to Protea Skyz in Naguru where the squad will be staying.

    The Niger team and delegation were visibly impressed with the giant Silverback that is strategically placed to receive everyone heading out of the airport at the arrivals section.

    Their players reached for their phones to catch images of the giant silverback and other individuals who were dressed in the form of gorillas. It was evident that the Niger delegation also warmed up to the entertainment that welcomed them at airport.

    The players moved at snail’s pace from the airport building to their team bus with a good number of them wanting to catch more of the cultural dances by Crane performers.

    Niger are the lowest rated side in Group C and will have their work cut out against all their four opponents.

    Niger open their tournament with a match against Guinea on Monday at 5pm.

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  • FUFA President orients Judicial Bodies Members at FUFA Complex Mengo, Ushering in a New Era for Football Governance

    FUFA President orients Judicial Bodies Members at FUFA Complex Mengo, Ushering in a New Era for Football Governance

    The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) continues to strengthen its governance frameworks with the successful hosting of an orientation meeting for its newly constituted judicial bodies. Held on Monday, 28th July 2025, at the FUFA Complex in Mengo, the meeting served as a key milestone in ushering in a new chapter of football justice in Uganda.

    The members attending this orientation were recently appointed or reappointed during the 101st FUFA Annual General Assembly (AGA), which took place in Hoima on 5th July 2025. Their official onboarding signals the start of their term across the various judicial arms of the federation. The meeting was chaired by the FUFA President Hon Magogo Moses Hassim, and attended by senior FUFA officials including Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson, the Head of Legal, Denis Lukambi among others

    FUFA, in line with international football governance principles, operates a strong and independent judicial structure that helps regulate conduct, resolve disputes, and enforce discipline in accordance with its statutes and the regulatory frameworks set by CAF and FIFA. These judicial bodies are entrusted with making key decisions on disciplinary matters, ethical violations, appeals, player and club disputes, and contractual issues.

    The orientation was designed to bring new committee members up to speed with FUFA’s legal and regulatory environment, clarify the mandate of each judicial body, and emphasize the need for professionalism, impartiality, and integrity. Members were taken through FUFA’s judicial architecture, case management procedures, and the expected standards of conduct for office bearers. The meeting also served as a platform for reflection on past lessons and the setting of expectations for the years ahead.

    The judicial bodies under FUFA include:

    • The FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, now led by Chairman Charles Kalule, which is responsible for investigating and ruling on breaches of the FUFA Disciplinary Code. This includes matters related to misconduct on and off the field, match-fixing, and unsporting behavior.
    • The FUFA Appeals Committee, chaired by Counsel Tony Mawejje, which provides a second level of judicial scrutiny by hearing appeals against decisions made by the Disciplinary and other FUFA Committees.
    • The FUFA Investigatory Chamber of the Ethics Committee, now chaired by Counsel Sarah Mwebesa, which acts as the initial investigating authority on matters related to ethical violations. Its findings guide the adjudicatory chamber in rendering verdicts.
    • The FUFA Dispute Resolution Chamber, under the leadership of Counsel George Musisi, which handles employment-related and contractual disputes between players, coaches, clubs, and other football stakeholders.

    The reconstitution of these committees follows a structured and democratic process embedded in the FUFA Statutes and ensures that the Federation maintains its compliance with international best practices in sports law and governance.

    Throughout the orientation, emphasis was placed on the need for objectivity, diligence, and legal rigor in managing cases, given the rising complexity and visibility of football matters both locally and internationally. Members were reminded of the critical role they play not only in enforcing rules but also in building trust and credibility within Uganda’s football community.

    The FUFA Legal Department provided an overview of the major statutes, codes of conduct, and operational guidelines that underpin the functioning of the committees. This included an in-depth look at the FUFA Disciplinary Code, the FUFA Ethics Code, and the procedural rules guiding hearings and decisions.

    The orientation also aligns with FUFA’s broader strategic goal of professionalizing football administration at all levels. By investing in the training, induction, and continuous development of its judicial officers, FUFA is laying a strong foundation for fair play, legal integrity, and institutional trust—key ingredients for sustainable football development.

    With their mandates now formally set in motion, the members of FUFA’s judicial bodies are expected to bring both expertise and character to their duties. Whether handling disciplinary issues arising from league matches, contractual disputes in the player transfer market, or broader ethical concerns in football administration, their decisions will shape the direction and image of Ugandan football in the years ahead.

    Pictorial

  • Kizito and Anyama Fire Up CHAN 2024 Hopes

    Kizito and Anyama Fire Up CHAN 2024 Hopes

    As the countdown to the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 tournament continues, optimism runs high in the Uganda Cranes camp. Defender Gavin Kizito Mugweri and forward Emmanuel Anyama have shared their thoughts ahead of the tournament expressing confidence in the team’s potential to make history.

    Experienced defender Gavin Kizito Mugweri believes playing on home soil will give Uganda the edge they need to break new ground at the tournament.

    ‘Playing from home gives us an advantage,’ said Kizito.

    ‘We will be having more support from the fans. We shall come out of the group stages for the first time with the fans behind us.’

    The Cranes have never progressed beyond the group stage in previous CHAN tournaments but Kizito is hopeful this year will be different.

    ‘First of all, I want to contribute to the team to see that we come out of the group stages for the first time in the CHAN tournament and then we see what goes on.’

    For forward Emmanuel Anyama, CHAN 2024 is a special milestone. The tournament marks his first call-up to the senior national team and he is determined to make the most of the opportunity.

    ‘It is by the grace of God that I have made it to the final squad,’ he said. ‘It takes a lot of determination and hard work. The target is to win. To be champions.’

    Despite being a debutant, Anyama has set high expectations for himself.

    ‘This is my first summon and I am really grateful for making it,’ he added. ;The fans and everyone in the country should expect goals from me that can push the team to the next stage.’

    Set to feature in the tournament for a seventh time, the Uganda Cranes have become regulars on the CHAN stage and is in Group C with Niger, Guinea, Algeria and South Africa.

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    Final squad

  • TotalEnergies CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes Final Squad Named

    TotalEnergies CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes Final Squad Named

    Uganda Cranes co-coach Morley Byekwaso has today announced the final squad for the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024.

    Allan Okello will lead the team as the captain throughout the whole tournament and will be assisted by Joel Mutakubwa and Rogers Ochaki Torach.

    The squad consists of 25 players, including three goalkeepers, eight defenders, seven midfielders and seven forwards.

    Set to feature in the tournament for a seventh time, the Uganda Cranes have become regulars on the CHAN stage and is in Group C with Niger, Guinea, Algeria and South Africa.

    As one of the tournament hosts, Uganda gained automatic qualification to CHAN 2024 alongside Kenya and Tanzania. However, in preparation for the tournament, the Cranes took part in the qualifiers and edged Burundi 2-0 on aggregate, an exercise that helped shape the team ahead of the finals.

    Uganda will open its campaign on 4th August 2025 against Algeria.

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    Squad

    Goalkeepers: 1 Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC), 18 Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC) and 19 Chrispas Kusiima (Kitara FC)

    Defenders: 2 Arnold Odong (SC Villa), 3 Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC), 4 Gideon Odong (NEC FC), 5 Herbert Achai (KCCA FC), 13 Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), 15 Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC), 16 Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC) and 22 Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC)

    Midfielders: 6 Joseph Youngman Marvin (Vipers SC), 8 Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa), 10 Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa), 21 Allan Okello © (KCCA FC), 23 Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC), 24 Enock Ssebagala (Vipers SC) and 25 Abdu Karim Watambala.

    Forwards: 7 Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC), 9 Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC), 11 Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC), 12 Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC), 14 Reagan Mpande (SC Villa), 17 Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC) and 20 Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC).

    Fixtures

    Media Package: Download raw photos of the players
  • FUFA Tv Cup 2025 Round of 32 First Leg: Reigning Champions Held, Kibuli SS Continues with Unbeaten Run in A Weekend of Belief, Bruises and Breakthroughs

    FUFA Tv Cup 2025 Round of 32 First Leg: Reigning Champions Held, Kibuli SS Continues with Unbeaten Run in A Weekend of Belief, Bruises and Breakthroughs

    Progress is sighted in the prestigious FUFA Tv Cup tournament this year with the first leg of the Round of 32 wrapped up on Sunday, July 27, having 16 matches played across different regions of Uganda. What began as a weekend of promise quickly turned into a battlefield of school football pride — filled with joy, tension, heartbreak, and hope. From the North through the Central, Eastern, western to the Southern regions, each game brought out the very essence of the tournament: Excellence in Academics and Sports.

    Emotions ran high, the action unfolded over two days — Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July — leaving fans with memorable moments and players with everything to fight for in the return leg.

    By the numbers

    ·  24 goals were scored across 16 matches

    ·  8 matches ended in draws, 5 of which were 1-1 and 3 goalless

    ·  A balance of victories witnessed – 4 home teams and 4 away teams won, underlining the intensity and competitiveness

    ·  St. Charles Lwanga Kasasa produced the biggest win, a stunning 3-0 victory over last year’s runners-up Nganwa High School Kabwohe.

    ·  Kibuli SS continued their unbeaten run and clean sheet record with a narrow but vital 1-0 away win at Kololo SSS

    ·  A total of 8 teams now head into the second leg with an advantage, but no tie is truly settled yet

    The opening day (Saturday 26th July 2025) saw 10 games light up school grounds across the country, each with its own storyline.

    One of the most intense matchups came from Lira, where Dr. Obote College Boroboro stood tall against reigning champions Nabumali High School, holding them to a 1-1 draw. Nabumali drew first blood through Okiru Silver in the 10th minute, but the resilient Boroboro boys equalized through Awio Francis early in the second half, setting up a high-stakes return leg.

    At Lugazi, Jinja SSS’s lone goal by Owino John was enough to earn a hard-fought 1-0 win over Mehta SS, giving the guests a slim but valuable edge.

    In Namilyango, the cameras rolled and so did the tackles in a live televised match between Namilyango College and Mengo SS. Despite high expectations and the presence of FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, both sides played out a goalless draw, leaving much to be decided next weekend.

    Meanwhile, in the Jinja derby, Kiira College Butiki and Jinja College neutralized each other in a 0-0 affair, a result that left the hosts disappointed and the tie wide open.

    Other Saturday highlights included:

    ·  St. Kaggwa Bushenyi High School falling 2-1 at home to Muntuyera High School, who showed composure on the road.

    ·  Mpanga SS narrowly edged Buremba SS with a 1-0 win, taking a crucial first-leg advantage.

    ·  Duhaga SS turned on the style to beat Sir Tito Winyi SS 2-1, though the tie remains finely balanced.

    ·  St. Charles Lwanga Koboko held firm for a 1-0 victory over St. Joseph’s College Ombaci, who will now look for a comeback at home.

    ·  Northern giants Gulu High School and St. Joseph’s Layibi couldn’t find the net in a physical 0-0 draw.

    ·  Bukoyo SS and Mbale SS played to a 1-1 draw, a result that leaves everything to play for in the second leg.

    Sunday’s six games provided no less drama, with underdogs rising and big names showing nerves of steel.

    Kibuli SS, who were knocked out in this very stage last season, returned with intent. A composed and disciplined performance saw them edge Kololo SS 1-0 away from home, extending their unbeaten and clean sheet streak in this year’s tournament.

    The clash between Gombe SS and Kakos SS ended in a 1-1 draw, a fair result that means both sides carry equal pressure into the second leg.

    Ngora High School stunned St. Peter’s College Tororo with a 1-0 win on their turf, silencing the home crowd and earning one of the weekend’s biggest away victories.

    The performance of the round came from St. Charles Lwanga Kasasa, who blew away last year’s runners-up Nganwa High School Kabwohe with a convincing 3-0 home victory. It was a showcase of clinical finishing, tactical maturity, and home support, putting Kasasa in a commanding position ahead of the return leg.

    Meanwhile, St. Balikuddembe SS Mitala Maria and St. Mary’s College Kisubi shared a 1-1 draw, in a well-contested affair where both sides showed promise.

    In the final game of the round, Aduku SS and Lango College locked horns in a 1-1 draw, leaving fans eager for what the second leg in Lango will bring.

    With the first leg now behind us, all eyes turn to the return leg fixtures scheduled for 1st to 3rd August 2025. For some teams, the mission is to protect a narrow lead; for others, it’s a chance to regroup, rise, and rewrite their story.

    The FUFA Tv Cup continues to grow as more than just a football competition. It stands as a powerful platform where young talent flourishes, school pride takes center stage, and communities unite through the beautiful game — all while promoting its core value of Excellence in Academics and Sports.

    If the first leg proved anything, it’s that no match is predictable — and the path to the Round of 16 is still wide open. It is noted that away goals rule is not a determinant for winner in the FUFA Tv Cup tournament.

  • TotalEnergies CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes squad to be announced on Monday 28th July 2025

    TotalEnergies CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes squad to be announced on Monday 28th July 2025

    Uganda Cranes final squad for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 will be announced on Monday, 28th July 2025 from FUFA House in Mengo.

    The latest development has been confirmed by the FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein.

    ‘The announcement will be made at 11am at FUFA Complex, Mengo. The technical team currently in charge of the Uganda Cranes will announce the squad.’

    Set to feature in the tournament for a seventh time, the Uganda Cranes have become regulars on the CHAN stage and is in Group C with Niger, Guinea, Algeria and South Africa.

    As one of the tournament hosts, Uganda gained automatic qualification to CHAN 2024 alongside Kenya and Tanzania. However, in preparation for the tournament, the Cranes took part in the qualifiers and edged Burundi 2-0 on aggregate an exercise that helped shape the team ahead of the finals.

    Uganda will open its campaign on 4th August 2025 against Algeria.

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  • Uganda Cranes engage in media, marketing workshop and photoshoot ahead of CHAN 2024

    Uganda Cranes engage in media, marketing workshop and photoshoot ahead of CHAN 2024

    As preparations intensify for the upcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, the Uganda Cranes squad on Saturday 26th July 2025 took part in a special media and marketing workshop conducted at their residential camp at FUFA Technical Centre Hotel in Kisaasi.

    The session was led by the FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein and aimed at equipping both players and the technical staff with essential knowledge on media relations, effective communication, branding and professionalism on and off the pitch. The workshop was part of FUFA’s broader strategy to enhance the team’s public image and prepare them for the demands of the continental stage, where media attention and stakeholder expectations are significantly heightened.

    Hussein emphasized the importance of being media-savvy, especially in the digital era where players’ actions and words can shape public perception in an instant.

    ‘As ambassadors of the nation, it is important for our players to understand their roles in communicating the right messages and carrying themselves in a way that promotes the image of the game and the country. These soft skills are just as important as what you do on the pitch,’ Hussein told the team during the session.

    He also reminded the local-based players about the importance of respecting media protocols, maintaining professionalism during interviews, and embracing personal branding in accordance with FUFA and CAF guidelines. Key topics included dealing with press interviews, handling social media, dressing and image, crisis communication, and understanding the responsibilities that come with representing Uganda on an international platform.

    Following the communications workshop, the team engaged in a photoshoot session and other content creation activities designed to boost their visibility and generate excitement among fans ahead of CHAN 2024. The shoot featured official squad portraits, promotional videos, and creative media content that will be used across FUFA’s platforms and CAF’s tournament materials.

    The Uganda Cranes are currently in camp fine-tuning their preparations for the CHAN tournament that will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from 2nd to 30th August 2025. Uganda is placed in the highly competitive Group C alongside Algeria, South Africa, Guinea, and Niger.

    FUFA continues to take a holistic approach in preparing the team, focusing not just on physical and tactical readiness, but also on player welfare, mental strength, media literacy and public engagement.

  • CHAN 2024 Launch in Uganda: FUFA President’s address at Kololo

    CHAN 2024 Launch in Uganda: FUFA President’s address at Kololo

    Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda. Mama, the Minister of Education and Sports, the Vice President, the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, the Honourable Ministers present, Members of Parliament, Ambassadors, the football fraternity that is here with us, dear fellow countrymen. For me, it’s an emotional day. It is said that dreams are dreams, but dreams, I can testify, come true.

    Your Excellency, as FUFA, we had a dream to emplore the government of the Republic of Uganda to assist us to improve on the sporting infrastructure in the country. We needed to use football to sell Uganda to the world. We needed football to be looked at more than just a sport.

    We realised that one of the things we would do is to host Africa, in East Africa, for the first time. And we also realised that we could not do it alone, because it would be an enormous cost in terms of time and resources. We teamed up with Kenya and Tanzania under the East African integration spirit.

    And we believed that through your Pan-African belief, it would be a good project if we sold it to you. And as a Federation, we reached out to you, Your Excellency, through our Minister, that we needed the government to sign guarantees before we could host CAF as the requirements of the regulations of CAF. Mzee, like it has always been, you did not tire of us.

    You welcomed us and you allowed us to go and submit the bid. We went, as a delegation that was headed by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda and other government dignitaries, to Cairo with a dream that Africa would accept Africa to come here in the biggest sporting competition on the African soil, and that’s the Africa Cup of Nations. Your Excellency, our journey was successful, but it would not have been without your continuous calls and engagement with the other presidents of the other sister countries and also with the CAF President himself.

    The country deserves to know your personal effort in ensuring that we are here. We wouldn’t have been here without your personal input. Your Excellency, it is one thing to qualify AFCON, but it’s totally another thing to bring AFCON to Uganda.

    If everyone is excited as I am here today, let us give a huge round of applause. Your Excellency, we have since recruited Mama to football. When she organised that milestone meeting the Honourable Minister talked about on the 24th of December, which is supposed to be a holiday, and the way she has understood the scope of work, the guidance that she has given, I am happy of the advocacy work we have done as football, that now we have Mama and yourself as number one supporters of the game of football in this country. I therefore wish to inform the country that we are now, from the footballing perspective, ready to host Chan 2024.

    Your Excellency and Mama, with the success of Chan 2024, where we have learned a lot, our setups as FUFA, but I’m sure as the different government functionalities of what it takes to host a competition of this magnitude. With your continued guidance and support, I want to say again that together as Uganda, we are ready to host AFCON 2027.

    Allow me to use this moment, Your Excellency, to appreciate that the first things have been done. We now have stability. We now have peace. As Ugandans, we have general infrastructure to allow us to move from one part of the country to the other.

    Based on that, as football, as sport, we are able to exercise and practice our God-given talents to use the sport. Having done the first things, we went into a phase where we needed government support and you have been very supportive, Your Excellency. Funding of the different sports activities, starting from 400 million shillings in 2014 to about 48 billion Uganda shillings as we speak today.

    We are very proud of that. Now sport can take such a contribution from the National Consolidated Fund. Your Excellency, we have been having a very old law enacted in 1964, but again with the support of Mama as the Minister of Education and Sports, we have been able to get a new one.

    You have assented to the National Sports Act 2023 with the support of the Office of the Attorney General. Thank you so much, Your Excellency. In terms of infrastructure, from playing home, away from home, today as we speak, we have three international stadiums that are coming up, Namboole, Hoima and Akiibua.

    We have training centres that are coming up that will also be used for different competitions, including Kadiba, that will be the home of the National Football Academy. What is remaining is how to integrate sport as an economic activity into the NRM government’s socio-economic transformation agenda. Your Excellency, there is evidence that government’s contribution can show already some fruits at the minimum.

    Between 1979 and 2012, 33 years, we only qualified five times for the continental competitions, for 33 years. With the government support, we are now able to return to Africa, the Africa Cup of Nations, after 39 years for the men and after 22 years for the women, because of this support we are getting from government. We have been able to qualify in the last 12 years, as we speak, for 19 continental finals now, including one world cup for the first time ever.

    We cannot thank government enough and sport and football in particular will continue to make sure that our country benefits from this God-given talent to our children. Your Excellency, in terms of improvement, our vision as FUFA is to become the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch. We cannot get there without proper planning and execution of our plans.

    To be honest, to be the best in Africa requires Uganda to have among the best leagues in the world some of our players. We can only beat Morocco, Nigeria, Cameroon and Egypt, the giants of African football, sporadically. But consistently, we need players who should be playing at the highest level.

    Your Excellency, it takes over 15 years to prepare a footballer to be at that level. It’s not different the way you prepare a doctor to prepare a professional footballer at that level, irrespective of whatever talent you have. And now that we have solved some of the first challenges, it is time to embark on the deliberate football development.

    Your Excellency, FUFA has launched the FUFA technical master plan and it has four pillars to identify talent as early as 9 to 11 years. We have a deliberate elite path in terms of development of these identified talents. We have to ensure that the professional clubs provide a platform for those who may not be able to instantly go to better leagues.

    And Your Excellency, we have to look at the life after playing because many of our footballers who spent a lot of time playing football for this country end up finishing and languishing because they did not learn any trade, they were busy representing the country in their prime age. We are already in the talent identification where we have distributed 66,000 balls donated from FIFA to all government primary schools in Uganda. There is no part of Uganda you go to today and you don’t see these balls being played.

    Instead of the children, instead they are being used by the adults. We have a computer system where the captured talents are being put and we now need to support the academies at the professional clubs and launch the National Football Academy for the elite path development. It is our strategy at FUFA that we now is the time for the football clubs that are development hubs themselves to be supported by public and private sector funding.

    In conclusion, Your Excellency, there has never been a better time for a football person in Uganda than now. Because as we speak, we are hosting Africa. As we speak, our players are going to the World Cup.

    As we speak, we have proper infrastructure. As we speak, we have full government support because we cannot do this without the support of government. Once again, Your Excellency, thank you for always listening to us.

    Mama, thank you so much for supporting football, for supporting sport, for supporting the young children of this country to use their talents to be able to benefit but also to make our country happy. Your Excellency, I want to end by saying we are now ready to host the 2024.

    Thank you so much. For God and my Country.

  • President Museveni Officially Launches TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 in Uganda

    President Museveni Officially Launches TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 in Uganda

    The President of Uganda His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni along with the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni launched the TotalEnergies 2024 tournament today 25th July 2025 at an event which was held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.

    During the launch, President Museveni praised the event as an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s potential as a hub for continental sports events. He emphasised the role of football in uniting the country and promoting regional development.

    ‘Sports is good for stamina and teaches persistence, as well as character. Sports is all about teamwork. You learn how to coordinate with others. We have teamed up not just for football, but to remind ourselves and the world that East Africa is united in purpose. CHAN is a symbol of that brotherhood,’ the President said.

    ‘When CHOGM came to Uganda, we worked on roads and other facilities. I’m very happy about CHAN. It has motivated us to take action. CHAN is going to showcase Uganda to the outside world, and more foreigners will come to know that the country is a very good destination,’ the President added.

    Janet Kataaha Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, addressed the audience, saying, ‘CHAN 2024 is a moment of reflection for our country. CHAN 2024 brings moments of reflection, especially for those who know the history of what we have been through. Sports, especially football, means a lot to many people; it brings out the kind of joy that unites people and creates a big family.’

    She added that hosting CHAN is a testament to the country’s capabilities. ‘Indeed, God has used CAF to bring us together as sister countries to co-host CHAN, and the government is committed to delivering a successful CHAN 2024. We welcome our brothers from Africa to the Pearl of Africa.’

    ‘Uganda has utilized CHAN to upgrade and build facilities like FUFA Kadiba, Muteesa I1 Stadium, and Kyambogo Stadium. These developments will enable the government to leave lasting assets for future use. We thank the President for his dedication and vision in supporting the PAMOJA bid,’ the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports added.

    The Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC) Ms. Veronica Mueni Nduva reaffirmed the regional commitment towards the competition.

    ‘Uganda has shown commitment to regional integration but also to sports. The co-efforts of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda is a testament of our collective support for development in the region,’ she said.

    ‘Impact will be felt far beyond the stadium and goals scored. Football is a platform for positive engagement as it encourages discipline, teamwork and healthy competition,’ she added.

    The FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim talked about FUFA’s commitment for football to be seen as a socio-economic activity.

    ‘As FUFA, we have a dream and I thank the Government for being by our side. We needed football to be seen as something more than a sport. That starts with hosting tournaments,’ the FUFA President said.

    He also commended the Government for ensuring peace and stability in the Country which in turn laid a foundation for such activities to happen.

    ‘The first things have been done. Peace, stability and the presence of infrastructure that enables Ugandans to move from one place to another. We have now gone to the phase of the Government supporting the sport. We had a very old law but now a new law was enacted,’ he said.

    ‘What is remaining is including sport as a socio-economic activity in the agenda,’ he added.

    The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 will be played from 2nd August to 30th August 2025 in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

    Pictorial

  • FUFA TV Cup 2025: Round of 32 Kicks Off This Weekend as FUFA Delivers on Jersey Promise

    FUFA TV Cup 2025: Round of 32 Kicks Off This Weekend as FUFA Delivers on Jersey Promise

    The stage is officially set for the knockout phase of the FUFA TV Cup 2025, with the Round of 32 kicking off this weekend Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July 2025 across various host schools in the country.

    Ten matches will be played on Saturday, followed by six more fixtures on Sunday, as 32 top-performing secondary schools battle for a place in the Round of 16.

    Ahead of the big weekend, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has once again walked the talk by fulfilling its promise made at the start of this edition to support schools with essential competition gear.

    On Thursday 24th July, the federation officially handed over two sets of jerseys to each of the schools that qualified for the Round of 32. The handover ceremony, held at the FUFA Complex in Mengo, was graced by members of the tournament’s organizing committee led by Chairman Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe and Vice Chairperson Mr. Mugerwa Jeremiah.

    Representatives from ten participating schools including games teachers and players were in attendance to receive jerseys in their chosen colors—an important logistical and motivational boost just before matchday.

    ‘Receiving two sets will solve the challenge of home and away kits, especially when teams have similar colors,’ noted Rhashid Dembe, Football Patron at Kibuli Secondary School.

    Sewaya Ismail, Games Teacher at Kiira College Butiki, praised the quality of the kits, describing them as better than usual and a big motivation for the players.

    ‘We are ready for Jinja College. They’re technically sound, but our focus is on progressing to the Round of 16,’ he added.

    All eyes will be on defending champions Nabumali High School as they open their title defense against Dr. Obolo College Boroboro.

    Last year’s quarterfinalists Mengo SS have their work cut out as they clash with football giants Namilyango College in what promises to be a thriller.

    Kiira College Butiki vs Jinja College is another much-anticipated showdown, with both tournament pioneers setting their sights on a deep run in this year’s tournament, one will have to stay and the other soars.

    From the players, the energy is unmistakable.

    Magogo Shakur Lucky Baggio of Namilyango College expressed his confidence ahead of their fixture.

    ‘We play Mengo SS next. This is the genesis of our story, and we hope to eliminate them.’

    Former champions St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) will take on St. Balikuddembe Mitala Maria, a rematch of last year’s Round of 64 fixture, which SMACK surprisingly lost. Can they rewrite the script this time?

    ‘Being inaugural champions, expectations are high, We want to prove that we are the true champions and that we had all it takes to win St Balikuddembe in the previous edition if we had played both legs.’ said Ronald Malcolm Mugalu, SMACK’s Games Teacher.

    ‘We had to fight through spotkicks against Ndejje SSS in the qualifiers, but we are here to prove ourselves. That wasn’t our full potential,’ he added

    Meanwhile, Kibuli SS, who are yet to concede a goal this edition, aim to reach the Round of 16 for the first time in their FUFA TV Cup history. Their hurdle? A tough Kololo SSS side also hungry for glory.

    ‘Kibuli SS is a strong side, but we are up to the task. We’ll deliver a solid performance,’ promised Kisakye Ambrose, Assistant Captain of Kololo SSS.

    Pictorial of handover

    Individual fixtures

  • Transformative Chan 2024 Experience in Final Preparations

    Transformative Chan 2024 Experience in Final Preparations

    With just days to go before kick-off, Uganda’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) is racing to ensure that every fan, team and visitor will feel the unique spirit of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

    Over the next seven days, Uganda’s capital and host city, Kampala, is set to wear a fresh new look as CAF branding teams arrive to transform key sites ahead of the opening match in Group C.

    ‘Within the next week, the city, partner hotels, airport, training grounds and Namboole Stadium will all have a new feel,’ said Dr. Dennis Mugimba, Chairperson of the Communications and Signage Subcommittee of the CHAN/AFCON LOC.

    Mugimba reassured stakeholders that although other CAF tournaments like WAFCON have been running simultaneously using the same service providers and all hands are now on deck to deliver the final touches that will guarantee an unforgettable experience for teams and fans alike.

    The LOC confirmed that participating teams will start arriving next week, well ahead of the standard 72-hour pre-match deadline. Uganda’s Group C fixtures will see the Cranes face Algeria, Guinea, Niger and South Africa with the hosts determined to advance from the group stages for the first time in seven attempts.

    All training facilities including Wankulukuku, Kadiba, Kyambogo, Kisu and the iconic Mandela National Stadium Namboole are fully prepared to host top-level matches.

    While Namboole offers ample parking, the LOC is coordinating with public transport operators to ease fan access and minimise congestion on match days.

    Ticket pricing proposals have been submitted to CAF and final rates will be announced soon by CAF with assurances that tickets will be accessible for every fan, from the ordinary supporter to VVIP guests.

    To boost fan engagement, over 400 volunteers have been trained at Namboole and Lugogo and fan zones will be set up across the country alongside a trophy tour to share the excitement nationwide.

    At least 90 VIP vehicles, previously used during major summits, will be deployed to ensure seamless hospitality for all official guests.

    Mark Namanya, the communications lead at the CHAN/AFCON Local Organising Committee called for continued support towards the tournament.

    ‘This is historic. Never has a continental tournament been hosted by three countries. Our call to all of you is to support the tournament and endorse it in the best way possible,’ he said.

    Ahmed Hussein, the FUFA Director of Communications, who also doubles as a member of the communications and signage committee, shared details on how media access to the venues will be.

    ‘Coverage of the tournament is by accreditation. The process was completed and we did our best to ensure that as many journalists as possible were accredited,’ he said.

    ‘As media, you cannot cross to areas not specified. The first stop for the members of the media is the Media Centre,’ he added.

  • Uganda Cranes Bounce Back Against Senegal and Wrap Up 3 Nations Tournament with a Win

    Uganda Cranes Bounce Back Against Senegal and Wrap Up 3 Nations Tournament with a Win

    Uganda Cranes ended their journey in the 3-nations tournament with a 2-1 win against Senegal today at Black Rhino Academy Stadium in Karatu, Tanzania.

    This was the last match in the tournament and it served as preparation for the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024. The first half ended in a goalless draw before Arnold Odong put the Uganda Cranes in the lead in the 64th minute. Jude Semugabi was fouled in the 18-yard box in the second half and Patrick Jonah Kakande converted the penalty in the 67th minute to give Uganda Cranes a 2-1 lead.

    S.M.Koite pulled one back for Senegal in the 88th minute, but it wasn’t enough to take the win away from Uganda Cranes.

    Uganda Cranes Coach Morley Byekwaso reacted to the team’s performance, highlighting the positives from the game.

    ‘We played well and concluded the tournament with a win, although we lost to Tanzania in the opening game.
    We have learned a lot of lessons from the tournament but our major aim was to see how our players in different positions can connect.’

    ‘We want to go back home and assess areas that need improvement. By the end, we will be ready to face CHAN and we have to ensure there is no room for mistakes.’

    Goal scorer Anorld Odong commented, ‘We came ready and prepared. We wanted to identify areas for improvement, and we worked on them and we still do. The competition is stiff and everyone wants to earn the coaches’ trust to make it to the starting lineup.’

    Odong reflected on the overall tournament, saying, ‘It has provided us with a sufficient test. Although we fell to Tanzania, the team performed well overall. We worked on the mistakes we made in the first game.’

    ‘As a player, it’s an honour to play for the Uganda Cranes for the first time, and I’m happy I scored on my debut. I’m looking forward to being consistent,’ he added.

    Odong believes there is a lot they need to learn and promised Ugandans that they would make the most of the TotalEnergies 2024 tournament.

    The team is preparing to return home as they continue their preparations for their first game against Algeria on 4th August 2025.

    Team in camp

    Deo Mutabazi – Leader of Delegation, Paul Put – Head Coach, Morley Byekwaso – Coach, Muhumuza Fred – Coach, Mandon Louis Francois – Performance Coach, Koukouras Petros – Video Analyst, Kiggundu Stephen Billy – Goalkeeping Coach, Massa Geofrey – Team Coordinator, Nakabago Emmanuel – Doctor, Ssewanyana Ivan – Physiotherapist, Mulondo Samuel – Kit Manager, Bashir Ibrahim -Team Media Officer and Kazibwe Ashirah – FUFA Tv Production.

    Pictorial

  • CHAN Dreams, Family Legacy: Ssebagala and Usama Inspired by Brothers to Shine for Uganda Cranes

    CHAN Dreams, Family Legacy: Ssebagala and Usama Inspired by Brothers to Shine for Uganda Cranes

    As the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) draws closer, two young stars Enock Ssebagala of Vipers SC and Usama Arafat of KCCA FC are eyeing their breakthrough on the continental stage, driven by a deep family legacy and inspired by brothers who once flew the Uganda Cranes flag with pride.

    Ssebagala Following in Kaweesa’s Footsteps

    For Enock Ssebagala, the journey to CHAN is more than just national duty; it’s personal. His elder brother Manko Kaweesa, a revered defensive midfielder and former URA FC captain, was a key figure in Uganda’s historic debut at CHAN 2011 in Sudan. Despite the Cranes failing to advance from a tough group that included Algeria, Sudan and Gabon, Kaweesa left a lasting impression that continues to echo through Enock’s rising career.

    ‘I am happy that my brother was summoned to the national team, it’s a proud moment,’ said Kaweesa.

    ‘If you’re recognized among over 40 million Ugandans, you must be grateful. CHAN is a tough tournament since everyone wants to turn professional and that means life-changing opportunities. I urge Ssebagala to focus, be disciplined, and score goals. If Uganda reaches the final, the entire squad will attract international attention,’ he added.

    Motivated by his brother’s journey, Ssebagala is eager to step into the same spotlight and take the family legacy even further.

    ‘It’s a big opportunity to be called up for CHAN, and I thank God for this blessing,’ said Ssebagala.

    ‘To me, it’s a major achievement. My brother has inspired me a lot, and I hope to build on what he started in 2011. I want to represent my country and make my family proud.’

    Ssebagala’s stock has risen rapidly. Last season, he was one of the standout performers in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League while at NEC FC, playing a pivotal role in the club’s impressive second-place finish in their debut top-flight campaign. His performances earned him a move to Vipers SC and subsequently a place on the national radar.

    Although he didn’t feature during Uganda’s CHAN qualifying doubleheader against Burundi last December, he remained patient. That patience paid off with a senior Cranes debut in a recent friendly against Gambia, where he came on as a substitute for Bobosi Byaruhanga in a game that ended 1-1. It was an emotional and proud moment for the 23-year-old midfielder.

    Now, with the CHAN tournament set to be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania from 2nd August to 30th August 2025 on the horizon, Ssebagala is hungry for more, despite fierce midfield competition from players like Shamir Kimwero, Marvin Youngman, Abdu Watambala and Joel Sserunjogi.

    ‘God is everything in my journey, but I’ve also worked hard, listened to coaches, and stayed focused on teamwork,’ Ssebagala added.

    ‘That’s been key to my growth.’

    Usama Arafat: Inspired by Watenga’s Gloves to Make His Own Mark

    Just like Ssebagala, KCCA FC winger Usama Arafat is writing his own story with inspiration drawn from his elder brother, Isima Watenga, a decorated goalkeeper who featured in the 2016 CHAN tournament in Rwanda and the 2018 edition in Morocco.

    Though they operate in different roles on the pitch, the bond is strong and so is the advice. Watenga has backed his younger sibling from day one, always urging him to rise above the noise and seize big moments like CHAN to elevate his career.

    ‘I’ve always believed in Usama. He’s talented and ready, but now he needs to prove himself on a bigger stage,’ Watenga noted.

    ‘CHAN is the perfect platform. It changed my life and it can change his,’ he added.

    Usama has already shown glimpses of his quality in the Uganda Premier League with KCCA FC, and now he’s determined to follow in his brother’s footsteps this time not from between the sticks, but down the wings with pace, flair and hunger.

    Two Brothers. Two Dreams. One Mission.

    With CHAN 2024 fast approaching, Ssebagala and Usama find themselves on the brink of their biggest footballing moments yet fuelled by their families, driven by ambition and inspired by the legacies they hope to match or even surpass.

    For these two Cranes hopefuls, CHAN isn’t just a tournament it’s the gateway to bigger dreams, with the echoes of Kaweesa and Watenga’s footsteps guiding them every step of the way.

    Uganda’s fixtures at the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024

  • CECAFA 3 Nations Tournament: Learning Curve for Cranes After 1-0 Loss to Tanzania

    CECAFA 3 Nations Tournament: Learning Curve for Cranes After 1-0 Loss to Tanzania

    The Uganda Cranes lost 1-0 to Tanzania today at the Black Rhino Academy Stadium in Karatu, Tanzania. The match was part of the CECAFA 3 Nations Tournament, a competition aimed at preparing teams ahead of the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024.

    Tanzania’s winning goal came from Idd Nado in the fourteenth minute.

    Team captain Allan Okello reflected on the performance saying, ‘It wasn’t an easy game. We lost today but we dominated most of the time. We dominated in the second half and even in the first half.’

    He admitted the team fell short in front of goal. ‘We needed to create more chances. We needed to utilise the ones we got. But it’s a preparation game so we need to keep working hard and improve on our mistakes,’ Okello said.

    Looking ahead, he remained hopeful. ‘The next game will help us understand each other better. We take the positives. Dominating a game away from home isn’t easy. Hopefully in the next game we create more and use the chances we get.’

    Co-head coach Morley Byekwaso also shared his thoughts after the match. ‘The first half wasn’t good. We allowed the Tanzanian defenders to push up and that gave us problems.’

    He praised the team’s response after the break. ‘In the second half we changed. We did not allow them to play and the game shifted in our favour. We created chances but didn’t take them.’

    Byekwaso remains optimistic. ‘That is football. We have learned a lot and we hope to improve in the next game against Senegal. The way the boys pressed in different phases shows we are improving. If we concentrate more on finishing our chances I think we will be a better team in the tournament.’

    Team in camp

    Deo Mutabazi – Leader of Delegation, Paul Put – Head Coach, Morley Byekwaso – Coach, Muhumuza Fred – Coach, Mandon Louis Francois – Performance Coach, Koukouras Petros – Video Analyst, Kiggundu Stephen Billy – Goalkeeping Coach, Massa Geofrey – Team Coordinator, Nakabago Emmanuel – Doctor, Ssewanyana Ivan – Physiotherapist, Mulondo Samuel – Kit Manager, Bashir Ibrahim -Team Media Officer and Kazibwe Ashirah – FUFA Tv Production.

    Pictorial