FUFA is creating a comprehensive Football Player Development Curriculum to boost player growth across all levels in the country.
We want your input. Share your expertise to inform this national curriculum’s content, structure and implementation.
Your input will:
Share your submission via the questionnaire below
Deadline for submission is 6th February, 2026.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) invites applications from eligible Secondary Schools to be accredited as FUFA Schools of Excellence for the year 2026. The Schools of Excellence programme forms part of the FUFA Technical Master Plan and is aimed at identifying, nurturing and developing elite football talent within schools across Uganda while supporting academic education.
The initiative seeks to promote football development alongside academics, create regional pathways for structured talent development and strengthen football culture and performance at school and grassroots levels. Selected schools will serve as regional hubs for talent identification, training, competition and player development in collaboration with the FUFA technical team under the FUFA Player Development Curriculum.
Eligible applicant schools must be registered Secondary Schools with recognised academic accreditation and must demonstrate commitment to football development alongside academic programmes. Schools must be registered or in the process of registering a football academy with FUFA, have safe training facilities and appropriate supervision structures, and be willing to implement FUFA football development objectives under the FUFA Player Development Curriculum. Applicant schools must also demonstrate the ability and eligibility to offer full school bursaries to selected players.
Applications must include a school profile detailing the name, location and head teacher contact details, a list of existing football teams or activities, a description of available facilities, and a proposed plan for implementing FUFA Schools of Excellence activities. Applications must also include a commitment letter from the school governing body, contact details and a brief biography of the School Sports Coordinator or Games Teacher, and a signed declaration committing to full support and implementation of FUFA technical programmes.
All applications must be submitted electronically to admin@fufauganda.com. Applications close on 13th February 2026 at 5:00 pm.
Shortlisted schools will be invited for a screening meeting with FUFA technical representatives. Final selection will be based on readiness, available facilities, demonstrated school commitment and the potential to contribute to the national football talent development pathway through effective implementation of the FUFA Player Development Curriculum.
Selected FUFA Schools of Excellence will receive technical support from FUFA, access to capacity-building programmes, equipment support, inclusion in FUFA talent identification programmes, participation in FUFA-sanctioned competitions and skills clinics, and formal recognition under the FUFA Technical Master Plan.
For further information, please contact Mr Mutyaba Bashir, FUFA Football Development Director, on +256 784 015 092 or via email at bmutyaba@fufauganda.com.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) Football Development Director Bashir Mutyaba has explained the rationale behind the extension of the football academy registration deadline, outlining the broader framework for academy licensing, inspection and elite football development under the FUFA Technical Master Plan.
On the extension of the academy registration deadline
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) extended the football academy registration deadline to ensure that all stakeholders are given adequate opportunity to complete the registration process.
FUFA Football Development Director Bashir Mutyaba explained that although two registration windows had initially been provided, from 1st to 31st July and from 1st to 31st January, a review revealed the need for flexibility.
‘It was important to extend the deadline to give an opportunity to all our stakeholders to register their academies,’ Mutyaba said.
On challenges encountered during registration
Mutyaba noted that the extension was informed by challenges experienced during the registration process, including technical system issues and gaps in information dissemination.
He acknowledged that some key individuals involved in academy operations may not have received timely information, which necessitated additional time for compliance.
‘We looked at the challenges we had, including technical issues with some systems, and the fact that information may not have reached some very important individuals,’ he explained.
On stakeholder response to the extension
The FUFA Football Development Director confirmed that feedback from academy stakeholders has been positive, with many welcoming the extension as an opportunity to regularise their operations.
‘They have been happy because the extension has given room for most of them to actually register their academies,’ Mutyaba said.
On the FUFA Technical Master Plan and elite football development
Mutyaba reiterated that academy registration is a core component of elite football development under the FUFA Technical Master Plan launched in 2023.
He emphasised that academies form a critical talent development environment that must be properly structured and regulated.
‘Registering academies gives us an opportunity to guide them, align them and ensure that we have the right human resource so players are developed in the right environment,’ he noted.
On the shift to online registration
FUFA transitioned to an online academy registration system to improve efficiency, accessibility and cost effectiveness for stakeholders.
According to Mutyaba, the system allows academies to submit documents remotely, creates a centralised database and eliminates the need for physical visits to FUFA headquarters.
‘The online system eases the registration process and helps stakeholders share documents from wherever they are,’ he said.
On academy inspection and the experts panel
FUFA has established a seven-member experts panel tasked with physically inspecting academies and assessing compliance with the required standards.
Mutyaba explained that only academies that meet the set criteria will be evaluated, approved and recommended for licensing.
‘The experts panel will ensure that only academies that qualify and meet the necessary requirements are recommended,’ he stated.
On the legal framework and licensing
The academy registration and inspection process is guided by the National Sports Act, which mandates the National Council of Sports to licence sports academies.
FUFA has been given the authority to approve and recommend football academies that meet the requirements for licensing by the National Council of Sports.
On academy categorisation and the talent pathway
Mutyaba outlined the four-tier academy structure introduced by FUFA, with the National Football Academy at the apex, managed by FUFA.
This is followed by Grade 2 Academies operated by Uganda Premier League clubs and private entities, Grade 3 regional academies and Schools of Excellence, and Grade 4 foundation academies at community level.
‘This grading system allows us to identify and nurture talent from the district level up to the National Academy,’ he explained.
On support and compliance
To support academies throughout the process, FUFA has appointed an Academy Licensing and Compliance Officer to handle correspondence, provide guidance and respond to stakeholder queries.
Mutyaba said the role is aimed at simplifying registration and ensuring continuous engagement with academies.
‘This will help academies navigate the requirements and ensure compliance with ease,’ he concluded.
FUFA has announced the appointment of the FUFA Academy Experts Panel, comprising experienced professionals in football development.
The panel will review applications, conduct onsite technical visits and provide a final report on compliant and successful applicants.
Panel Members
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has successfully conducted the draw for the Stanbic Uganda Cup round of 64, setting the stage for competitive fixtures scheduled to be played between 4th and 10th February 2026.
The draw took place on Wednesday, 28th January 2026 at Protea Hotel Kampala as the competition entered the round of 64 stage in its 52nd edition, continuing its tradition as Uganda’s most inclusive football tournament.
Speaking at the draw, the FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Nakiwala Florence Kiyingi, highlighted the continued growth and importance of the competition.
‘We are very grateful as the football fraternity and the sponsors, Stanbic Bank and Plascon Uganda, for the journey they have moved with us so far. We have grown from 316 to 333 clubs participating and we are proud of the growth,’ she said.
‘The Uganda Cup remains the most inclusive competition for men. We thank the defending cup winners Vipers SC for setting the bar high. Any team that intends to take the trophy must match their performance. A total of UGX 180 million is available in rewards, with the winners taking UGX 50 million, and each participating team will walk away with something,’ she added.
The round of 64 draw was conducted by Umar Ssenoga, a former Uganda Cup winner with Express FC in 1991 and 1992, and later with KCCA FC in 1993, adding historical significance to the occasion.
FUFA Competitions Director, Hajati Aisha Nalule, was also in attendance and oversaw the draw process to ensure compliance with competition regulations.
The steady rise in participation numbers shows the tournament’s growth, with 308 teams featuring in the 49th edition, 312 teams in the 50th edition, 316 teams in the 51st edition and a record 333 teams in the ongoing 52nd edition.
Further details regarding match venues and kick-off times will be communicated in due course.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has confirmed that the draw for the 52nd Edition of the Stanbic Uganda Cup round of 64 will be conducted on Wednesday, 28th January 2026.
The draw will take place at Protea Hotel Kampala starting at 9.00 am as the competition officially enters the round of 64 stage in its 52nd edition.
A total of 64 clubs will be involved at this stage, including Uganda Premier League sides, FUFA Big League teams, representatives from regional competitions and a non-league team across the country.
Further details regarding fixtures, match dates and venues will be communicated after the conclusion of the draw.
Teams participating in this edition
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has extended the deadline for football academy registration to 13thFebruary 2026, as part of efforts to professionalise youth football development in Uganda, in accordance with Statutory Instrument (SI) 24 of 2025.
FUFA is committed to enhancing youth football development in Uganda through this initiative.
In a communication dated 26th January 2026, FUFA encourages all stakeholder to submit required documents online. The registration process is now more accessible with electronic forms, reducing the need for physical visits to FUFA Headquarters.
Academies that pass inspection will be recommended to the National Council of Sports for licensing, as per SI 24 of 2025, Part IX, Regulation 29(2).
The most important dates for the exercise are; application deadline set for 13th February, 2026, inspection of academies on 14th February 2026 and FUFA Certificate issuance to academies on 13th March 2026.
FUFA has also designated a member of staff to handle this exercise and for inquiries, contact Mr. Muleekezi Reagan on +256 763 844 828.
https://services.fufa.co.ug/form-af204-management-staff-registration-form
https://services.fufa.co.ug/form-af201-academy-licensing-application-form
https://services.fufa.co.ug/form-af205-child-player-registration-form
https://services.fufa.co.ug/form_af_202_academy-ownership-declaration-application-for-registration
FUFA wishes to inform members of the sports media that the application process for accreditation to cover the FIFA U20 Women World Cup Qualifier match Uganda vs Zambia at FUFA Stadium Kadiba on the 7th February 2026 is now open via the FUFA Media Channel on https://fufauganda.com/media/login/
You are kindly advised to log into your respective accounts to apply.
Application ends on 2nd February 2026 at 1200Hrs
If you don’t have the account yet, please follow the procedures for registration https://fufauganda.com/media/signup before you apply.
Uganda National Women’s football teams’ head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes has summoned the Queens Cranes squad to start preparations for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
Uganda is set to host the first fixture of the two legged affair against Zambia on 7th February 2026 at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba with the second leg scheduled set for 14th February 2026 in Zambia.
The winner on aggregate after the two legs will advance to the next round of the qualifiers.
The squad of 32 players will convene on Saturday morning 24th January 2026 at FUFA House in Mengo at 9am and later travel to the FUFA Technical Centre Njeru for residential camp.
The squad in full:
Goalkeepers:
Nakirya Lillian (St. Noa Girls), Adeke Angella (Amus College WFC), Nambuya Josephine (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Chebet Charity ( Uganda Martyrs Ladies WFC)
Defenders:
Natooro Desire Katisi (Kenya Police Bullets FC -Kenya), Anomo Barbara (St. Noa Girls), Namboozo Hasifah Patricia (Makerere University WFC), Nambozo Zabinah (Amus College WFC), Nanyanzi Patricia Nakato (Rines SS WFC), Babirye Martha (El Cambio), Babirye Patricia (Bunya SSC), Kadondi Ritah (UCU Lady Cardinals FC), Atyeronimungu Vicky (Amus College WFC), Katusiime Charity (Amus College WFC)
Midfielders:
Nolla Angella (Great Falls Reston Girls –USA), Nabukenya Agnes (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Namutebi Krusum (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kasemire Imelda (St. Noa Girls), Najjuma Shamusa (Kampala Queens WFC), Nayiga Patricia (St. Noa Girls), Kisakye Dorcus (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Wandera Dorine (Amus College WFC), Nalumu Sumaya (Kampala Queens WFC), Muduwa Peace (Kampala Queens WFC), Kasango Shakirah (St. Noa Girls FC), Phionah Arach (Rines SS WFC), Auki Angel Kigongo (Uganda Martyrs WFC), Mungutimu Sherinah (Boniconsili Girls FC)
Strikers:
Kabene Sylvia (Herbernian FC – Malta), Katono Mary (She Corporate FC), Nalukwago Yasmeen (Rines SS WFC), Nakintu Nusulah (Uganda Martyrs WFC)
Team Officials
Sheryl Ulanda Botes- Head Coach
Ahumuza Collins- 1st Assistant Coach
Nantumbwe Sharifah- 2nd Assistant Coach
David Ribeiro- Goalkeeper coach
Sebuliba George-Goalkeeper coach
Sefika Pelin Bal-Sports Scientist
Nsubuga Allan Magunda- Video Analyst
Nkata Moses- Sorts Scientist
Kabatalindwa Mable- Team Doctor
Nkuya Jackline- Physiotherapist
Namusisi Joan –Team Manager
Nakiguba Cissy Gaudensia-Equipment Manager
Namutebi Aminah- Team Media Officer
Job Title: Research Assistant
Location: FUFA Offices, Kampala
Application Deadline: 30th January 2026, 17:00hrs
Job Summary
FUFA is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to support our team.
The successful candidate will assist in gathering and analysing data, preparing reports and providing administrative support.
Requirements:
How to Apply:
Send your application, including your CV and cover letter, to vacancy@fufauganda.com before the deadline.
It is Our Game, It is Our Country.
In the wee hours of the morning of 19th Jan 2026 in the chilly weather of Rabat, I kept turning in my bed accepting that:
Despite achieving historic milestones as the Federation President including but not limited to the following;
1. Taking Uganda Cranes back to AFCON after 40 years (and now 4 times in 10 years) taking the Crested Cranes back to AWCON after 22 years
2. Building a stadium owned by the Federation that hosts Cat 4 CAF International matches
3. Starting and operating a Satellite TV Channel and FM Radio owned by the Federation that now produces and airs the Uganda Premier League when no media house was willing to invest
4. Qualifying various national teams 20 times to continental finals including taking the U20 national team to 2 Continental Finals
5. Taking the U17 national team to stellar performances at Uganda’s first World Cup ever
6. Hosting the first continental competition in Uganda (CHAN)
7. Personally legislating to create direct government funding of national teams
8. Personally legislating the Private members’ bill to create the 2023 National Sports Act
9. Causing Government to renovate and construct international standard stadiums in Namboole, Hoima, and Akii Bua with over 12 training facilities and FUFA donating 24 acres of land of the 34 Acres where Hoima Stadium is built
10. Starting and Providing Medical Insurance for the players and referees of the top men and women leagues in Uganda
11. Stabilizing governance structures of FUFA that neutralised football wars to allow football development take place;
None of the above makes me as emotional as realizing the dream of bringing AFCON to Uganda in my lifetime.
Welcome the World, Welcome Africa to East Africa in general and to our motherland Uganda in particular.
Karibuni Africa Mashariki
Pamoja ni uwezo
Allah Akbar
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim
FUFA President-Uganda
MP Budiope East
The CAF flag for the 2027 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations was ceremonially handed over after the final of AFCON 2025 in Morocco, marking the symbolic transition to the PAMOJA host nations of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Present during the ceremony were the President of the Tanzania Football Federation Wallace Karia and the President of the Football Kenya Federation Mohammed Hussein, representing the PAMOJA countries alongside FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
Also present were senior government officials including Tanzania’s Minister of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Hon. Paul Makonda and Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi. Uganda was represented by the State Minister for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang.
In a personal statement reflecting on the significance of the moment, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim shared his emotions following the ceremony in Rabat.
‘In the wee hours of the morning of 19th January 2026, in the chilly weather of Rabat, I kept turning in my bed accepting that despite achieving historic milestones as the Federation President, none compares to this moment.’
He outlined several milestones achieved during his tenure, including returning the Uganda Cranes to the Africa Cup of Nations after 40 years and now qualifying four times in ten years, as well as guiding the Crested Cranes back to the Africa Women Cup of Nations after 22 years.
He highlighted the construction of a FUFA-owned stadium capable of hosting CAF Category Four international matches and the establishment of a satellite television channel and FM radio station owned by the Federation, which now produces and airs the Uganda Premier League when no media house was willing to invest.
He further referenced the qualification of various national teams to continental finals on twenty occasions, including taking the U20 national team to two continental finals, and leading the U17 national team to stellar performances at Uganda’s first ever FIFA World Cup.
He also cited hosting the first continental football competition in Uganda through CHAN, personally legislating for direct government funding of national teams, and sponsoring a Private Member’s Bill that led to the enactment of the 2023 National Sports Act.
Hon. Magogo noted the role FUFA played in driving government investment in stadium infrastructure, including renovations and construction at Namboole, Hoima and Akii Bua, supported by more than twelve training facilities, with FUFA donating twenty four acres of land towards the Hoima Stadium project.
He added that the introduction of medical insurance for players and referees in the top men and women leagues, as well as the stabilisation of FUFA governance structures that neutralised football conflicts, were key achievements during his leadership.
‘None of the above makes me as emotional as realising the dream of bringing AFCON to Uganda in my lifetime.’
He concluded with a message of welcome and unity ahead of the 2027 tournament.
‘Welcome the world. Welcome Africa to East Africa in general and to our motherland Uganda in particular.’
‘Karibuni Africa Mashariki.’
‘Pamoja ni uwezo.’
‘Allah Akbar.’
The draw will be live on CAF TV from 13h00 local time (12h00 GMT / 14h00 Cairo time) and begin the journey to the next continental finals, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
A total of 12 teams will take part in the Preliminary Round, which contains the lower placed sides in the latest FIFA World Rankings, while the remaining 42 nations have qualified directly for the group stage of the qualifiers.
The 12 teams, in ranking order, are Lesotho, Burundi, Ethiopia, Eswatini, South Sudan, Mauritius, Chad, São Tomé and Príncipe, Djibouti, Somalia, Seychelles and Eritrea.
Structure of the preliminary round
The preliminary round will see the 12 teams divided into two Pots. The six highest-ranked teams in Pot 1 will face the six lowest-ranked teams in Pot 2, with the first leg of each tie played at the home venue of the lower-ranked team.
Pot 1 (Highest Ranked Teams)
Lesotho, Burundi, Ethiopia, Eswatini, South Sudan, Mauritius
Pot 2 (Lowest Ranked Teams)
Chad, São Tomé and Príncipe, Djibouti, Somalia, Seychelles, Eritrea
Draw mechanics
The first team drawn from Pot 1 will play against the first team drawn from Pot 2, with the same procedure repeated until all six pairings have been determined.
Following the conclusion of the preliminary round, the six winning teams will advance to join the 42 highest-ranked nations in the draw for the Group Stage matches of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2027 Qualifiers.
For more on the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027, visit www.cafonline.com.
Further Inquiries:
First posted on CAF Website
The Investigatory Chamber of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has imposed a provisional 90-day suspension on three players of Buhimba United Saints FC, arising from their potential involvement in the manipulation of football results.
The sanctions arise from an investigation into the match played between Lugazi FC and Buhimba United Saints on 08/11/2025, which, according to the information gathered so far by the investigation, indicates that it was manipulated for betting purposes.
Following receipt of information about the alleged manipulation of the match, the Investigatory Chamber commenced an investigation into the match. The evidence obtained so far indicates a potential involvement of the provisionally sanctioned players. Formal investigation proceedings for potential violation of Article 43 of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code (Manipulation of Football Matches or Competitions) have been opened.
The conduct of the individuals involved appears to be a violation of the criminal provisions of the National Sports Act, and the matter will be reported to the Uganda Police.
In accordance with Section 78 of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Code, the Chairperson of the Investigatory Chamber of the FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee decided to provisionally suspend the players pending the completion of the investigation to protect the integrity of the competition.
The following players have been sanctioned:
Each of the players has been personally notified of this decision. The suspensions take effect immediately.
FUFA Drum Match-Day Five concluded with West Nile emerging as the only side to register a victory, while the remaining three fixtures ended in evenly contested draws across the weekend.
At Mbale Municipal Stadium on Saturday, West Nile delivered a composed performance to defeat Bugisu 2-0, securing the crucial three points they needed. Sadat Anaku and Moses Ocoman found the back of the net to condemn Bugisu to yet another defeat, leaving them winless and pointless in Group A.
The result propelled West Nile to six points, a tally that sees them join Acholi in the quarterfinals.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Kampala Province finally got off the mark in Group D after grinding out a 1-1 draw away to Tooro. Eric Tumwine put the hosts ahead, but Tekakwo James responded to earn Kampala their first point of the campaign.
Despite the draw, Tooro advanced to the last eight with six points, while Kampala remain bottom of the group with just one point.
Sunday’s action produced two more stalemates. In Group B, Buganda and reigning champions Lango shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw. Emmanuel Oketch handed Lango an early lead in the 25th minute, but George Kaddu scoring for the second match running restored parity for Buganda just before the break.
Buganda now sit on six points, with Lango close behind on five.
The Group C encounter between Busoga and Bunyoro also ended level. Dickson Matama struck early to give Busoga the advantage in the 15th minute, only for Agondeza to equalise for Bunyoro later in the contest.
Busoga moved to five points, while Bunyoro climbed to four as the group remains finely balanced.
FUFA has received official confirmation that Ugandan match officials have been included on the FIFA Refereeing International Lists for 2026.
The confirmation recognises the continued progress of refereeing standards in Uganda and reflects the sustained investment by FUFA in referee development, assessment and international exposure.
Uganda will once again be represented across different refereeing categories, enabling the selected officials to officiate at FIFA and CAF competitions during the 2026 international season.
The FUFA Referees Committee has continued to prioritise training, fitness, integrity and performance management, with regular local and international courses aimed at aligning Ugandan referees with global standards.
Referees
Kasalirwe Lucky Razake
Nabadda Shamirah
Okello Dick
Murungi Diana
Oloya William
Nantongo Josephine
Duula Joshua
Olemu George
Assistant Referees
Katenya Ronald
Ongiera Immaculate
Okudra Emmanuel
Nassolo Elizabeth
Mulindwa Hakim
Mutonyi Jane
Musisi Brianson
Nantabo Lydia Wanyama
Katerega Ashraf
Nayebare Babrah
Magoola Ashraf
Futsal Referees
Nsubuga Brian Emmy
Sengendo Isaac
Beach Soccer Referees
Kintu Ivan Bayige
Ssenteza Muhammad
Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy
Munyendoh Joel Chote
The year 2025 stands as a defining chapter in the history of Ugandan football. Across governance, international competition, youth and schools football, domestic leagues, technical leadership, officiating, awards and infrastructure, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations recorded milestones that strengthened Uganda’s position on the continental and global stage.
Uganda co-hosts CHAN 2024
Uganda successfully co-hosted the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship 2024 alongside Kenya and Tanzania under the Pamoja East Africa framework. The tournament marked a major organisational milestone for FUFA and demonstrated the country’s readiness to host large-scale continental competitions.
The championship was characterised by strong fan engagement, with Ugandan supporters turning up in large numbers and creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcased the nation’s football passion across all host venues.
Historic CHAN quarterfinal qualification
The Uganda Cranes delivered a historic campaign at CHAN 2024 by qualifying for the quarterfinals for the first time. The achievement represented a breakthrough for the senior national team in the competition and underlined the progress of locally based players.
Uganda Cranes at AFCON 2025
The Uganda Cranes returned to Africa’s biggest football stage by qualifying for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco. The team competed with resilience in a challenging group and gained valuable continental experience.
FIFA World Cup qualification campaign
In the FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, the Uganda Cranes finished as group runners-up, reflecting competitive consistency and continued growth against strong opposition.
Historic year for youth football
Youth football reached unprecedented heights in 2025. The Uganda Cubs qualified for the FIFA U17 World Cup and progressed to the round of 16, marking one of the most significant achievements in the country’s youth football history.
The campaign was led by head coach Brian Ssenyondo, who became the first coach to guide Uganda to a FIFA World Cup, a landmark moment in the nation’s football journey.
In addition, Uganda secured qualification for the CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 under the guidance of Laryea Kingston, the Men’s Youth National Teams Head Coach, reinforcing sustained progress in youth development pathways.
CAF African Schools Football Championship
Uganda played a central role in the CAF African Schools Football Championship in 2025, both as host and competitor.
Uganda hosted the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, where the Uganda Boys U15 team were crowned champions after defeating Ethiopia on penalties and qualified for the continental finals. The Uganda Girls U15 team finished third after defeating Burundi in the bronze medal playoff.
At the continental finals in Accra, St Noa Girls School Zzana finished runners-up and won the silver medal, while St Mary’s Kitende finished fourth in the boys’ category. Ugandan players also earned multiple individual awards, highlighting the strength of schools football development.
FUFA leadership and technical direction
The year reinforced stability in football governance as FUFA President Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo was re-elected for another term, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategic direction.
At senior technical level, the contract of Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put was renewed, reflecting confidence in his leadership and technical vision. At youth level, FUFA continued to strengthen its technical structure under Laryea Kingston as Men’s Youth National Teams Head Coach.
Continental recognition
Uganda received major continental recognition in 2025 as a Ugandan referee was named CAF Best Female Referee, highlighting the country’s growing influence in football officiating.
At institutional level, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, received the CAF President’s Award for Heads of State, recognising his support towards football development, infrastructure growth and the successful hosting of continental competitions.
Domestic football
FUFA successfully organised competitive seasons across all domestic competitions in 2025.
In men’s football, Vipers SC were crowned champions of the Uganda Premier League and the Uganda Cup, Calvary FC won the FUFA Big League, and SC Villa claimed the FUFA Super 8.
In women’s football, Kampala Queens FC won the FUFA Women Super League, Amus College WFC lifted the FUFA Women Cup, and St Noa WFC emerged champions of the FUFA Women Elite League.
In youth and schools football, Vipers SC Junior Team won the FUFA Juniors League, St Mary’s Primary School won the boys’ FUFA Odilo Primary Schools Championship, and Oasis Primary School won the girls’ category.
In indoor and sand football, Mengo Futsal Club were crowned Futsal Super League champions, while Kampala City Beach Soccer Club won the FUFA Beach Soccer League.
Infrastructure development
Significant progress was registered in football infrastructure development during the year.
The Hoima City Stadium project was officially launched by H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Part of the land the stadium sits on was donated to FUFA by the Rujumba family then later transferred to Government.
The official opening of FUFA Stadium Kadiba marked another major milestone, providing a modern venue for national teams, competitions and development programmes.
Looking ahead
As 2025 concluded, FUFA emerged stronger institutionally and competitively. The achievements recorded during the year have laid firm foundations for sustained growth, with focus remaining on youth and schools football, domestic competitions, governance excellence, infrastructure development and international competitiveness.
The Uganda Cranes bowed out of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025 following a 3–1 defeat to Nigeria in their final Group C match played on Monday in Morocco.
Nigeria started the contest with greater control and were rewarded in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu opened the scoring to give the Super Eagles a deserved lead at the break.
Uganda’s task became more difficult early in the second half after substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling the ball outside the penalty area. The dismissal left the Cranes playing with ten men for more than half an hour.
Nigeria capitalised on their numerical advantage as Raphael Onyedika struck twice in quick succession, scoring in the 62nd and 67th minutes to put the result beyond doubt.
Despite the setback, Uganda showed resilience and were rewarded in the 75th minute when Rogers Mato pulled one back after a well-worked move involving Allan Okello. The goal, however, proved to be a consolation as Nigeria saw out the match comfortably.
The result confirmed Uganda’s exit from the tournament at the group stage, while Nigeria finished top of Group C with a perfect record of three wins from three matches.
The Cranes now turn their attention to the future as preparations continue towards AFCON 2027, which Uganda will co-host, with the experience gained in Morocco expected to play a key role in the team’s development.
Lineups
Pictorial
