Ugandan Football referees have today received their FIFA Badges and equipment for the 2024 Calendar yeat
A total of 24 referees from Eleven-aside football, Futsal and Beach Soccer were approved to get FIFA badges this year.
In the function held at FUFA Complex on Wednesday, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim handed over the badges to the referees.
He was flanked by FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Byamukama, FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza and FUFA Referees Standing Committee Chairperson Brian Miiro Nsubuga.
Others who attended the function included Uganda Football Referees Association Acting Chairman David Davis Katabira, Uganda Football Referees Association Delegate to the General Assembly Rosbell Rwamuyamba, FUFA Referees Instructor Catherine Adipo and FUFA Referees Manager Samuel Egesa.
In his address to the referees, the President first reminded the referees about the cardinal principles when executing their duties.
“As referees, you must all times maintain the three core principles that govern your work. That is Fitness, Intergrity and Performance. Without, these you cannot do your work well.” He started.
The President also cautioned the referees about predetermination of games and advised them to always report such cases to the relevant bodies.
“I have received reports that people are using my name to influence you into going against your ethics but I want to make it clear that I have never told anyone to indulge in any predetermining of games. If anyone comes to you with such excuses, please report them.
He also emphasized how tough and ready FUFA is committed to fighting against match fixing.
“You are aware some of your colleagues are serving bans because they were found guilty. I want to assure you that we will continue in the same spirit and please do not be tempted to indulge yourself in such vices.”
The President on the other hand assured the referees of protection in case they are right or commit genuine mistakes.
”We have agreed to protect you whenever you are right and we are proud of those moments you have taken correct decisions. We are all human beings who make mistakes but if someone makes a mistake intentionally then disciplinary measures have to be taken.” The President stressed.
Brian Miiro Nsubuga, the Chairperson of FUFA Referees Standing Committee told the referees to seize the opportunity and perform their duties with integrity at all times.
”We have given out the FIFA badges to you and we have the belief in you. Go and serve accroding to the principles of refeering. I am confident that this is a determined group that has undergone various trainings and ready to execute their work.” He said.
The function was preceded by a fitness test in the morning at Makerere University for both FIFA Referees and National Elite Referees ahead of the second round of various FUFA sanctioned Competitions that start this week.
Here is a complete list of the 24 Ugandan FIFA Certified Referees 2024;
Male Centre Referees: Ali Sabila Chelangat, Mashood Ssali, William Oloya, Lucky Razaake Kasalirwe and George Olemu
Male Assistant Referees: Ronald Katenya,Hakim Mulindwa, Emmanuel Okudra, Timothy Gumisiriza Karusigarira, Brianson Musisi and Ashiraf Katerega
Futsal Referees: Brian Emmy Nsubuga and Isaac Sengendo
Beach Soccer: Ivan Kintu Bayige, Muhammad Ssenteza, Kennedy Kawagga Bazirio and Joel Chote Munyendoh.
Female Centre Referees: Shamirah Nabadda, Habiba Naigaga and Diana Murungi
Female Assistant Referees: Lydia Nantabo Wanyama, Jane Mutonyi, Elizabeth Nassolo and Immaculate Ongiera
A total of 24 Coaches successfully completed the CAF B Diploma Coaching Course of Wednesday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The course had five modules and started last year with particpants undergoing through both practical and theoratical sessions.
Jackson Nyiima and Livingstone Kyambadde have been the lead instructors taking participants through a range of sessions covering football systems, first aid, media relations and football fitness among others.
During the closing ceremony, Kyambadde who is also the Chairperson of the Uganda Football Coaches Association (UFCA) emphasized the importance of these courses and reminded the participants to always put everything into practice.
“I want to congratulate you upon this mileage and wish you all the best as you go back to your respective teams. Go and put everything into practice to create the best players.” He said.
FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe and FUFA Youth Football Development Manager Bashir Mutyaba also attended the closing ceremony.
The World Football governing body, FIFA has confirmed dates for application and Exams of football agents.
The exams, a pivotal step in obtaining FIFA agent certification, will take place on 22nd May 2024 with application period having started on 9th January to 31st March 2024.
FIFA kindly reminds that all applications are to be submitted on the FIFA Agent platform by interested candidates and will be regularly reviewed by member associations through their user accounts review on the platform.
Further more, there is a reduction in licence fee for continuous licence holders following consultations with the members of the FAWG.
As from 1st October 2024, the licence fee paid to FIFA for all football Agent licence renewals will be reduced to USD 300 for each subsequent licensing period. Those individuals that obtain their football agent licence for the first time will pay the full amount of USD 600 for the first licensing period, with subsequent yearly payments being reduced to USD 300.
Prospective agents are diligently preparing for this opportunity to showcase their expertise and navigate the intricate landscape of player representation in the dynamic world of football.
FUFA has directed Uganda Premier League to hold funds of clubs whose Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) do not meet qualifications.
According to Circular No. 1171, every Club Chief Executive Officer in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League was notified and required to hold a FAMACO II certificate with effect from 1st January 2024.
Of the 16 teams playing in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League only ten have CEOs that meet the set qualifications.
These are;
Joseph Mutaka – BUL FC Simon Njuba – Vipers SC Anisha Muhoozi – KCCA FC Ashiraf Miiro – Express FC Allan Munaaba – URA FC Arnold Akankwasa – Mbarara City FC Sula Kamoga – Wakiso Giants FC Rodrick Muhumuza – Maroons FC Joshua Atugonza – Kitara FC Jonathan Okorotum – NEC FC
FUFA has noticed that Sports Club Villa, Busoga United FC, Arua Hill SC, Gaddafi FC, UPDF FC and Soltilo Bright Stars FC do not have CEOs that are in compliance with circular No. 1171
In order to enforce the club licensing compliance requirements, the six above mentioned clubs are required to immediately have qualified personnel as club CEOs and consequently make the hired CEOs principal signatories to the respective club bank accounts that receive payments from UPL for value attached from the sale of league rights.
The deadline for this is 31st January 2024. No club will receive funds from Uganda Premier League from the sale of the league rights without complying to this directive.
It should be noted that FUFA has so far organised the 1st and 2nd editions of the Football Administration and Management Course (FAMACO) Level II to address the needs of the above directive.
CAF B Diploma Coaching Course that started last year resumed this week with participants undergoing sessions of the third module.
The course resumed on Monday under the tutorship of Instructors Douglas Bamweyana and Jackson Nyiima.
The coaches will go through football fitness aerobic training (endurance) with the ball,basic treatment of injuries,basic injury prevention, fitness programs, football fitness, emotional development, handling pressure/stress, muscle training and training drills among others.
“We are here for the 3rd module of the CAF B Diploma Coaching Course and the participants are undergoing both theory and practical sessions. Most importantly the coaches attitude is good as they are willing to learn through discussions, sharing and interactions.” Said Instructor Bamweyana.
Simeon Massa on behalf of the participants was pleased with the good level of how the instructors are handling them and is sure they are learning the new modern football trends.
The current module that started on Monday 8th and will end on Friday 12th January 2024.
The second edition of FAMACO II targeting Club CEOs of UPL and FWSL as well as regional Football Association General secretaries, ended at a graduation event held at Jevine Hotel, Kampala.
The ceremony was graced by Justus Mugisha (First FUFA Vice President), Ronnie Kalema (FUFA Executive Secretary), Kizza Decolas (FUFA Deputy CEO), and Ali Mwebe (FUFA Football Development Director).
Njuba Simon Peter and Kairungi Stellah Otika Salma emerged as the best male and female students respectively.
The instructors included Jamil Ssewanyana, Waiswa Ali, Kiiza Decolas, Counsel Dennis Lukambi, Ali Mwebe, Catherine Adipo W. Constanse, Mutyaba Bashir, Rogers Byamukama and Babra Irakiza.
The FAMACO II has been designed to enhance participants’ knowledge and abilities in football leadership and management. It specifically focuses on strengthening and refining the soft and hard skills needed to succeed in an influential role in the football industry.
My successful completion of this course demonstrates my commitment to honing my skills in football administration and management.
I am sure my newly acquired knowledge and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of BUL Football Club, as well as benefit the broader football community in Uganda.
Joseph Mutaka, BUL Football Club CEO
List of graduands
Njuba Simon Peter
Sengendo Isaac
Asiimwe Moses
Kairungi Stellah Otika Salma
Abdul Kawuulu Mwanje
Ssemeere Asadu
Isaac Serwanga Lwanga
Kamoga Sula
Muhumuza Rodrick Chandi
Mutaka Joseph
Freda Ayerango
Gulere Daniel
Muwanguzi Joel
Mambo Walter
Nyamwiza Brendah
Mutebi Julius
Nakirijja Aisha
Mushabe Akankwasa Arnold
Ssejjemba Brian
Bitonde Michael Kirunga
Munaaba Allan
Ekaju Daniel
Keuber Moses
Musiimenta Edmund
Muhoozi Anisha Shahir
Turyomuriwe Samuel
Miiro Ashraf
Okorotum Jonathan
Joel Gadafi
Otika Edward
Lukoki Jessy
Nambafu Justine
Angeyango Scovia
Bogere Meshach
Atugonza Joshua
Kayima Huzairu
Bulega Sadam
Naigaga Aisha-Latifah
Sseninde Jean
Nabulobi Mercy
Ssengendo Meddy
Nakambugu Joan
Masembe Daniel Nteyafa
Events
Call for application – 22nd June 2023
Applied 57 and 54 met the criteria
Pre-entry exam 24th July 2023
54 did pre-entry and 40 passed
4 who missed some modules in 1st edition joined for those missed modules to make 44
After a two-weeks’ hiatus, 25 coaches mainly those serving Women Football reported back on Monday for the second phase of their CAF B Diploma Coaching Course at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The course started on 27th November 2023 but the coaches were sent back to their respective clubs for an internship study.
The coaches will now enter stage two of the course that puts emphasis on media and communication especially with players.
They will also learn about game plan and game analysis during practical and theory sessions.
Furthermore, the coaches will receive training on giving players time and freedom to make their own decisions on the pitch before breaking off again on Friday.
The course is being run under the tutorship of CAF instructors Livingstone Kyambadde and Jackson Nyiima.
“The coaches are back for the CAF B programme.They had broken off for some days but they’re now back from the internship and we believe the second phase is equally important in equipping them with more knowledg.” Instructor Kyambadde said.
The FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe joined 24 other Technical Leaders from around the globe to learn more about Japan’s approach to achieving excellence as part of block two of FIFA’s new Technical Leadership Diploma held in Chiba, Japan, between 4-9 December.
Mwebe explored ‘Kaizen’, the Japanese principle of continuous improvement, during the 6-day workshop that included study visits to Toyota, Sumo Training Stables and the Japanese FA.
Achieving excellence in the areas of Talent ID and Recruitment, Coach Education, National Teams and Quality Assurance was also covered by participants who are undertaking the 18-month long course.
With Mauricio Marques- Brazil- FIFA Coach Education Expert ( Head of our Tutor Group) Tutor group is composed of 6 learners
“The block was an amazing 6 days of learning; I was enriched with professional knowledge and best practices in domains of Talent Identification, Coach education and quality assurance. On the other hand, personal development as a technical leader,” says Ali Mwebe.
FUFA has just launched an ambitious seven (7) year Technical Master Plan; and the technical leadership Diploma just came in the right time because it gives a lot of learning insights from the world’s best tutors and through peer-to peer interactions among us the 25 participants.
Much resources and tools are given via the state-of-the-art learning and resources platform-the FIFA Training Centre. The tools and resources are a basis of best practices all over the world, that can be tailored to our culture and level of football development situation.”
Like block two in Brazil May 2023, Japan has been so amazing. Learning the Japanese culture that is integrated into productivity and continuous/step by step improvement (the Kaizen philosophy), there is no doubt that delivering the FUFA Technical Master plan shall need the ‘Kaizen’ philosophy.
‘One of the factors that have contributed to football transformation is the FUFA’s approach to capacity building. We can only thank FIFA for coming up with this globally recognised Diploma for Technical leader to which our own Ali Mwebe was selected in the pioneer group’ says Edgar Waston, FUFA Chief Executive Officer.
‘Globally recognised qualification’ for Technical Leaders “We were delighted to welcome Ali Mwebe onto block two of our new Technical Leadership Diploma in Japan this week,” says Jamie Houchen, FIFA Head of Technical Leadership.
“Japan has proved to be the perfect location for block two of the Diploma and the focus on achieving excellence.
“The unique Japanese culture and tradition as well as the focus on long-term planning and total quality management allowed all participants to look at what excellence looks like in a different context. Most importantly, there has been a lot of thorough planning and consideration with regards transferring these lessons back into their own associations.”
The FIFA Technical Leadership Diploma aims to become the ‘globally recognised qualification’ for Technical Leaders working in the game and prepares participants for the distinct challenges and opportunities FAced by a Technical Leader within a Member Association. Five core domain areas are covered:
Technical Leadership
High Performance
Coach Education
Amateur Football
Management
All 25 participants listed below received a personal invite to join the programme:
Ricardo Leao – Brazil FA
Aabed Alansari – Bahrain FA
Ross Awa – Guam FA
Indra Sjafri – Indonesia FA
Mohamad Bassem – Lebanese FA
Carles Romagosa – Thailand FA
Bhekisisa Boy Mkhonta – Eswatini FA
Benjamin Kumwenda – Malawi FA
Jaqueline Shipanga – Namibia FA
Walter Steenbok – South African FA
Ali Mwebe – Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA)
Lyson Zulu – Zambia FF
Iván Novella – Colombian FF
Anton Corneal – Trinidad And Tobago FA
Luis Castro – Argentine FA
Stipe Pletikosa – Croatia FF
Kay Cossington – English FA
Janno Kivisild – Estonian FA
Marians Pahars – Latvian FF
Diana Bulgaru – Moldova FA
Andrew Gould – Scottish FA
Lili Bai – Asian Football Confederation
Jayne Ludlow – Manchester City FC
Patricia Gonzalez – FIFA
Buman-Uchral Bold – Mongolian FF
Aldi Iqbal – Indonesia FA
For more information about the FIFA Technical Leadership Diploma click here.
FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson and Finance Director Julian Namuganga have completed a four-day FIFA Financial Governance Workshop in Kigali Rwanda that ended on Thursday 30th November 2023.
FUFA and 13 other Member Associations were taken through the newly created Financial Governance Guide as a framework for executing guidelines and ensure the FIFA funds are spent on intended projects for the reason funds are requisitioned and approved.
The workshop was attended by General Secretaries and Finance Directors from 14 CAF member associations and aimed at further developing their capacity in financial governance and management.
The FUFA CEO is delighted about the opportunity to attend the workshop.
‘We have learnt a lot from the workshop. It is a requirement for us and others to spend the funds properly. Such workshops give us the opportunity to learn new trends and also share our successful stories and hear from other Member Associations. In the end, we pick a leaf for further improvement in handling financial operations at FUFA’ said Edgar Watson.
FIFA has placed the focus on football development in the last seven years, reinvesting the lion’s share of its revenues to grow and develop the game around the world. Since 2016, more than 1,600 projects, representing a total investment of USD 2.8 billion, have been completed in member associations, confederations and zonal/regional associations through the FIFA Forward Development programme. The projects have included national technical centres, youth academies, stadium renovation and the organisation of competitions.
“The newly created Financial Governance Guide is a key instrument to support member associations to improve on different topics where weaknesses were highlighted in previous central audit reviews,” explained Christoph Suppiger, FIFA Head of MA Finance Services. “The Financial Governance Guide contains templates on different topics that the member associations can adapt for their own use and implementation.”
FUFA Finance Director Julian Namuganga believes that the timing of the workshop was perfect.
‘The workshop highlighted general FIFA central review findings and guided the MAs in attendance on how to achieve 100% audit rating. We learnt on how to execute and implement a robust procurement system to achieve value for money’
Gelson Fernandes, FIFA Director Member Associations Africa, added: “Good Financial governance is key for the development of football. Our job is to follow and develop our member associations, and capacity building is one of our pillars. As well as having a close and open working relationship, they can also exchange knowledge among themselves with best practice cases.”
The amount spent has far outstripped FIFA’s increase in revenues in the same period, illustrating the importance of spending every penny wisely, and in the current four-year cycle, FIFA Forward 3.0 will see a 30% increase in the amount made available to member associations and confederations. To help ensure the funds go where they are intended and that member associations get the best value for money, FIFA regularly holds Financial Governance Workshops around the world.
Transformation FUFA Finance Department since 2013
From a volunteering part time Vice President-Finance to a fully-fledged Finance Department, results were bound to be registered. The professionals recruited have helped to record, analyse, advise management and the Executive, forecast and report on the increasing Financial transactions.
• The FUFA Finance Department has five full time professional staff; three holding ACCA/CPA Certification.
• Change of the Financial year from 30th June to January to allow proper and timely auditing
• FUFA now aligns its Financial Year to end from 30th June to 31st December to align with the FIFA Financial Year an enable proper and timely reporting and auditing.
• Growth of Annual turn-over from 4bn shillings to 41 shillings in 2023
• Computerisation of the financial systems integrated through the SunSystems accounting software
• Efficient management system has also resulted into better performance by other functions of FUFA.
• Improved financial reporting processes coupled with period reports to the top Management and Executive
• FUFA undergoes various levels of auditing for the funds received from Government, CAF, FIFA, Sponsors and its partners. This has led to proper financial reporting and accounting.
• Budget discipline is paramount at FUFA to ensure funds are utilised according to plan.
• Since 2018, a compensation framework was passed by the Executive which entails the financial rights and privileges, for the persons and bodies working for FUFA.
• Cost sharing schemes were introduced for training to support many football people, as possible to improve on knowledge and skills.
• The Zero cash policy is mandatory at FUFA and this has bene on since 2016 when FUFA introduced payment through banks for its staff, suppliers, players, delegates, national team coaches, Executive etc
• In 2013, there we outstanding dues for NSSF, PAYE, referees, taxes, ground rate fees, creditors for foods and services. Now, FUFA pays promptly its statutory and regulatory obligations.
• FUFA is also classified by Uganda revenue Authority as a Large tax payer making significant tax contributions under VAT, PAYE and Withholding Tax.
• In 2013, FUFA had not been registered as a VAT Collection entity.
• FUFA has a registered and operational SACCO which averages a monthly collection of 25 million Uganda shillings with a membership of 120 persons and still growing. It currently has made collections worth 1bn Uganda Shillings.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) unveiled the Technical Master Plan during an evening event held at the Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, on Tuesday, 17th October 2023.
The event was attended by the Historical FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, members of the FUFA executive committee, FUFA Delegates, Coaches, former players, and members of the media.
While making the opening remarks, the Deputy CEO in charge of Football, Decolas Kiiza, who represented the FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, emphasised the timeliness of the instrument.
“The Technical Master Plan is very important for several reasons. It is the starting point for our deserved triumph in football,” he said.
Ronnie Kalema, the FUFA Executive Committee Member in charge of Football Development, told the audience that the gathering is a result of an assignment completed and documented to be used for the next seven years. He also thanked the team that worked tirelessly to see it come to life.
The Historical FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, reminded the audience that football is a trinity that consists of money, governance, and sport.
“My administration has excelled in governance and also shown that football can generate money. With the executive, the plan now is to deliver in the sport,” the Historical FUFA President said.
“I want to assure you that the moment is now,” he added.
The President told the audience that what has been delivered is in reference to what FIFA recommends.
“Whatever we have done in this Technical Master Plan was done with reference to FIFA,” he said.
The Special Presidential Assistant for Education and Sports, Karl Gunter Lange, was impressed by the preview of the document that Ali Mwebe, the Football Development Director, presented.
“Congratulations upon this launch. I haven’t read the document, but the preview given by Ali Mwebe is impressive,” he said.
The Guest of Honour at the launch and also Assistant General Secretary at the National Council of Sports, David Katende Semakula, thanked the Federation leadership for transforming the game over the years and believes this is a step in the right direction.
“Congratulations FUFA upon this milestone. This is a move in the right direction,” he said.
“The application of sports science knowledge is the trend today. We cannot do the same things and have better results. What we are doing today is developing a pathway. As government and NCS, it is our hope that it will deliver us to our intended goals. We look forward to its implementation,” he added.
“FUFA beats all other national federations in two things, governance and managing the sport from a modern perspective. This is another significant step, and I hope other federations will adopt it,” he concluded.
The launch follows a process of internal formulation and external stakeholders’ Symposium held on 3rd July 2023 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The FUFA Executive approved the Technical Master Plan on 31st August 2023 and it was presented to the FUFA Assembly on 7th October 2023.
The FUFA Technical Master Plan is the foundation to help develop and improve the quality of football on the field with a specific mission to;
1. Install mass football for all and create a high-performance culture for elite performers.
2. Install a universal playing style for Uganda National Teams and clubs, producing entertaining and purposeful football.
3. Installing Ugandan football players in the world’s topmost leagues.
The beach soccer coaching course organized by Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) began on Tuesday 10th October 2023 at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
It was initially scheduled for July but it was pushed forward due to various reasons. Participants have come from different corners of Africa, with some coming from Kenya and Nigeria.
Nineteen coaches got into the training that is being conducted by FUFA instructor Bashir Mutyaba and everyone is showing the zeal to learn.
Harambee Sand Stars coach Kinero Swaleh
Among the coaches in attendance are; Kinero Swaleh – Harambee Sand Stars head coach, former Sand Cranes head coach – Muwonge Salim, Standard High School – Zzana coach – Mutungi Alleluya, Eng. Ssenfuma Timothy and Lance corporal Kutosi Daniel from UPDF (Gulu barracks).
The course, which is intended to improve the quality of coaches in our local league, will take four days – ending on Friday 13th October 2023.
UBSA chairman Deo Mutabazi
“We organized this course to help us in the new season that kicks off in a few weeks from now and we hope that after here, clubs are going to have the right and licensed coaches,” Chairman UBSA Deo Mutabazi said.
“All of you that are here are going to get certificates and bench permits which will allow you to coach a team.”
“Coaches without bench permits will not be allowed to sit on the bench during games. It’s now a club licensing requirement.”
“These issues of getting someone on the bench to shout out instructions about a game he doesn’t know are now phased out.”
He continued and said: “I want to request you to give this training serious attention because the game is changing on a daily basis and for some of you who have been at the international stage; you have seen how beach soccer is changing.”
“So, take this course seriously, put the right skills into our players so that the country benefits. The players that you are going to give the skills are the very players the national team gets to represent the country.”
“I am sure the time you are going to spend here will not be a waste. Utilize it very well because we want you to add some contribution onto the game.
FUFA 2nd vice president Darius Mugoye (middle)during the opening ceremony
FUFA Second Vice President Darius Mugoye was the Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony, and he reiterated that the federation is firmly focused on making Uganda the based footballing nation in Africa, on and off the field.
The vice president took some time off to applaud the coaches for serving the game diligently but also asked them to make the best use of the knowledge they are getting.
“Beach soccer is one of the fastest growing games not only in Uganda, not only in Africa but in the whole world,” he said.
“And for you choosing to associate yourself with it, I think it’s a very good decision. People normally want to associate themselves with things that have already taken off. They don’t want to be part of the process.”
“But I am very humbled to hear that some people from Kenya, Nigeria are here for the course.”
“Very many times coaches leave the classroom, hide the books and say the thing taught cannot work here, they are for the whites.”
“Therefore, I implore you to practice what is being taught, and at the same time, I officially declare this course opened.”
Instructor Bashir Mutyaba
While in Njeru, the coaches are set to learn ball familiarity, coaching styles, training planning, training session structure, coach’s input during training, psychology and mentality, fitness training for beach soccer, match coaching, match analysis, formations, nutrition, injury prevention and rehabilitation, among others.
List of participants: Kinero Swaleh (Harambee Sand Stars – Kenya NT), Kaddu Steven (Grace Church), Ngalire Geoffrey (Rubaga Youths), Musasizi Abdul Haliki ( Jinja Lions), Kutosi Daniel (Gulu), Lubowa Salim (Jiinja Lions), Kulika Ivan, Tayomba Solomon (Jinja Lions), Eng. Ssenfuma Timothy (Mutoola BSC), Omiat George (Kamuli), Joloba Yusuf (MS Sand Lions), Mutungi Alleluya ( Standard High School – Zzana), Isaac Ishioke (Nigeria), Bisaso Brian, Kimuli Tomasi (Mutoola), Kalanzi Gideon (Mutoola), Kalema Steven (Mutoola), Mukwata Peter Roland (Mutoola) and Muwonge Salim (Mutoola)
FUFA has completed organising a six-day beginners’ course for young referees at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The course is part of the famous two year FIFA League Development programme that was rolled out in 2022 by the world soccer governing body aimed at improving women football globally.
The project is an initiative by FUFA that was presented to FIFA but aimed at developing women league football and other areas of the game in the Country.
This particular course targeted young girls between the age of 15-20 to attract them into refereeing where they learnt skills and got knowledge about officiating matches.
The participants were selected from the eight FUFA regions; Kampala, Buganda, West Nile, Northern, Eastern, Western, North East and Kitara.
A total of thirty-two girls who were taken through the theory and practical sessions of refereeing embraced the training under the guidance of FUFA Referees Instructors Egesa Samuel (Physical Instructor) and Rahma Kizito (Fitness Instructor).
Since 2022, FUFA has benefitted from the FIFA League Development Programme with various activities organised as below;
Beach Soccer in Uganda has continued to take big strides with the growth of the game covering areas of administration, management, national teams and refereeing.
The desire by FUFA and FIFA to help the referees get further technical knowledge of the game has seen the world soccer governing body send French beach soccer referees’ instructor Lakhdar Benchabane to Uganda to handle a group of participants categorized as active referees and referees’ assessors for the FIFA MA Beach soccer referees.
The five-day course that started on Monday 9 th October 2023 has attracted twenty-six beach soccer referees’ instructors and active referees are taking part at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The course ends this Friday.
Uganda Beach Soccer Association Chairman Deo Mutabazi, Buganda region FA Delegate Hassan Kavuma and FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe graced the opening ceremony.
UBSA Charman Deo Mutabazi was the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony and said;
‘The course is very timely for our game in Uganda. It will help us as we continue with preparations for the new season. We thank FIFA and FUFA for the gesture and we believe this is going to improve on the officiating levels in all our competitions. The course will add so much value to the referees due to the modules presented to the participants’
The participants (6 of the 26 are female) will undergo various modules including duties of the time keeper and third referee, opinions and exchange with the referees, among others.
List of participants Ssegawa Moses, Wakayiba Hudson, Ssenvuumo Edrine, Kauma Annet Jackline, Natamba Esther, Wacha Elizabeth Shakira, Ssenteza Muhammad, Joel Chote Munyendoh, Kintu Ivan Bayige, Kadaama Monic, Somoka Roch, Kiragga Edward, Chestit Hakim, Kujjuna Tom, Ssebuliba Edwin, Ndangizi Collins, Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy, Katureebe Andrew, Tiwuwe Eunice, Namugere Bibian, Kato Ian, Mukeshi Micheal, Auma Lydia, Namazzi Miriam, Kimbugwe Hillary Godfrey and David Davies Katabira
About Beach Soccer in Uganda
Started in 2009
FIFA Referees- 4 (Ivan Kintu Bayige, Ssenteza Muhammad, Kawaga Kennedy and Munyendoh Joel Chote).
Beach Soccer trained Referees-20
Beach Soccer Referees’ Instructors-1 (Ali Mwebe-CAF/FIFA Instructor)
Beach Soccer Referees’ Assessors -4 (Hillary Kimbuggwe, David Davies Katabira, Ndawula Muhammad Shaban and Ssebuliba Moses)
FUFA Judicial Bodies on Wednesday held their annual retreat at A’lure Hotel and Suites in Mutundwe with emphasis hinged on creating awareness among the football stakeholders.
The retreat looked at a series of activities covered in the previous year, the current state and the way forward.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim graced the function and was in the company of FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, FUFA EXCO members Sam Mpiima and Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza, Deputy CEO-Services Humphrey Mandu and Deputy CEO-Governance Sam Bakiika.
The President emphasized the importance of having proper governance systems in place and indicated FUFA will make sure the game is protected at all costs.
‘As FUFA we have focused on three areas namely, governance, the sport and football business. However, you cannot have success without systems, structures and regulations. I believe our judicial bodies have done tremendous work and this has helped us to protect the game from the several vices. Definitely, we will continue to tighten the nuts and make sure, there is no room for putting the game into disrepute.’ He said.
Mr. Mugoye who made the opening remarks at the retreat lauded the Judicial Bodies for bringing sanity to the game.
“I want to commend the Judicial Bodies for making sure the game of football is protected. The effective enforcement of rules and regulations has helped us to have sanity and as the Executive, we will offer the necessary support to make sure fairness and integrity prevail at all times.” The Second Vice President indicated.
Dr. Taibu Azar, the chairperson of the FUFA Judicial Commission highlighted the need to sensitize football stakeholders about regulations inorder to mitigate current challenges.
‘We have observed that some of the football stakeholders like players and coaches need to be sensitized about the dangers of taking part in illegal activities like match fixing and doping. So, it would serve better if FUFA takes the initiative of educating them so that they know the repercussions involved.’ She stated.
FUFA Legal Manager Denis Lukambi was impressed with the reduction in the number of cases over the last year.
“There was a great improvement with minimal misconduct of players, coaches and other officials last season. Elements of hooliganism and violence have also greatly reduced. We believe the sanctions and punishments administered have helped to curb the vices and with the new Sports law in place, the culprits will face even tougher penalties.” Lukambi revealed.
The FUFA legal department also unveiled a new innovation called the FUFA Judicial Bodies System, an online portal that will help in delivering justice efficiently.
Once put into use, the system will help in timely reporting and making fast decisions.
Composition of the FUFA Judicial Bodies
Football Disciplinary Panel (Formerly Competitions Disciplinary Panel)
The National Sports Act, as it is called today, first of all, one of the things is to re-appeal the 1964 Sports Act. So, from the assent of the President, the 1964 Act goes on to the shelf. So, we have a new Law in place.
One of the areas addressed is Incorporation of Sports Federations, Organisations and Community Clubs. The situation we have been having is that as a Federation, you are also existing under another Law; for example, the Federation is also a Trustee under the Ministry of lands. The new Law has addressed that. That once you go to the National Council of Sports (NCS) as a Federation and recognised, that creates you into a body corporate that can sue and be sued, own property and be able to trade.
In the Incorporation, there are two sections, there is a Federation and Associations section—of course, the requirements for Federations are higher, but we know that there are Associations that are growing. But as we are aware, there are also community clubs that could not own property until they were another form and they are just simple sports community organisations. So today, what we have created in the new Law is that as a sports community, it can be incorporated to run its business on a constitution, election by the members but also own property, and we believe this will help so many football clubs but also other sports clubs throughout the country. So that is one new change.
The second thing which is fundamental is also to protect the commercial properties of the creators. You know a player, a coach, a club owner come together and create (I will use football as an example) a property which is sold on the market either electronically or by presence, and the Law is actually protecting to ensure that the creators benefit from it. I have heard some people saying that the Federations are going to stop the media, it has never been the objective of the federation to stop the media because they are partners and players in ensuring that we promote this. So, the Law will be a mechanism on how we will operate. Authorisation does not necessarily mean the exchange of money, but let there be authorisation such that the content is carried out in good faith and promotion.
Controlling the vices affecting sports
The other area in the Sports Act is match-fixing which has been a problem. Some people have been arrested or have been implicated in match-fixing situations but there was no Law under which they could be sanctioned as far as the Country is concerned.
We know that the Uganda Police, the Government, has better means in terms of the resources, the tools, the Law but as a Federation all you could do is ban somebody from the sport, but that sometimes, the perpetrators of these acts are not even part of the sport to begin with. So, the new Law makes everybody who is on the land subject to the law. That match-fixing is now criminal at whatever level that you operate and we believe this will expose a number of people and will probably fight the vice.
There is also another issue addressed which is infrastructure. Where the national sports infrastructure had been eaten away and given away in the name of development. With the new law, we are harvesting the ownership of property, sports infrastructure, into the hands of the National Council of Sports—one central body. There will be another pitch to find money to rehabilitate or even create more sports infrastructure but at the moment at least what we have should not be lost further in the name of development.
I want to give a round of applause and thanks to the legal department of FUFA headed by Denis Lukambi because being the Federation lawyer, he did a lot in building the principal proposal of the private members’ bill. Then there is also one staff of Parliament called Tamale Mirundi, son of Mr. Tamale Mirundi, who is a lawyer and employee of Parliament, who did a lot in trying to guide in wording this in the language of Parliament and law. A lot of credit to the office of the Attorney General headed by Hon Kiwanuka Kiryowa and staff thereat. There are a number of people behind the scenes, and I am talking about the technocrats. Then also the staff of Parliament, Counsel Edrine is a clerk for the committee of Education and Sports. Basically, without mentioning names, the technical staff from the Ministry of Education and Sports, National Council of Sports, Office of the Attorney General and the Federations.
And I also want to commend the Committee of Education and Sports which listened to the various sports federations and different stakeholders that came in to shape the law the way it is today. Most importantly, I want to thank the cooperation I got from the Minister of State of sports, Honourable Peter Ogwang, the National Council of Sports leadership, Commissioner at the Ministry of Education and Sports in charge of physical education. I want to thank the Parliament itself starting from the Rt. Hon. Speaker, the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Hon. Basalirwa who was the seconder of the motion, and the Members of Parliament for the various debates to shape the law.
By the time the law comes out like this, there are too many people who have contributed to it and it would be wrong for me to think I can thank them one by one and be able not to miss anybody. I want to thank most sincerely the Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni. I would also like to thank His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda for undertaking his constitutional mandate because without him putting a signature to this, it wouldn’t be law. When it appeared to him, he had a few questions which we answered and eventually, we now have the law. Every time we have accessed His Excellency the President, he has given us the time and given us the ear despite his busy schedule.
I wouldn’t mind calling it a Magogo bill. For me, my dream was that the sports sector in the country is governed by law. Because we can draw internal regulations as federations on how we regulate ourselves, but we deal with external stakeholders – the public, sponsors, and the government. In the process of dealing with externals, we definitely need a law that guides our operations, protects our operations, and also safeguards us from using our product to harm the public in any way. So it was very important that we needed a law.
And for me, considering the journey as it was, we lost our tempers in a number of places and meetings. But one thing you cannot take away is that I had a passion for it. Bringing it up as a private member’s bill itself isn’t a usual occasion. Parliament allowed me to proceed and work on the bill. Then, remember you have to seek the certificate of financial implication from the Ministry of Finance in regard to the law. In the 60 days, it didn’t come, so we proceeded.
When I sat with Counsel Tamale, we removed all the articles that had financial implications. It was in the Ministry’s bill, which they eventually brought. Since parliament’s 60 days had passed, I proceeded, but when they brought it, we sat down and harmonised. They had very good contributions, so we made a joint effort to eventually come up with the law. You lose some, you win some, but in the end, I am happy that we have a law that addresses specific challenges and also ensures that those investing in sports are truly protected.
This has been one of the dreams I had many years ago when Ugandan football was going through a number of tribulations, and we thought that the best way to address them was to have a national law that addresses the modern times. Nobody was brilliant enough in 1964 to create a law that would address the situation of the current times. So whatever we tried to solve, there was going to be the challenge of the law which was designed for amateur sports — for recreation. When we tried as a federation to go through the channel, through the Ministry, it was not going to be a priority amongst the many priorities.
So what we decided as the Executive Committee of FUFA under my leadership was that we go to parliament. Unfortunately, it was only one who went through. When I started as a member of parliament, in one of the interviews, I was very clear that by the time I leave parliament, we have a modern sports law. And I continued pushing through the committees, the ministry, but the red tape of the ministry was going to be long. It needed a policy and billions of money for it to be done, yet that is not required for a private member. So I took it up, sought leave as provided for in the rules of procedure.
Today, as we speak, it is a different story and it has been a very long journey in between. Today we have a modern law, it addresses a number of challenges. It might not be the most perfect, but amending the law is different from re appealing and creating a new law. Let us give it a test of time; I am sure it will address some of the challenges. At a later date, we can come with modifications and seek amendments. For the moment, I want to thank everyone who made this happen.
FUFA might be the lead federation and has experienced so many things to reach where we are, so we know the journey. And whatever has been put in the law helps any federation that is working hard. If your federation is going to work on the development of the game, recruitment, preparation of teams, this law is going to be useful. All you have to do as a federation is do your things right, follow the natural path of growth that the Football Federation has done, and when you get to the top, you will realize that all these laws were for your growth and benefit.
But we have also taken care of the process of growth; the smaller associations should be given the time and process to grow into the bigger federations. There has also been a benefit that if we are doing sports infrastructure, it is not just for football. But infrastructure across the country, so everybody will be a beneficiary. The surface used for football is used for rugby and many others. Sports in schools have been regulated; one thing criminalized is age falsification and document falsification, which has been a big vice. Yet, this is where we pick the athletes from. So again, the perpetrators, there is no way you can ban them from school sports. But with this new act, it becomes criminal. It is you against the state.
The second edition of FAMACO II targeting Club CEOs of UPL and FWSL as well as regional Football Association General secretaries, officially opened at Jevine Hotel, Kampala.
The FAMACO II has been designed with the intention of enhancing participants’ knowledge and abilities in football leadership and management. It specifically focuses on strengthening and refining the soft and hard skills needed to succeed in an influential role in the football industry.
The 400-hour programme commenced on the 14th of August 2024, featuring three weeks of face-to-face classes. This design ensures an accessible and interactive learning experience for all participants, with the goal of developing their skills and knowledge in management and leadership. The programme also encompasses fieldwork modules dedicated to project conceptualisation, planning and presentation, negotiation skills, and leadership.
In attendance were Justus Mugisha the First Vice President & Ronnie Kalema the Executive Secretary in charge of Football Development.
A total of thirty-four FUFA referees, instructors, and assessors have successfully completed a five-day FIFA instructors and assessors course at the FUFA Technical Center in Njeru.
Seven women, including Margaret Kubingi, Catherine Adipo, Rwamuyamba Rosebell, and Ssemmambo Aisha, among others, were part of the learning group.
The course started on Monday and came to an end on Friday, 4th August 2023. It was conducted by FIFA instructor Ali Ahmed from Somalia.
For the five days while in Njeru, the participants were taken through the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) & its basics, positioning and reading, offside discussion, penalty area incidents, video and off-video test review, video and offside test.
Other topics included; Integrated practical sessions with referees, challenges, and game control, among others.
At the closing ceremony, FUFA’s deputy chief executive officer in charge of football – Decolas Kiiza was the guest of honor.
The course which started on Monday 9th July, climaxed on Wednesday 12th July 2023 with the awarding of certificates of completion to the participants.
UEFA goalkeeping instructor Miroslav Hyll from Slovakia was the facilitator, and he took the coaches through practical and theory sessions during the three days of the training.
Ronnie Kalema, the FUFA executive secretary for football development and a member of the FUFA executive committee and Rogers Byamukama graced the closing ceremony.
Ronnie Kalema enlightened the coaches about FUFA strategies and operations, and elaborated the importance of body in the area of football development.
