In the bid to raise awareness about the deadly cancer scourge in the country, the Uganda Football Players’ Association (UFPA) has partnered with the Uganda Cancer Institute.
In a joint press conference on Wednesday at FUFA House, Paul Mutakabala, the CEO of the Association told the media, the initiative was thought about after the untimely death of Uganda Cranes’ goalkeeper, Abel Dhaira.
Dhaira succumbed to abdominal cancer on 27th March 2016 in Iceland where he had been playing professional football with IBV.
“We have entered an arrangement with the Uganda Cancer Institute. There is a one day tournament arranged on the 16th April 2016 at Nakivubo stadium” Mutakabala said.
Christine Namulindwa addressing the media on Wednesday at FUFA House
Christine Namulindwa, the Public Relations Officer of the Uganda Cancer Institute represented the institution.
“We shall have cancer screening and cancer awareness. We shall conduct a cancer awareness workshop. We expect all active football and retired footballers to turn up. The Screening will be for the players and supporters” she noted.
There will be a main match between the Ex-footballers and the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Before the main match, several teams including the media will curtain raise meanwhile the screening and cancer education take place.
MAIN PHOTO: Uganda Cranes EX-International, Paul Mutakabala, the CEO of the Uganda Football Players’ Association addressing the media about the Cancer Awareness day at Nakivubo Stadium due this Saturday.
Celebrating the good deeds of someone who has done something valuable in society is one of the most treasured aspect of humanity.
Such was the mood at Old Kampala secondary school play ground when the 2016 edition of the Mama Becca women football tournament kicked off on Saturday morning.
A lot of young talents in women football continue to be unearthed as the existing ones thrive amidst all conditions.
Like the previous editions, the Mama Becca women football tournament is played under two categories – open and primary.
FUFA Women Football Development officer, Hadijah Namuyanja is already impressed by the general turn up and quality of the game being exhibited.
Women football action during the 2016 Mama Becca football tournament on Saturday at Old Kampala play grounds
“There is a lot of potential. Women football has come of age. This year’s quality has improved especially in the primary catergory because we had district qualifiers first. So, the teams that made it at the main tournament have been of class” Namuyanja, who is christened ‘Lady Mouriouh’ notes.
The opening day on Saturday was also attended by FUFA Executive committee members, Agnes Mugena and Chris Kaliabala, FUFA Technical Director, Asuman Lubowa, FUFA Women football delegate, FUFA Women football development officer, Hadijah Namuyanja, Ayub Khalifa, Vice Chairperson FUFA Referees’ Sub Committee, Catherine Adipo, Annet Nakamanya from State House, Paul Ssali, among others.
The tournament will climax on Sunday with a colourful prizing giving ceremony.
Some of the Saturday Results:
Open Category:
Ajax Queens 0-3 Mukono High School
Kawempe Muslim A 2-0 Princess Diana (Scorers: Juliet Nalukenge, Hasifa Nassuna)
Kawempe Muslim A 2-1 Ajax Queens
Kawempe Muslim B 0-4 Gadhafi Intergrated
London College 0-1 Gadhafi Intergrated
She Makerere Saints 1-1 Kakungulu Memorial
Gafford Ladies 1-0 London College
She Corporate 0-0 Kakungulu Memorial High School
Primary Category:
Main Street P/S 0-0 Godwins P/S
Namalemba P/S 0-0 Ntinda P/S
Jinja Army Primary School 2-0 Busega P/S (Scorers: Anna Kiyaye and Jovia Nakagolo)
Mwanda 0-0 Jolly P/S
Kisugu P/S 1-0 Devine P/S
Kitebi 1-1 St Joseph (Scorers: Faith Nakyanzi – Kitebi, Bridget Kacuba – St Joseph)
Friday 8th April 2016
JMC hippos FC Vs Lweza FC, Kakindu Stadium (16:00 ) – Live on Azam TV
The saints FC Vs URA FC, Namboole Stadium (16:30)
Saturday, 9th April 2016
Police FC Vs Bright Stars FC, Kavumba R Grounds (16:00)
KCCA FC Vs Maroons FC, Nakivubo Staduim(16:00)
Simba FC Vs SC VU , Bombo Barrack Grounds(16:00 )
Sadolin Paints FC Vs Bul FC , Bugembe Stadium-Jinja (16:00)
Vipers SC Vs Soana FC, Buikwe Stadium (16:00)
The Azam Uganda Premier league returns on Friday with two fixtures.
Jinja Municipal Council Hippos is at home (Kakindu stadium in Jinja) against crowd darling Lweza in the game live on Azam T.V.
The Hippos will look to the magic of Walter Bankene and skipper Richard Wandyaka upfront against a rather solid backline well marshaled by returning captain, Ibrahim Kiyemba after an injury lay off.
Lweza’s potent weapon is the midfield of Paddy Muhumuza who has been a loyal servant since the January transfer window as he feeds off veteran striker, Geofrey Sserunkuma and Moses Ndawula.
The other fixture on the day will witness The Saints entertaining URA at Nelson Mandela National stadium, Namboole – a fixture that will see Moses Basena, now at The Saints facing a team he once coached.
“There is no pressure whatsoever to face a side you once coached. I predict a good game though” Basena, who is also Uganda Cranes assistant coach told www.fufa.co.ug.
The Saints is one desperate club ready to fight the relegation monster and were on the losing side in the last fixture against Lweza at Wankulukuku on Tuesday.
URA F.C on the other side won narrowly 3-2 in the last league engagement.
For one obvious reason, The Saints backline has to be prepared how what mechanism to lay and tame the league sharp shooter, Robert Sentongo (with 15 goals to his name).
Sentongo aside, URA also has Uganda Cranes forward Frank Kalanda whose goal poaching instincts and positional sense is enviable.
Sentongo and Kalanda are well assured of a steady supply of balls from midfielders Elukanah Nkugwa, Saidi Kyeyune and the ever lively Feni Moses Ali.
The Saints have Owen Kasule’s experience to start with on top of Yasin Mugume’s creativity that will give lead forward Alex ‘Benzema’ Kitata the impetus to seek that much needed goal.
Tangosport Uganda Limited in conjunction with Federation of Uganda Football Association ( FUFA ) has yet again organized a beginners coaching course at FUFA Technical Center – Njeru.
The five day long non residential course is slated for 11th up to 15th April, 2016.
Willing participants will pay 100,000 / = per person at Tangosport Uganda Offices in Jinja Town Ghokale Rd or at the FUFA Technical Center – Njeru to Mr. Nyima Jackson, the FUFA Education officer.
The course will be facilitated by FUFA and CAF instructors -Asuman Lubowa (Fufa Technical Director), Jackson Nyima (Fufa Education officer) and Livingstone Kyambadde (Caf instructor).
Wakiso United 1-2 Masavu (not completed but Masavu was leading 2-1 in the 68th Minute)
Elgon Group:
Ndejje University 3-1 Busia Fisheries
Baza Holdings 1-3 Sporting United
Paidha Black Angels 3-0 Lira United
17 goals were scored on Thursday as the FUFA Big league resumed.
Seven of these came in the Rwenzori group and the other ten in Elgon.
Action from the Hope Doves Versus Proline game at Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku
Proline F.C maintained the rich vein of form winning 2-1 away from home at the Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku in the game broadcast live on 102.1 FUFA f.m.
Ibrahim Ssendi gave Proline a 13th minute visit as Ramex Tumwesigye made amends in the 33rd minute.
Fahad Bayo then buried the game in the visitors’ way with a 63rd minute goal.
At the Jinja S.S play ground, Issa Magumba scored in the 33rd minute of the game for the day’s lone strike in Kirinya-Jinja S.S’ victory over Kasese New Villa.
Paidha Black Angels won 3-0 at home against visiting Lira United at the Bar Okoro play ground in Zombo.
A Hope Doves’ player dribbles during the match at Wankulukuku against Proline FC on Thursday.
The body of late Abel Dhaira has been laid to rest at Buyaga Village in Kigandalo subcounty Mayuge District.
Abel Dhaira who passed on in Iceland on Sunday 27th March after losing the battle of cancer and died in Iceland Hospital where he has been hospitalized since December last year.
Iceland National football team Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson attended the burial ceremony where he extended his sincere sorrowfulness of the loss of such great talented goalkeeper in Abel Dhaira.
“I met Abel in 2008 in CECAFA in Kenya. And I took him to Iceland and like I am the only Whiteman alone amongst hundreds of mourners here, this is what happened to Dhaira when he I took him to Iceland to play professional for the first time. But because he was so humble, he had different character from all African players I have ever met, Abel exceled by the virtue of his talent and above all he has been a God fearing man.”
Iceland National football team Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson speaking to late Abel Dhaira’s father Bright Dhaira in Mayuge shortly before burial on Wednesday
National Council for Sports was well represented by David Katende who said Sports in general had lost one of the great talents who will never be replaced.”
Olivia who spoke on behalf of the family was thankful for the support rendered to late Abel Dhaira and his family at large.
Hundred of thousands of mourners at Dhaira’s last ceremony on earth
“I have been with Abel since he got back to Iceland for treatment when he was sick.”
“The family of the late Abel Dhaira wishes to sincerely acknowledge the support received from the whole medical team, Government of Uganda, H.E the President if the Republic of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA), IBV FC, Ambassodor of Uganda to Iceland, Twegaite International, URA FC, walukuba and jinja Community Dhaira Family plus all other football stakeholders who made it possible for AbeL Dhaira’s body to return home. We are greatly appreciative. May Abel Dhaira’s Soul Rest in Eternal peace.” Olivia who has been nursing Dhaira in Iceland said.
Olive Mbakira speaking on behalf of the family
On behalf of FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo was Mr. Justus Mugisha, the FUFA 1st President who thanked the 5 man funeral emergency committee that he commended for the good work of seeing the burial of late Abel Dhaira ending successfully.
“I want to commend the 5 man committee that I have headed as chairperson fo seeing this ceremony ending successfully. This comprised of Norah Nasimbwa (from State House), Katende Semakula (from National Council of Sports), Arinaitwe Rugyendo, and Faisal Mayemba (Family representative). I thank you so much for the commitment.”
Uganda Cranes midfielder, Tonny Mawejje, former teammate to Dhaira at IBV and the national team attended the burial. Other players were David Obua, Godfrey Wakabu (Dhaira’s former teammate at Express F.C, now at Soana F.C), Simeon Massa among others.Uganda Cranes headcoach, Milutin Sredojevic, FUFA 3rd Vice President, Denis Mbidde, FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA Executive Committee member, Sam Lwere and Uganda Cranes team manager, Chrispus Muyinda pay their last respect to Abel Dhaira
“I also want to bring you condolences from the FIFA, CAF and FUFA presidents who not around but with us in sorrow.”
“FUFA president Eng. Moses Magogo was unable to attend the burial because of other official engagements but he is with us in spirit.”
State House was notably represented by Norah Nasimbwa (second left). FUFA 1st Vice President, Justus Mugisha (second from right) represented the FUFA President
The chief mourner, Mrs Lukia Isanga Nakadama also the Minister for Culture, Gender, Labour and Social Development presented her condolence speech on behalf of The President Of the republic of Uganda H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The chief mourner, Mrs Lukia Isanga Nakadama, the Minister for Culture, Gender, Labour and Social Development presented a condolence speech on behalf of The President Of the Republic of Uganda H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
Part of the condolence message from the President H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
“The family of late Abel Dhaira, condolence message, I received with great sadness the news of the untimely death of Abel Dhaira. Please accept on behalf of my family and entire nation my most sincere and heartfelt condolence, the late Abel Dhaira has been an inspiration to the young people. He has succumbed to cancer while the nation still had hopes in him. He is gone too soon, he has been an achiever, in sports and he has been progressive in fostering his talent abroad and represented Uganda well. The late abel dhaira will be remembered for his patriotic spirit and interpersonal fearing skills amongst the sports fraternity.”
Lt. Col Saad Katemba who represented Gen. Katumba Wamala addessing the mourners. On his left is Sam Lwere, FUFA Executive Committee member
Among other notable guests Lt. Col Saad Katemba who represented Gen. Katumba Wamala, Katende David from National Council of Sports, Omara Apita the Commissioner physical Education, Science, Technology and Sports, Norah Nassimbwa from State House all attended the burial ceremony.
Biography
Name: Abel Dhaira
Born: 9th September 1987
Died: 27th March, 2016
Burial: 6th April 2016 at Buyaga Village, Kigandalo Subcounty Mayuge district.
Parents: Mr. Bright Dhaira and Mrs Nakijoba Harriet Dhaira
AZAM UGANDA PREMIER LEAGUE [Tuesday, 5th April 2016 Results]
Bright Stars FC 1-2 KCCA FC
BUL FC 2-0 Express FC
Lweza FC 2-0 The Saints FC
Maroons FC 1-1 JMC Hippos FC
SC VU 0-3 Sadolin Paints FC
URA FC 3-2 Simba FC
Police FC 0-0Vipers SC
Seventeen goals were scored in the seven Azam Uganda Premier League (AUPL) fixtures played on Tuesday, 5th April 2016 at the various play grounds.
Kampala Capital City Authority stretched their lead at the summit of the sixteen team log with a hard fought 2-1 result over Bright Stars in a game televised live on Azam T.V.
Joseph Ochaya netted a brace for KCCA F.C with a penalty and a well headed effort while Joshua Kawadwa had pulled a goal back for the home side.
With the result, KCCA F.C now leads with 8 points ahead of second placed Vipers who were held to a goal-less draw at Kavumba stadium by Police F.C.
Vipers’ closest opportunity to score came in the 47th minute when midfielder, Allan Kyambadde headed onto the cross bar.
At the Mutesa II Stadium, Wankulukuku, home side Lweza got the better of The Saints 2-0.
Lweza’s goals were scored by Juma Balinya and Geofrey Sserunkuma inside the opening 40 minutes of the game.
At the Mehta stadium, Lugazi, URA won 3-2 over army side Simba.
Robert Sentongo scored a brace to increase his personal tally to 15 goals in the season.
Dickson Kigongo had the other goal for the tax collectors. Meanwhile, defender Musa Docca and promising right back, Aggrey Kirya struck the consolation goals for Simba.
In Jinja, BUL F.C broke the win-less streak in as many games with the 2-0 result over giants, Express.
Team skipper, Augustine Nsumba led by example with a fourth minute goal before Milton Karisa scored the other midway in the second stanza of the game.
At the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, there was a red card given to either sides as Sadolin Paints defeated home side, Sports Club Victoria University 3-0.
Norman Ogiki scored a brace in the 8th and 14th minutes before Nazir Sserwadda’s 29th minute goal gave the visitors a 3-0 lead by the half hour mark.
As early as the 6th minute, Sadolin Paints’ defender , Joseph Ssemwogerere was red carded and he was followed by Victoria University’s midfielder Ceasar Sapewo in the 29th minute.
It was a one all stalement between Jinja Municipal Council Hippos and Maroons F.C at the Luzira Prisons stadium.
Maroons lead striker Patrick Kaddu, formerly at Kira Young scored the day’s opener as the visitors rallied to square off the game defender Issa Magumba’s late-late penalty in the second minute of added time.
The next matches will be played on Friday and Saturday.
There was a special requiem mass for former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper, Abel Dhaira on Monday morning at All Saints Church, Nakasero in Kampala.
The mass was led by Rev. John Musana Lakor who preached about love, exemplary and pure living in society.
The day’s Master of Ceremony, FUFA Super League Board Chairman Arinaitwe Rugyendo, also one of the five members of the Abel Dhaira burial committee named by the FUFA Emergency committee guided the gathering in an orderly manner throughout the service.
FUFA President, Eng Moses Magogo informed the mourners that FIFA President, Giovanni Infantino and CAF had sent in written condolence messages expressing sorrowfulness about Dhaira’s death.
‘We learnt of Abel Dhaira’s death on the way from Burkina Faso after the AFCON 2017 qualifier. It was a very trying moment for all of us. We have missed a very talented and sincere footballer. The FIFA President, Giovanni Infantino has sent in a special condolence message to us and the family of Dhaira’ Eng. Magogo.
Eng. Magogo also hinted of dedicating the ongoing AFCON 2017 qualification to Abel Dhaira.
The mass was also attended by Uganda Cranes head coach, Milutin Sredojevic, Uganda Cranes player Tonny Mawejje, FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson and other FUFA staff and Executive members-VP Justus Mugisha, Sam Mpiima and Sam Lwere.
Hon, Charles Bakabulindi, Minister of State for Sports and M.P of Workers addressing the mourners at All Saints Church, Nakasero in Kampala
Minister of state for Sports Hon. Charles Bakabulindi represented the Government and appreciated the generosity of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni towards all the assistance to transport the body of Dhaira from Iceland where he died back to Uganda for a decent burial.
“Abel Dhaira lived a strong legacy worthy to be emulated. We also thank President Museveni for the assistance rendered” Bakabulindi said.
Bright Dhaira (father to Abel Dhaira), the mother and other family members during the mass at All Saints Cathedral on Monday
Others at the mass were Kampala City Lord Mayor, Elias Lukwago, Spokesperson at the Ministry of Internal affairs, Pamela Ankunda, family members, football friends.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chris Dhaira, a family member thanked FUFA, the Government, all the clubs where Dhaira played from and the football fraternity in general for the good time spent with the gallant soldier who loved and perfected his work with passion.
FUFA CEO, also Uganda Cranes former Captain, Edgar Watson hands over FUFA’s financial contribution to Bright Dhaira, father to Abel Dhaira
FUFA has also contributed a sum of Ug.shs 5M and National Council of Sports (Ug.shs 1M) to further assist in the burial arrangements.
Uganda Cranes midfielder, Tonny Mawejje (second left) at the All Saints Churchl, Nakasero in Kampala
From Church, the body was taken at Nakivubo Stadium where the public got the chance to view it before being driven to Walukuba in Jinja for the overnight vigil at the family house.
Soana Football Club players in Church. Eric Dhaira (young brother to Abel Dhaira) plays at Soana F.C in the Azam Uganda Premier League
Abel Dhaira, who died from cancer last month in Iceland, aged 28 will be laid to rest on Wednesday in Mayuge, Eastern pat of Uganda.
UPDATED: Programme for the burial arrangements of Abel Dhaira
Friday 1st April, 2016: Casket carrying the remains of Abel Dhaira leaves Iceland for Uganda
Sunday 3rd April, 2016:
3.55 am: Arrival of the casket at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda
5 am: Casket handed over to Kampala Funeral Directors, taken to Mulago Hospital
Monday 4th April, 2016:
10am; Church service at All Saints Church, Nakasero
1pm; Public viewing at Nakivubo stadium
4pm; Departure of the casket to Jinja
7pm; Arrival of casket at Abel Dhaira’s home in Walukuba
10pm; Body taken to the home of Abel Dhaira’s father for Night vigil in Walukuba
Tuesday 5th April, 2016
9am; Church service at All Saints Church, Walukuba
Midday: Body taken to BAT Sports grounds Walukuba for public viewing
2pm; Body taken to the Busoga Lukiiko in Bugembe
4pm; Body driven to Buyaga, Kigandalo in Mayuge district for night vigil
Wednesday 6th April, 2016
10am; Burial ceremony commences
2pm; Burial
Note: Kampala Funeral Directors are managing the funeral event
Finals (Girls): Masaka S.S 1-0 Kakungulu Memorial School
MVP’s: Joseph Malish (Welden) & Jacky Nassali (Kakungulu Memorial)
Top Scorers: Joseph Jjanjali – 10 goals (Masaka S.S) & Juliet Nalukenge – 4 goals (Kawempe Muslim)
Hosts, Masaka secondary school won two football titles as the 2016 Uganda Muslim Solidarity Association (UMEA) games ended on Easter Sunday at Masaka recreational stadium.
Masaka S.S retained the boys’ title and won the inaugural edition of girls’ football.
In the boy’s final, Masaka defeated Welden School from Mbarara with winger Abdulnoor Lukwata scoring five minutes to the game death.
Action in the Boys’ final between Welden School, Mbarara (red) and Masaka S.S (White with green stripes) at a fully packed Masaka Recreational stadium
For the first time, girls’ football was played at the UMEA games.
Masaka S.S edged Kakungulu Memorial school 1-0 with midfielder, Catherine Nakiridde scoring a wonder goal with the left foot from over 45 yards.
‘It is good that we have started girls’ football. The UMEA games are an avenue of spotting talent from the grassroots’ Chairman of the local organizing committee, Hajji Twahil Kitezeela noted.
Best Performers:
Goalkeeper, Joseph Malish (Welden) & Jacky Nassali (Kakungulu Memorial) were the most valuable players in the male and female genders respectively.
Chief Guest, Vincent Ssempijja hands over a football to tournament top scorer, Joseph Jjanjali of Masaka S.S who finished with 10 goals
Masaka’s Joseph Jjanjali , who was recently summoned to the U-20 team finished with 10 goals to take the top scorers’ accolade.
Girl’s football MVP, Jackline Nassali recieves her prizes from Hon. Vincent Ssempijja, the Minister of State for Agriculture, also M.P for Kalungu East
Juliet Nalukenge of Kawempe Muslim finished with 10 goals to take the top scorers’ gong.
Kibuli S.S were the overall champions, defending their title won at the 2015 games hosted by Kasawo S.S.
Masaka S.S finished second with two gold medals whilst Kakungulu Memorial was the third best.
The chief Guest was Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, state minister of agriculture who is also the MP Elect for Kalungu West.
Ssempijja was the long serving chairman of Masaka Local Council Football club.
He handed over the prizes to the different winners.
Ssempijja used the plat form to appreciate the organizers of this tournament and assured Government will assist in the development of sports at grassroot levels.
A record 1500 students participated in the four day’s event.
FUFA donated 10 playing footballs, NIC provided the medical insurance cover and Pepsi quenched the thirst of all the participants as well as providing tents and plastic chairs used.
FUFA also provided the match referees for all the boys and girls’ football matched.
The 2016 Uganda Muslim Schools’ solidarity games successfully kicked off at Masaka secondary school on Good Friday.
The official opening ceremony was held at Masaka Recreational stadium where a record over 2000 participating students gathered to grace the start of the five day tournament whose main aims among others is to foster unity, offer a talent identification ground for raw talent and promote Muslim solidarity among the islamic founded schools in Uganda.
Chief guest at the opening ceremony, Al Hajji Dr. Twaha Kawaase Kigongo, the second Deputy Katikiro of the Buganda Kingdom hailed the organizers of the this tournament with a call to parents to encourage their sons and daughters take upon sports.
‘Sports is key for healthy living, socializing and improvement of welfare. I urge parents to encourage their children play football and other sporting disciplines’ Kawaase called.
Host Head teacher, Hajji Musa Mpungu of Masaka S.S lauded the 88 participating schools for the great response and wished all the participants a fruitful deliberation.
Al Hajji Dr. Twaha Kawaase Kigongo, the second Deputy Katikiro of the Buganda Kingdom greets members of the UMEA 2016 local organizing committee
In the official opening football match played at Masaka Recreational stadium, Masaka S.S won the day 3-1 over Wagwa High School from Lukaya.
Isaac Ogwang tapped home right back Geziga Atendele’s cross inside the opening 30 seconds of the thriller.
Atendele then scored through a penalty when Michael Miiro handled the ball in the forbidden area.
Second half substitute, Badru Kyazze gave Wagwa High a lifeline with a 70th minute goal with a wonder finish off Nicholas Midu’s assist.
Another substitute, Abdulnoor Lukwata buried the game in Masaka’s favour with a solo effort finishing calmly past Wagwa’s goalie Deogratius Nabangi with 13 minutes left on the clock.
Wagwa’s Nicolas Onega (left) tackles Masaka’s midfielder, Kippa Luwalo. Luwalo was voted MVP at the 2015 Copa Coca Cola national schools’ games in Hoima when he was still a student at St Joseph College, Layibi
The other boys’ results had Kibuli Juventus win 3-1 over Mbogo Mixed and Kasawo S.S drawing with Mbarara’s Welden High School.
Women football is a new ‘delicious meal’ on the 2016 UMEA Games menu.
Reigning FUFA Women Elite league champions, Kawempe Muslim stamped early authority with a hard fought 2-1 result at the hands of Kakungulu Memorial.
Hasifa Nassuna and Amina Nababi scored for Kawempe Muslim.
The other girls’ football fixture swung in favour of Masaka S.S. The host school defeated Kibuli 1-0.
Besides boys’ and girls football there a couple of other games (handball, netball and volleyball) being played.
Masaka S.S is the defending champion in football event but Kibuli S.S took the overall title at the games last held at Kasawo S.S in 2015.
Masaka S.S students entertain the guests during the official opening ceremony at Masaka Recreational stadium
The 2016 UMEA Games climax on Easter Monday.
This year’s edition of the UMEA Games has been supported by National Insurance Corporation (NIC), Crown Beverages Limited (under Pepsi Brand) and FUFA, who donated 10 footballs.
Welden High School’s Badru Kyazze dribbles past Masaka S.S’ Kippa Luwalo during the official opening match of the 2016 UMEA Games at Masaka Recreational Stadium on Good Friday
MAIN PHOTO: Wagwa High’s Moses Bwete (with the ball) is attacked by Masaka S.S’ Frank ‘Walcot’ Iga. Iga replaced a limping Ibrahim Magandaazi in the first half. Iga played for Bulo Parents S.S at last year’s UMEA Games hosted by Kasawo before Masaka S.S recruited him.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) joined hundreds of football fans from around Busoga region and all over the country at the residence of Bright Dhaira, father of Abel Dhaira who is battling cancer in Iceland for a prayer moment in Walukuba, Jinja.
FUFA was ably represented Execuitve Committee members 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, Head of Security Sam Lwere and Jinja Municipal Council Football club Director Muhammed Faiza.
The afternoon prayers were also accompanied by cancer awareness campign supporting the family financially and a proposal to initiate an Abel Dhaira cancer foundation which was blessed by FUFA.
Mr. Mugoye, representing the FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo who is with the Uganda Cranes in Burkina Faso thanked Walukuba for producing footballers to the various National teams.
The FUFA President is with the family spiritually though he is in Burkina Faso. He will visit the family upon return. FUFA has pledged $1000 to the family because Abel Dhaira has been a gallant servant to the team over the years.
Hajji Siraji Nkendembi pledged 600.000/- to the fundraising drive and proposed to organise an Abel Dhaira football tournament.
Muhammed Faizal of JMC Hippos pledged 1,000,000/- (One Million Shillings). Member of Parliament Hon. Paul Mwiru, also pledged 1 million shillings to the family.
Some of the people who attended the special prayers for Abel Dhaira on Good Friday at Walukuba, Jinja Town
Mugoye told the gathering that FUFA is making all endeavors to professionalize the league and improve on the welfare of the players.
He also revealed that FUFA is looking forward to improve on Walukuba football field, a home that has baby seated millions of Uganda’s unquestionable talents.
FUFA has prepared special T-shirts for players to wear before warm up of the AFCON qualifier against Burkina Faso on Tuesday night at Namboole stadium as a way of gratitude and togetherness with the ailing footballer.
Other prominent personalities who attended the prayers included coaches Sam Simbwa, George Nsimbe, retired and active players and famous preacher Pastor Moses Ssemambo.
MAIN PHOTO: FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye addressing the congregation in Walukuba during a special day of prayers for Aebl Dhaira on Good Friday.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and the Uganda Cranes players have planned something special for Abel Dhaira who is down with cancer.
The world was treated to shocking news when goalkeeper Dhaira, now based in Iceland was diagnosed with abdominal cancer.
FUFA will communicate to the Uganda Cranes players to collectively dedicated the double header against Burkina Faso to the talented goalkeeper who previously played at Express, URA, Simba (Tanzania) and two stints at IBV Vestmannaeyjar in Iceland Premier league.
FUFA Spokesperson Ahmed Hussein said;
We are saddened by Dhaira’s current Situation.
We remain hopeful the Lord in Heaven will heal him.
Uganda Cranes players will don special T-shirts before warmup wishing him a quick recovery.
As the Uganda Cranes family, we pray with humbleness that Abel Dhaira gets well soon.
Dhaira hails from a sporting family in Walukuba, Jinja and his father Bright Dhaira is also a former Uganda Cranes international now at BUL FC goal keeping coach.
8th & 9th April 2016 – Old Kampala Secondary School, Kampala
To avoid undue disruptions due to Uganda Cranes’ engagements in the AFCON 2017 qualifiers, Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has pushed ahead the Mama Becca women football tournament to the 8th and 9th April 2016.
FUFA Spokesperson, Ahmed Hussein confirmed the postponement on Wednesday during the weekly press conference.
After we held the Mama Becca qualifiers (for the primary schools in eight districts), we were supposed to have the main tournament this coming weekend.
But, because of the busy schedule that involves Uganda Cranes double header against Burkina Faso away and at Namboole on the 29th March 2016, we have pushed the Mama Becca cup to give it all the due attention and respect Mama Becca Kazibwe, an ardent of football fan and women football in particular deserves.
The tournament will run for two days with teams in the Primary section, secondary catergory and clubs at Old Kampala Secondary school play ground in Kampala central.
Entebbe District primary schools’ qualifiers at Lake Victoria Primary school in Entebbe
Last weekend, eight districts conducted their qualifiers from which the best three teams per district qualified for the main finals in the primary section.
Glittering prizes, medals, awards to exceling and exmplary players as well as various cash prizes await the winners courtesy of Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
Ntinda Primary School pupils receive their trophy from FUFA Executive committee member, Agnes Agena. Ntinda Primary School won the Nakawa District qualifiers
Successful teams per District (Primary Schools Catergory):
NAKAWA DIVISION: NTINDA PS, ST KIZITO PS, ST JAMES
MAKINDYE DIVISION: GABA PS, KISUGU PS , MILITARY PS
15,000/- for students (pilot project at MUBS, MUK)
If some one buys ten (10) tickets at once of the 50,000/- category, he/she will pay 400,000/-
The arrival of US based Mike Azira and South African based goalkeeper, Denis Onyango means Uganda Cranes base at Sky Hotel, Naalya is full.
The duo is expected to join the rest of the players in training for the last session on Wednesday evening.
Team departure is early Thursday at mid-night.
FUFA Spokesperson, Ahmed Hussein told the media during a press conference that the final team will be named by coach Micho after the Wednesday evening session.
‘When the traveling team is released, they are expected to leave Kampala for Entebbe International Airport at around 10 p.m on Wednesday night. They will depart Entebbe minutes after mid-night with Ethiopian Airlines’ Ahmed said.
Ahmed Hussein addressing the media on Wednesday morning at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala
The Cranes advance team led by Rogers Byamukama is already in Burkina Faso to prepare for team preparations.
Uganda Cranes Team In Camp:
Goalkeepers: Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Robert Odongkara (St George, Ethiopia), James Alitho (Vipers, Uganda), Salim Jamal (El Merriekh, Sudan)
Defenders: Denis Iguma (Al-Ahed, Lebanon), Isaac Isinde (St George, Ethiopia), Joseph Nsubuga (Bright Stars, Uganda), Joseph Ochaya (KCCA, Uganda), Denis Okot Oola (KCCA, Uganda), Isaac Muleme (SC Villa, Uganda), Murushid Jjuuko (Simba, Tanzania), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (Al Shorta, Iraq), Timothy Awanyi (KCCA, Uganda), Bernard Muwanga (Bright Stars, Uganda)
TOURNAMENT DATES: Friday, 25th and Saturday, 26th March 2016
The preparations for a successful Mama Becca women’s football tournament are in a high gear.
FUFA Women football officer, Hadijah ‘Lady Mouriouh’ Namuyanja told the media during the Wednesday Press conference that FUFA has already planned for the district qualifiers.
One of the trophies that will be given out to the winners
‘The district qualifiers will be played on Friday, 18th March 2016. The top three teams will qualify to play at the 2016 Mama Becca Cup. FUFA has already bought all the trophies that will be awarded to the various winners. Each region will get 20 footballs’ Namuyanja said.
District qualifiers will be held in Entebbe, Jinja, Iganga, Kawempe, Kampala, Rubaga, Makindye and Nakawa.
The tournament finals will be played on Saturday, 27th March 2016.
MAIN PHOTO: FUFA Women Football officer, Hadijah Namuyanja addressing the media on Wednesday at Mengo in Kampala
The FIFA Member Association (M.A) Referees and Assessors’ Elite course has continued with the physical drills in Jinja.
The course is set to run for six successive days between Sunday, 13th up to 18th March 2016.
Samuel Egesa, the FUFA Referees Manager says the course started on Sunday with medical tests.
On Monday morning at 7am, physical fitness tests and sprints rolled off.
FUFA Referees Manager Samuel Egesa, Ronnie Kalema-Head of FUFA Referees Assessment Committee and National Referees Fitness Instructor Ali Kalyango are the FUFA officials that supervised the exercise with a keen eye from three FIFA referees instructors; Carlos Henriques (Regional Development Officer from Gaborone), Felix Tangawarina (Technical Instructor from Zimbabwe) and Mark Mzengo (Fitness Instructor from Malawi).
Referees in a work outFUFA Referees Chairman, Chris Kalibala addresses the media in Jinja
Full Programme:
Saturday 12th March, 2016: Arrival of participants and FIFA Instructors
Sunday 13th March, 2016: Medicals at 11am
Monday 14th March,2016 : Physical fitness for Referees 7am
