FUFA in association with the Regional Football Associations has confirmed a full progamme to spread the capacity building courses for Football Administration and Management (FAMACO I) in all the 8 FUFA Regions.
The courses are scheduled to take place from 21st to 23rd February 2025. The programme is a key component of FUFA’s commitment to enhancing the administrative and managerial capacities of football stakeholder in the Country. It also aligns directly with the FUFA Technical Master Plan (2023-2030), which outlines our strategic vision for the development of football the sport in Uganda.
The FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe confirmed the programme and highlights its importance.
‘The intervention aims to equip football internal stakeholders and as well as interested external stakeholders from the 8 FUFA Regions with the necessary knowledge and methodologies to effectively manage and run football clubs and associations in line with the trinity of football governance, football the sport and football business’ said Mwebe
The 3 elements are the foundations of professional approach of the game in clubs and associations.
Applicants shall be required to pay a course fee of one hundred and fifty thousand shillings (UGX 150,000) each payable to respective FUFA Regional association secretariat.
Please submit your application by February 20, 2025 latest with payment to respective Regional FA Secretariat as a proof. The link for registration is here below:- https://forms.gle/5vq4iGJ4gi5w3rao9
The regions, contacts of General Secretaries and venues for the courses
Western Region FA- Ms. Nalwanga Bertha 0705658360 (Mbarara)
Kitara Region FA-Turyomuriwe Samuel 0784024235 (Masindi)
Kampala Region FA-Kyanda Reagan 0705356440 (Rubaga)
Northern Region FA Alal Eron 0771877921 (Lira)
North East Region FA-Ekaju Dan 0785055286 (Soroti)
Eastern Region FA- Mafuko Rauf 0776553425 (Iganga)
Buganda Region FA- Ssejjemba Brian 0701201915 (Wakiso)
West Nile Region FA- Keuber Moses 0782044151 (Arua)
For any further information on registration, please contact Mr. Nyiima Jackson on 0752477953 or Ms. Ayebare Patricia on 0777752923.
As part of our commitment to enhancing the administrative and managerial capacities of football stakeholders, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) is pleased to announce the upcoming FAMACO II training programme.
FUFA’s concept of the trinity of Football Administration and Management has created a framework for structured, specialised capacity building in football administration and management.
The FAMACO Courses, comprising three tiers (FAMACO I, II, and III), aim to equip football administrators and managers with the necessary skills and knowledge. (FAMACO I, 24hrs in 3 days organised by FUFA, Members of FUFA and registered and licensed partner entities, FAMACO II, examinable 40hrs in 5 Days and FAMACO III, which is examinable with field work requirement covers 360hrs in 3 months organized by FUFA only.
The FAMACO II training programme, scheduled to take place from February 26th to March 2nd, 2025, in Kampala (exact venue to be confirmed), is designed for eligible FAMACO I holders.
This examinable course covers 40 hours over five days.
This training programme aligns directly with the FUFA Technical Master Plan (2023-2030), which outlines our strategic vision for the development of football in Uganda.
The programme aims to enhance the administrative and managerial capacities of football stakeholders in active positions or those aspiring to progress from FAMACO I.
The individual course fee is UGX 1,000,000, covering boarding, lodging and all associated costs.
Participants will receive payment details via their registered email address. The deadline for online application is Friday, February 24th, 2025.
The Football Management and Administration Course II (FAMACO II) came to an end at Crane Paradise Hotel, Kisasi with participants receiving certificates at a ceremony presided over by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo accompanied by his 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha together with the FUFA Executive Committee Members.
Thirty eight participants received certificates of merit after completing a five day residential course where they undertook various modules including the FUFA Technical Master Plan, TV Rights and Broadcasting, Marketing and Branding, Laws of the Game, Strategic Management, Football Governance, Football Infrastructure, Safeguarding, and How to Get Involved.
The course was facilitated by a team of instructors including FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo, FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha, Sam Mpiima, Ronnie Kalema, Rogers Byamukama, Decolas Kiiza, Ali Mwebe, Yusuf Awuye, Mashood Sali, Denis Lukambi, Barbra Irakiza, Patrick Ayebare, and Aleluya Lordson.
During the farewell ceremony, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo urged participants to apply the knowledge they had acquired and to give back to their communities by sharing their insights.
‘Over the past seven days, I have been the most excited person because I have been able to contribute to the development of football leadership. We have trained trainers from different regions, and today, we have football leaders completing FAMACO II. I understand that you are here because of passion, as none of you are paid for the resources you have invested. I appreciate Mr. Mugisha, who identified me as an instructor and encouraged me to take on football administration courses.”
He emphasized the importance of knowledge in football leadership, dismissing claims that the initiative was politically motivated.’
‘In Moroto, we agreed that football leaders should have knowledge about the game, and today, we have fulfilled that promise. Some may think this is a political move, but that is not the case. Football requires experience, and our goal was not to exclude those with experience but to enhance knowledge in the administration of the game. Our dream is to establish a professional sports institute in Njeru, where continuous training will take place to prepare people for future opportunities.’ Said Eng Magogo
Other Key Remarks included FUFA First VP Justus Mugisha,Executive Secretary Incharge of football development Ronnie Kalema, Executive Committee Member Agnes Mugena, Deputy CEO Football Decolas Kiiza and Bul FC Chairman Ronald Barente.
Justus Mugisha, FUFA First Vice President: ‘I have been reflecting on how all this began. We had our first FAMACO course in 2009 when football was in crisis with leaders who were educated but lacked knowledge about the game. I am glad that we have made significant progress and are now completing the third edition of FAMACO II.’
Ronnie Kalema, Executive Secretary, Football Development: ‘The Executive Secretary in charge of Governance, Sam Mpiima identified governance issues, which I took up with the FUFA President. He supported our idea giving us the green light. I congratulate everyone who has completed this course and thank you for dedicating your time. I also appreciate the instructors for their excellent work in passing on knowledge.’
Agnes Mugena, FUFA EXCOM Member: ‘I thank the FUFA President for the opportunity to acquire knowledge and a big applause to the facilitators for their teaching methods. I urge the participants to spread their acquired knowledge to the grassroots.’
Decolas Kiiza, FUFA Deputy CEO: ‘The FUFA Secretariat is proud to work under the current EXCOM. One of the key aspects of implementing the Technical Master Plan is human resource which has been well supported by the President and his team. Congratulations to the participants for completing the course, and thank you for dedicating your time to acquiring knowledge.’
Ronald Barente, Chairman, BUL FC: ‘Someone who gives you knowledge provides you with lifelong capital. It is disappointing that many UPL Club Chairmen and Presidents shunned this free course. Everyone needs to take on such training to eliminate mediocrity in football leadership. I am glad that I leave here with more knowledge, and I urge club leaders to take advantage of such opportunities whenever they arise.’
Uganda referees set to officiate in the second round of FUFA Competitions this season have reported at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru for sessions involving medical and physical tests before they are given the green light.
The refresher course will run for four days having started on Wednesday 5th February 2025 with the medical exercises of the referees under the watchful eye of FUFA head of medical – Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe.
The list of referees in Njeru
Nuwagaba Felix (National), Murungi Diana (FIFA), Kyamamwa Tomas Kalangira (National), Mugerwa Innocent (National), Oscar Esiru (National), Kinyera Fred (National), Odokonyera Denish (National), Aliruku James (National), Ssemeere Asadu (National), Zziwa Charles Edward (National), Okello Dick (FIFA), Asiimwe Natasha (National), Ocan Isaac (National), Ogiera Immaculate (FIFA), Atiku Rahuman (National), Kimayo Stephen (National), Happy Baduru (National), Kasalirwe Lucky Razake (FIFA), Auma Lydia (National), Ojame Eric Francis (National), Lubwama Ivan (National) Ijaga Muzamil Musa (National), Masembe Joseph (National), Lulenzi Sharif (National), Magoola Ashiraf (FIFA), Mutonyi Jane (FIFA), Katenya Ronald (FIFA), George Olemu (FIFA), Osire Juma (National), Ojilong Jabeth Elly (National), Nasser Muhammed Kirya (National), Kavuma Vincent (National), Mirondo Azed (National), Naigaga Habiba (FIFA), Jjumba Solomon (National),Tumuhaise John Baptist (National), Opolot Shafik (National),Duula Joshua (FIFA), Nabadda Shamirah (FIFA), Samba Hassan (National), Mawerere Musa (National), Nayebare Barbarah (National), Nassolo Elizabeth (FIFA), Mustapha Mafumu (National), Okudrah Emmanuel (FIFA), Musisi Brianson (FIFA), Tummusime Gerald Tuge (National), Maliro T. Erasmus (National), Lucky Geofrey (National), Kateraga Ashiraf (FIFA), Yasir Arafat (National), Agir Tonny (National), Hakim Mulidwa (FIFA)
Day 1 – Pictorial
Day 2 – Pictorial
Day two of the refresher course at FUFA Technical Center Njeru. FUFA competition Director Hajati Aisha Nalule and FIFA/ CAF fitness instructor took the referees through the Laws of the Game and physical fitness and preparations.
Today, during the the ongoing Referees Refresher Course at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, the FUFA Integrity Officer Aijuka Kevin delivered a preventive education session on match-fixing.
The session focused on educating the referees about the dangers of match-fixing and equiping them with knowledge of how to appropriately respond when approached with offers to take part in manipulation of football matches and competitions. FUFA continues with its efforts to raise awareness on the campaign to make sure the general public understands the dangers of match fixing and can help the football family in the fight against this dangerous Vice.
Match fixing is easily fought following three key pillars of; Recognise, Resist and Report.
FUFA has rolled out a programme for Training of Trainers that will produce new Instructors with the aim of transforming football to contribute to the federation’s Vision and Mission.
Football Development Director Ali Mwebe (Center) and CAF instructor Jackson Nyiima with participants
The initial three-day programme that started on Monday of this week at Cranes Paradise Hotel Kisaasi with courses targeting selected participants from the 8 FUFA regions ended on Wednesday evening.
Participants pay attention during the training
The final products of the course will become Regional Chief Instructors in each of the four areas of administration, coaching, refereeing and goalkeeping.
Being areas of specialities (5 aside games), Uganda Beach Soccer Association and Futsal Association Uganda also submitted one candidate each for coaching Instructors’ course.
The course at Kisaasi was conducted by a number of FIFA and FUFA Instructors.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim
FIFA Instructors FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha were key facilitators equipping participants with modern football methodology of teaching.
FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha
Specialised instructors included Brian Miiro Nsubuga (refereeing), Ibrahim Mugisha (goal keeping) and Jackson Nyiima (coaching).
‘Capacity building has been a key pillar of FUFA football transformation under the leadership of the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and at FUFA Executive Committee level, it is highly prioritized under the football development functionality’ noted FUFA Executive Secretary for Football Development Ronnie Kalema.
The FUFA Technical Master Plan spreading wings
To realise the development and extension of mass football, the Technical Master Plan focuses on human resource in football with the aim of increasing the number of trained football administrators, qualified coaches and football referees. FUFA wants to increase the number to 2,240 persons in each category by 2030.
This will require more courses in the regions and a new agenda with emphasis on football capacity building instructors in those respective areas.
This intervention is designed to ensure accessibility and cost-effectiveness of FUFA’s capacity-building programmes at regional level, enabling more football administrators, coaches, referees and goalkeeper coaches to be trained in support of mass football development at the grassroots level
‘One key characteristic of good education system and capacity building is accessibility by placing regional chief instructors under TMP implementation. New and refresher courses will be accessible to the football human resource across the country’ said FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe.
The capacity building sessions are in line with the Technical Master Plan (TMP) which is built on four key pillars with one of them aimed at mass football to extend the game to every homestead in the country.
FUFA Members for FAMACO I and FAMACO II
FUFA has also organised courses for its Members and affiliates with the capacity building programmes continuing for FAMACO I from 30th January to 1st February and will be followed by FAMACO II later on from 2nd -6th February 2025.
FUFA has today announced Mashood Ssali as the new Referees’ Development Manager with effect from 1st February 2025 under the ongoing implementation of the FUFA Technical Master Plan.
Ssali enjoyed a 24- year stellar refereeing career which covered 10 years as a FIFA referee.
In his new role, Ssali will oversee the development and operational aspects of refereeing under the Football Development Department at the FUFA Secretariat, in close association with the FUFA Referees Standing Committee, to ensure the advancement of referees for both mass football and elite football performance. A Master’s degree holder in marketing, Ssali retired recently from refereeing on 6th January 2025 and will replace Egesa Samuel, who served in the same role since 2010 and left on account of contract expiry.
Mashood Ssali Commenting on his appointment;
“On several occasions, I have listened to the FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim explain the Technical Masterplan, which highlights life after football—an initiative aimed at bringing retired football players back to serve the game in other capacities. Today, it involves refereeing, and I am grateful and honoured that, after 24 years on the field as a referee, I will now shift my focus on contributing to the development of refereeing in line with the FUFA Technical Masterplan. I will strive to deliver and meet the expectations of this role. However, this is not a one-man show as it requires teamwork to achieve the results”
The Grade Four scout course coming under the FUFA Technical Master plan with support of FIFA Talent Development has been completed in West Nile Region at Springs Nursery and Primary School Arua.
A total of 42 candidates representing 100% of West Nile Districts have been trained to conform to FUFA Presidents affirmed commitment of FUFA to extend at least one scout in every district.
The course has been conducted by Petros Koukouras assisted by Jerome Katende from FUFA Football Development Department.
FUFA West Nile Region Chairman Fredrick Isaac Adde opened the course on 22nd December while FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga officiated at the closing ceremony today evening awarding certificates to the 39 male and 3 female participants in the course.
“This G4 West Nile Pioneer Scouts training will go a long way in future contribution to talent identification for the benefits of individual players, clubs, our region and country. Thank you, our trainers, Administrator, and big thanks to FUFA we will forever remain grateful for this opportunity and many more to come. This is a right step in shaping the future of football in our country” said Ms. Amina Atako, one of the graduates.
Ariga while officiating at closing ceremony thanked FUFA President for extending such football development projects in West Nile Region.
He further highlighted that in absence of these scouts, most of the players from West Nile Region have been going to neighbouring countries, he appealed to the trained scouts to go back and look for talented players both boys and girls.
The first CAF A Coaching Diploma Course under the new CAF coaching convention concluded on Saturday evening after 240 hours of learning at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
A total of 24 coaches, consisting of tacticians from various divisions, saw out block seven (7) of the training yesterday– which was the final assessment of all the participants, thus completing the six month-long course that began in May with pre-entry assessment of candidates to select the final 25 from 49 applicants.
CAF Instructor Francis Kimanzi supervised the last phase of the course which was then officially closed by FUFA Deputy CEO- Services Humphrey Mandu who was the chief guest. All the coaches received certificates of completion.
Mandu told the coaches that they are a vital pillar to the future of Ugandan football. He also reiterated FUFA’s commitment to embracing capacity building.
“Being in football management, nothing is possible without key stakeholders like you. And at the level you have reached, football in Uganda is going to be squarely hinged on your progress.”
“This crop that has come out today is the future of our football in Uganda. So, take yourselves as a very high breed of football coaches. Of course you will move with the others who are already there. They are doing a great job but I believe you will come up with a different concept.”
“As FUFA, we have very many concepts we are pushing, and the mission is – we want to be the number one footballing nation in Africa, on and off the pitch.”
“We need you and we are going to rely on you. Please show all your abilities and change, and brand yourselves.Let’s work together. In case you need any help, we are available as administrators and as FUFA. The federation is going to continue supporting you in all aspects, in terms of technology and more coaching courses because it is the best way we can achieve our technical master plan.” He added.
Areas of learning included; theory of coaching, practical sessions, match analysis, leadership and management, sports science and nutrition, first aid and injuries, media relations, among others.
Class captain Badru Kaddu, who is also a coach at Express FC, said;
“We thank the Federation so much, and we ask you to convey our appreciation to the FUFA President Hon. Moses Magogo Hassim. We are very grateful to his great behind the scene work he did to see that these high level courses comeback to Uganda.”
“It had indeed taken us long without these courses and we are the first people to enjoy the new convention from CAF. We are not going to embarrass you.”
“It has been a long way – six months down the road when are studying. We came here half full, and we are now full of modern football knowledge. We are going to serve the country and uplift the standards of football going forward.”
Lead instructor Francis Kimanzi appealed to the coaches to remain relevant to football development.
“You are now the ambassadors for the next day. We have to be seen doing something good to open opportunities for the coaches behind us because it is not easy to get these high profile courses from CAF.”
“It involves a lot of hard work, lobbying and knocking on people’s doors. Let’s make it easy for the CEO to bring these courses here. This class of 24 coaches has to be seen doing good work out there, please don’t close that door by doing nothing.”
“Expound on the knowledge you have acquired here in the last six months. Keep the fire burning, make more research and rebuild yourself.”
“Education is not a guarantee to success. But we shall see the confidence you have, the way you package yourself, how you present yourself to the media. The confidence that you will bring to the touchline will tell something. I wish you the best.”
List of participants
Brian Sseyondo – Uganda Cubs
Kikomeko Abbey Bogere – BUL FC (Uganda)
Muhumuza Fred – Vipers SC (Uganda)
Ngabo Pius – UPDF (Uganda)
Luyinda John – Vpers (Uganda)
Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi – Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC (Uganda)
Kintu Jimmy Mwera – UCU Lady Cardinals /St. Noa (Uganda)
To ensure that every talent is given a chance, FUFA Executive Committee approved the organisation of Grade 4 Scouting Courses (Entry level into 3 layered scouting pathway) across all the 8 regions of FUFA with a base target of training, qualifying and equipping at least one grade 4 scout in each district of Uganda.
After a successful Grade 4 scouts’ course in Kampala Region, the next course will be organised in Western Regional Football Association, Mbarara City where a total of 40 candidates have been selected with at least one from the 17 Districts that make up the region.
FUFA President Hon. Moses Magogo has been stressing the fact that wherever there is football being played, there must be a qualified FUFA referee and it is in the same way FUFA wants to take to ensure there is a qualified grade 4 scout in every district where football especially for young boys and girls is played, those with potential shall be profiled and reported on the FUFA Talent ID platform.
Course Venue: Mbarara City Dates: 12th-13th December 2024
The Course will be conducted by Petros Koukouras from the FUFA Football Development Department
List of selected participants from all the Districts of Western Region
FUFA on Tuesday, 26th November 2024 held a football technical stakeholders’ meeting at Jevine Hotel in Kampala. The engagement saw several coaches, instructors and former player invited.
The meeting was attended by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha, FUFA Executive Committee Members Ronnie Kalema and Apollo Ahimbisibwe plus FUFA CEO Edgar Watson.
Also present was FIFA Regional Technical Consultant Dominique Niyionzima and FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe.
The day’s discussion hinged on creation of a pathway for an elite footballer, right from the age of 13 to life after football.
FUFA President indicated it is high time that the country changed the way footballers are developed in order to create a holistic player.
“As a Federation, we have registered success in the areas of governance and business but the pillar of sport had challenges. We therefore, took the initiative of creating a synchronized way of creating a proper life cycle of a player we want,” He said.
“We introduced the FUFA Technical Master Plan that covers a player’s life in four phases of mass football, elite football, professional football and life after football. At the moment, we have mass football projects going on but what brings us here today, is elite talent development.” The President added.
FIFA Regional Technical Consultant Dominique Niyionzima was full of praise for FUFA given the various efforts made at developing the game of football in Uganda.
“One thing that has defined FUFA is leadership. I oversee 13 countries in the region but it is the first time I’m seeing an FA President attending such an engagement and he is active throughout. I have had the privilege to look through the content in your Technical Master Plan and I believe this is the game changer for Ugandan football.” He said.
The engagement started with an open-discussion where participants shared their opinions and suggestions in regard to the five salient questions asked.
Thequestions
1 – Uganda in the past boosted of technically gifted players who featured for a long time. Why don’t we have such players today?
2 – Why have Ugandan players failed to make the grade in the top Leagues?
3 – Uganda used to have giant, tall and strong players. Why has this changed over the years?
4 – What is Uganda’s competitive advantage over other countries?
5 – What is the most suitable philosophy and playing style for Ugandan Football?
Later in the day, Petros Koukouras, a staff in the FUFA Football Development Department presented the new philosophy and football curriculum that FUFA is drafting and will be finalised soon.
There were further presentations by Executive Secretary of the Football Development Committee, Ronnie Kalema on the new coaching education changes.
Among the changes that FUFA wants to introduce is the new grading of coaches from 1-7. Consideration of Academic qualificiations, experience and other managerial courses inorder to create holistic football coaches.
Ali Mwebe, also made a presentation about the 12 Regional Centres of Football Excellence that FUFA is creating.
He revealed that FUFA will take care of the head coaches, provide balls, structured programmes, competitions and training gear among others.
FUFA’s efforts in redefining the game of football in Uganda continue to take shape by the day with numerous strategies set to achieve the aforementioned target.
Through the FUFA Technical Master Plan, FUFA seeks to cover four saliet areas namely; mass football, elite football, professional football and life after football.
With schools serving as the bedrock of football in Uganda, FUFA thought it wise to incorporate them at the different stages of the FUFA Technical Master Plan inorder to create a clear pathway of an elite player.
12 Government-aided Secondary Schools from all the 8 regions of FUFA were earmarked by the FUFA Executive Committee to serve as Centres of Football Excellence.
A one-day workshop was organised at Jevine Hotel in Kampala with FUFA meeting Head Teachers of the selected schools to explain more about the scheme.
Schools selected
Boys
Kibuli SS – Kampala Region Mvara SS – West Nile Region Teso College Aloet – North East Region Gombe SS – Buganda Region Nganwa High School – Western Region Kabalega SS – Kitara Region Jinja College – Eastern Region St. Josephs College Layibi – Northern Region
Girls
Kawempe Muslim SS – Kampala Region St. Katherine Girls – Northern Region Masaka SS – Buganda Region Nyakasura SS – Kitara Region
FUFA Executive Committee Member and Executive Secretary of the Football Development Commitee, Ronnie Kalema explained the synopsis of the Project and believes this move will help in transforming the game of football.
“FUFA has a vision of becoming the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch and that is further explained in our mission which is to develop, promote and protect football,” he said before adding, “Inorder to develop the game, FUFA took a bold step of formulating a strategy that we call the FUFA Technical Master Plan. This is a document that we have put together inorder to transform football in this country. It looks at a player from the age of 5 up to life after football.’
Dominique Niyionzima, the FIFA Regional Technical Consultant lauded FUFA and Uganda in general for the continued efforts in developing the game.
“I want to assure you that a few countries in Africa do what you are doing here. Football can only thrive where there is good governance and we really appreciate the progress you are making. To the schools, this is a good opportunity for you to contribute to the growth of football because majority of footballers horn their craft at schools.” He stated.
At the Centres of Football Excellence, FUFA will identify, support and pay the head coaches, provide training gear and organise competitions to help in nurturing of players.
Through the FUFA Talent ID framework where several scouts have been trained and designated to all districts in Uganda, talented players will be identified and placed at the respective regional centres of football excellence.
The Head Teachers and representatives of Schools who attended the meeting appreciated FUFA’s efforts in redefining the game of football and promised to embrace the new project.
“As Kibuli SS, we are proud that FUFA thought about the role we play as Schools. We have been working in isolation despite the fact that we are the breeding ground for players who go all the way to play for the national team. As Head Teachers of the selected schools, we shall rally behind FUFA on this Project and make sure we produce better and complete footballers.” Said Ibrahim Ssemakadde, the Head Teacher of Kibuli SS.
FUFA is in the process of formulating a football curriculum that will help in creating a national philosophy and playing style.
The FIFA Football For Schools Program successfully came to a climax in West Nile Region on Tuesday with over several Primary Schools benefiting.
FUFA and West Nile Regional Football Association extended the flagship grassroots project to 235 Primary schools who were ably represented by their games teachers.
The event two-day workshop took place in two shifts, starting on Monday 18th November 2024 at Nyarilo Primary School in Koboko District, hosting 113 schools games teachers from the Districts of Koboko (host),Yumbe, Moyo, Obongi, Adjumani and Maracha.
The following day, FUFA Technical team headed by Joan Namusisi and Peter Emojong headed to Arua City where Springs Primary School hosted 122 games teachers from 6 Districts namely; Arua, Terego, Pakwach, Nebbi, Zombo and Madi-okolo.
All the games teachers from those schools were trained under FIFA Football for Schools philosophy which introduces football basic skills and valuable educational life skills packaged in a digital FIFA Football for Schools Smartphone Application.
“Education is vitally important for any nation’s development especially when the country has one of the youngest populations in the world as Uganda does, FIFA Football for Schools will help with this mission using the power of football to teach important values to the young girls and boys and investing in Uganda’s future”. Said FIFA President Gianni Infantino
Key amongst the training topics is the concept Safeguarding of Children. FUFA Safeguarding trainer Phiona Nsubuga conducted sessions related to the concept which ensures a positive environment for participation of minors and everyone in the game of football.
235 schools from the above Districts were mobilized by the Regional Football Association leadership guided by the FUFA Executive Committee Member Rasoul Ariga as well as the Chairman of West Nile Region Football Association Fredrick Isaac Adde.
During mobilisation exercise, FUFA enjoyed the top most support and efforts of District Sports Officers of the respective Districts who supported participation of their respective schools.
The extension of FIFA Football for Schools from one FUFA Regional FA to another is following the commitment of FUFA as confirmed by FUFA President on the projects official launch which happened in June 2024 at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru in presence of FIFA and Government delegation.
On the day of the launch, the FUFA President noted that, “our intention as FUFA is make sure that every young boy and girl has access to playing football. In our Technical Master Plan, we have put keen attention to mass football and there is no better way to do it than having school-going children,”
Upon undertaking a full day training of FIFA football for schools philosophy which includes theory and practical sessions on the field as well as Safeguarding, games teachers are also introduced to the digital application which contains several football and life skills topics.
In the end, each school’s games teacher received a total 15 quality size 4 Adidas footballs that they will use back in their schools while training their players (boys and girls) under the football for schools’ philosophy.
The Project technical team is set to travel to Kitara Regional Football Association on Monday 25th November 2024 where a total of 200 primary schools shall be represented by their respective games teachers in two venues of Fortportal and Hoima on two separate days.
With an aim of training and installing utmost 1 Grade 4 Football Scout in each District of Uganda, in a bid to discover every talent, FUFA is set to extend 4 fully sponsored G4 Scouting Courses in 4 FUFA Regional Football Associations.
Talent identification is one of the key areas of elite football talent development as elaborated the FUFA Technical Master Plan.
The implementation of Talent identification is supported by FIFA under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), a development program setting high performance culture in Talent development eco-system.
The courses are set as follows;
Kampala Region: 27th -28th November 2024
West Nile Region: 02nd – 03rd December 2024
Western Region: 08th -09th December 2024
Buganda Region: 12th -13th December 2024
FUFA is inviting suitable candidates with football experience to apply for a few available for those Regions.
In 2025, the same course shall be extended in the remaining 4 FUFA Regional Football Associations of North East, Eastern, Northern Region and Kitara.
Following a successful launch of FUFA Talend ID Framework on September 27th by the FUFA President at FUFA (https://fufauganda.com/talent-id-framework-launched/) ,FUFA under the football development department has started the first ever Football Scouting Course at FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.
The course is a 16-hours’ Grade 4 Scouts Qualification that is blended with class, field practice and video review sessions for talent scouting purposes. During the course, a practice match of U14 players from Rays of Grace shall play a demonstration match where each of the 24 trainee scouts shall be assigned a player from the team lists to scout on. Thereafter, a video match featuring U15 National youth team match shall be watched by participants for understanding the alternative of scouting from a video as well.
Participants attending the course are invitees from all the 8 FUFA Regional Football Associations making a total of 24.
FUFA Talent ID framework is part of FUFA Technical Master Plan 2023-2030 and forms a base of talent pathway where identification is the premier function before being channelled into elite development path.
The program is funded under FIFA Talent Development Scheme, a dedicated support program for talent development from FIFA that was initiated following the Analysis of Global Talent Eco-system by FIFA in all its member association with an aim of “increasing global competitiveness”
Under FUFA Talent ID Framework, FUFA aims to train and install at least one football scout in each of the District in Uganda where every talent shall be given a chance. A fully dedicated online platform that scouts shall be accessing to profile scouted talent has been designed and its up and running.
As part of the course in Njeru, trainee scouts shall be taken through the platform before each returning to his/her Region with access credentials on the system. They will then start right away to scout from the various FUFA Organized competitions (done by FUFA and its members) as well as FUFA Authorized Competitions (done by the various entities outside FUFA Membership)
The course is being facilitated by Petros Koukouras, a staff in the Football Development department at FUFA, Ali Mwebe -the FUFA Football Development Director and FUFA Education Officer Jackson Nyima.
List of participants
1. Kintu Nimrod
2. Nandala Nassur
3. Gama Henry
4. Sserumaga Peter
5. Nsobya Mark
6. Omara Francis
7. Imran Mpaata
8. Opio Richard
9. Ndayambaze Alex
10. Issa Ssempijja
11. Kibina Stephen
12. Nassiwa Claire
13. Nayebare Anitah
14. Papira Anthony
15. Muwanguzi Joel
16. Kakuddu Frank
17. Murungi Diana
18. Vudriko Vincent
19. Waiswa Hamuza
20. Masembe Adam
21. Nkojo Kenneth
22. Eliatu Joy
23. Etyang Silver
24. Muktar Omar
A number of technical initiatives to develop the scouted talent boys and girls are under design and these include;
National football philosophy
Player development curriculum
Regional training centres
“FIFA has created a golden opportunity of the annual FIFA U17 World cup for men and women national teams and moreover expanded in number, as member associations, we have to position ourselves to grab this opportunity, one of the ways of getting FUFA set for this opportunity is to get the talent at appropriate age for development, this is why we have championed FUFA Talent ID Framework as one of the TMP projects and FIFA TDS” said Ali Mwebe FUFA Football Development Director
“We therefore implore our first ever 24 trained and qualified Grade 4 scouts to return to their Regions and start giving the talented boys and girls a chance”
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has launched the Talent ID Framework, which focuses on four objectives: Scouts education and development Pathway, reaching every Talent from Everywhere, Connection to Talent Development pathways and ICT Integration in scouting process.
The event, which took place at the FUFA Complex, was graced by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Executive Committee Member in charge of Football Development Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, Football Development Director Ali Mwebe, Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, among others.
FUFA TID Framework is part of integration of FIFA Talent Development Schemes (TDS) the specific high performance football development program aimed at “increasing global competitiveness” that followed the global football talent eco-system analysis conducted by FIFA on member associations in 2020
The FIFA TDS sets a high-performance youth football development environment for talented young boys and girls with a theme of “giving every talent a chance”. FIFA through the High-Performance Unit of the Global Football Development Department under Arsene Wenger the FIFA Chief of Global Football Development is very close to us with technical support in terms of Education, technical consultancy and expertise as well as financial support in coming up with these high-performance football development projects like the TID framework launched today.
Ali Mwebe, Football Development Director
While addressing the audience, the FUFA CEO informed attendees that new staff have been recruited to manage development—Petros Koukouras, Technical Development Staff, and Brian Umony, Pro-Football Development Manager.
"Today is a very important day that we launch and comply with what FIFA expects of us, the Talent ID Framework. At the secretariat, we have new additions—Petros Koukouras, Technical Development Staff and Brian Umony, Pro-Football Development Manager" — Edgar Watson, FUFA CEO pic.twitter.com/oYt50HofpU
Ronnie Kalema, the Executive Committee Member in charge of Football Development, reiterated the FUFA President’s 2021-2025 manifesto, stating that he had a document to implement concerning Football on the Pitch. He noted that strides are being made, including capacity-building activities, and now another aspect of it is ready for the country.
"Today we are here to tell the Country that we can identify that young player." — Ronnie Kalema, FUFA Executive Committee Member pic.twitter.com/blbAiCE41Q
The FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, emphasised the importance of mass football for effective talent identification.
We can only identify talent when there is mass football. When someone is 10 years old, FUFA must have a system in place to identify and develop them.
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA President
In addition, he highlighted that the Federation has plans to work with players nearing the end of their careers, as well as those who have retired, to prepare them for new opportunities that are emerging.
We want to work with players about to finish and those that have finished to prepare them for the positions that are coming up.
Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, FUFA President
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.
