Two Ugandan officials Humphrey Mandu Watenga and Jamil Ssewanyana are some of the facilitators at the inaugural CAF regional safety and security workshop.
This workshop will take place between 2nd and 3rd December 2020 – via zoom with the theme ‘Promoting Stadium Safety and Security’.
Ssewanyana who is also the managing director of Mandela National Stadium, Namboole will handle the topic of ‘Ticketing and public access to the stadium’ on the opening day.
Jamil Ssewanyana (Left)Mandu issues instructions to FUFA Security officials at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru during the play-offs
Mandu will facilitate on the topic of ‘Prohibited items – Pyrotechnics’ on the closing day.
Other topics of discussion will include; challenges of safety and security in Africa, stewarding, crowd management, planning for emergencies and contingencies like evacuation; Accreditation, zoning and zone control mechanisms, safety and security considerations under COVID-19, importance of calculating maximum safe capacity, among others.
The workshop will entail the national safety and security officer, premier league safety and security manager, CEO Premier League, CEO Second League as well as the second League Safety and Security Manager.
Abdul Lukooya Sekabira is the national safety and security officer, Gordon Roy Mundeyi is the premier league safety and security manager, Bainamani Bernard Bampaire (CEO Premier League), Aisha Nalule (CEO Second League) and Azed Mansoor Kimumwe is the Second League Safety and Security Manager.
In a bid to deliver Integrity, Fitness and Performance (IFP), Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) held an integrated training for FIFA and FUFA Referees.
The training was hosted at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo in Kampala, the home of KCCA Football Club on Monday, 1st December 2020.
Retired FIFA Referees Ali Kalyango, Ali Tomusange and Catherine Adipo brief the refereesAssistant Referees on duty during the training
According to the chairperson of the Referees Association who is also a member of the FUFA Executive Ronnie Kalema, the purpose of this training was to assess the fitness levels of the referees ahead of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League kick-off this Wednesday, 3rd November 2020.
‘The exercise of the integrated training for our FIFA and FUFA Referees progressed well. We are ready to deliver in the top tier league’ Kalema stated.
Referees also were tested for COVID-19
A total of 50 attended the exercise and all the referees were tested for COVID-19 which is a requirement by the Government of Uganda.
COMPETITION: U-17 Total CAF Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers
DATE: 13 – 28, December 2020
HOST: Rwanda.
The U-17 qualifiers will attract 9 countries distributed into three groups.
Group A: Rwanda, Eritrea and South Sudan
Group B: Uganda, Ethiopia and Kenya
Group C: Sudan, Djibouti and Tanzania
Uganda National U-17 team (The Cubs) will travel to Rwanda early next month to play in the zonal qualifiers tournament of CAF U17 from 13-28 of December 2020.
The team has been in camp in Njeru for close to a month now and all the members on the squad right there from the technical department to the playing staff are ready for the task ahead.
Here is what some of the players on the team are saying ahead of the tournament’s commencement.
Simon Mukisa, defender
SIMON MUKISA (DEFENDER):
‘We are doing our best in training as we prepare for the task ahead and always coach gives us confidence in everything we do. He’s teaching us different drills during training like working on accuracy while passing the ball as well as getting behind the ball if we lost it. So it is a matter of self-confidence that can lead us to success.’
Oscar Mawa, forward
OSCAR MAWA (FORWARD):
‘I have played for various sides but I have never got this unity anywhere before like it is in this team. And also what amuses me most is that if we have a problem we sit as a team right from the technical down to the players and we solve it and this has helped us a lot. I thank the coach so much because he has advised us a lot on what to do when it comes to individual discipline and sports technicalities.’
Basil Tenywa Tamu
BASIL TENYWA TAMU (RIGHT WINGER):
‘I think this is a big opportunity for us as a team, we must use it well to sell our identity out there. I know Zonal qualifiers are into our way but our target is beyond this. We have a challenge that was set by our predecessors in the previous campaign and we can never go for less apart from winning it again. So it’s now or never because opportunity has come and it only comes once. I look forward to maintain my personal standards by listening to what coaches say and I feel that is the only way to go if I want to achieve success.’
UK Based Basil Tenywa Tamu during a demonstration in some of the off-field sessions at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
CECAFA U-20 CHALLENGE CUP 2020 (AFCON U-20 Qualifier):
1st Semi-final: Uganda 3-1 Kenya
2nd Semi-final: Tanzania 1-0 South Sudan
Uganda U-20 team (The Hippos) has qualified for the AFCON U-20 finals in Mauritania.
The development comes after a convincing 3-1 win over Kenya in the first of the semi-final clashes at the Black Rhino Academy sports stadium in Karatu, Tanzania.
Striker Ivan Bogere scored twice, including a kick from the penalty mark to compliment defender Kenneth Semakula’s opener.
Action between Uganda Hippos and Kenya on Monday. Uganda won 3-1
Half time had ended 2-0 in favour of Morley Byekwaso’s charges.
Enock Wanyama scored a late consolation for Kenya inside the goal area.
Uganda seals the berth to the AFCON finals and awaits the hosts Tanzania.
Tanzania, who are also the tournament defending champions beat South Sudan 1-0 in the second game on the day at the same venue.
Kassim Harunah scored the lone strike in the 56th minute.
The final game of the tournament as well as the third place play off will be played on Wednesday, 2nd December 2020.
Uganda Hippos players in a talk sessionSteven Sserwaada in action
Another weekend full of action it was for a number of Ugandan players in the diaspora.
It saw a number of players take part in the CAF Champions League and confederation cup as as the Kenya Premier League 2020/21 season that officially kicked off.
In the English Premier League2 U23, Jayden Roy Onen played full time and netted in the 75th minute as his Reading U23 side beat Middlesborough 3-2 on the road.
Jayden Onen was on the mark for Reading U23
In the Kenya Premier League match day1, midfielder Hashim Sempala was captain as his Tusker FC side lost 2-1 at AFC Leopards. Custodian Benjamin Ochan didn’t feature for Leopards.
Midfielder Hashim Sempala skippered Tusker FC as they lost 2-1 at AFC Leopards.
Winger Peter Lwasa started as his Kariobangi Sharks side beats Wazito FC 4-0.
Yusuf Mukisa wasn’t in the match day squad as his Nairobi City stars beat Nzoia Sugars 2-0 at home.
William Wadri and Fred Nkata weren’t in the match day squad as their Bandari FC side defeated Sofapaka FC 1-0 at home.
In the Swedish Supprettan, forward Alexis Bbakka returned from Injury as a 75th minute substitute for Raaholt as his Umea FC side drew goalless against Vasteras FC.
In the Czech Republic second division, Isaac Muleme played full time as his Zizkov side lost lost 2-0 at home to Dukla Prague.
Muleme played full time despite Zizkov lost is the Czech Republic second division
In DRC, Joseph Ochaya played full time as his TP Mazembe side beat Sanga Belende 2-0.
In the Estonia Meistrilliga, Edrisa Lubega wasn’t in the match day squad as his Paide Linameskond side was crushed 7-1 at home to Flora.
In the Turkish Premier League, Miya Faruku came on in the 46th minute for Hadziahmetovic as his Konyaspor FC side lost 1-0 at Alanyaspor.
In the Danish Premier League, Robert Kakeeto came on in the 86th minute as his Aalborg FC drew 1-1 at defending champions Midtjylland.
Elsewhere, Moses Opondo was introduced in the 22nd minute as his Odense FC side lost 2-1 at Randers FC.
In the South African PSL, Denis Onyango kept a clean sheet as his Mamelodi Sundowns side beat Stellenbosch 3-0 at home.
Moses Waiswa was an unused substitute as his Supersport United side beat Maritzburg United 2-1 on the road.
In the English Championship, Karl Mubiru Ikepeauzi wasn’t in the match day squad due to injury as his drew 1-1 at Derby County.
In the English League 2, Elvis Bwomono played full time as his Southend United side lost 3-0 at Bolton.
In Zambia, Paul Musamaali wasn’t in the match day squad as his Buidcon FC side lost 2-1 at home to Lumwana Radiant.
In the Portuguese Segunda, Alex Kakuba was an unused substitute as his CD Cova Piedade drew 0-0 at home to Feirense.
In the Scotish League cup, Bevis Mugabi player full time as his Motherwell FC side lost 2-1 at home to St. Johnstone.
In the Algerian Premier League, Allan Okello didn’t feature as his Paradou AC side drew 1-1 at Relizane.
In Israel, Luwagga Kizito played full time upfront as his Hapoel Kfar Saba lost 3-0 on the road to Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile Timothy Awany played full time while Bayo Fahad was substituted in the 71st minute as their Ashdod FC side lost 1-0 at Sakhnin.
CAF Champions League.
Custodian Salim Jamal was an unused substitute as his Al Hilal Omdurman side beat Vipers SC 1-0 on the road in the first leg.
Elkana Nkuggwa didn’t feature as his club Mogadishu City FC lost 2-0 in Nigeria against Sonidep.
Custodian Mathias Kigonya played full time as his Forest Rangers side drew 0-0 at home to Gabon’s Bouenguidi in the first leg.
Allan Brian Kizza played full time as his Le Messager Ngozi drew 0-0 at Swaziland’s Young Bufaloes. Defender Steven Mugisha wasn’t in the match day squad.
CAF Confederation Cup.
Defender Joseph Othieno played full time as his Musongati FC drew 2-2 at home against Zambia’s Green Eagles.
Lawrence Nduga was introduced in the second half as his Orapa United beat Rwanda’s AS Kigali 2-1 at home.
Coach Alex Isabirye was on the touchline as his Somalian side Horseed FC lost 4-1 at Libya’s Al Ittihad.
Uganda Vs Kenya – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (12 PM) *Live on 102.1 FUFA f.m
Tanzania Vs South Sudan – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (3:30 PM)
The Uganda U-20 Head Coach Morley Byekwaso has confirmed the starting eleven against Kenya during the first semi-final of the CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup at the Black Rhino Academy stadium in Karatu on Monday afternoon.
There is one change to the team that beat Burundi 6-1 last Wednesday.
Defender Musa Ramathan returns to the starting line up since the opening game when he was sent off against South Sudan.
Gavin Kizito Mugweri will once again lead the Uganda Hippos
The defence has Musa, team captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Aziz Kayondo and Kenneth Ssemakula.
The midfield is having Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga and Steven Sserwadda.
Ivan Bogere leads the line as the sole striker.
Uganda – Kenya kicks off by noon ahead of the second semi-final between Tanzania and South Sudan at 3:30 p.m.
The two finalists will thus make the grade for the AFCON U-20 finals that will be staged in Mauritania come 2021.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso briefs the players
Uganda U-20 Vs Kenya: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Musa Ramathan, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga, Ivan Bogere, Steven Sserwadda
Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Faisal Wabyoona, Joseph Kafumbe, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Raymond Onyai, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Ivan Asaba
Uganda Vs Kenya – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (12 PM)
Tanzania Vs South Sudan – Black Rhino Academy, Karatu (3:30 PM)
Uganda U-20 team (The Hippos) return to action on Monday, 30th November 2020 in the semi-finals of the 2020 CECAFA U-20 challenge Cup in Tanzania.
The Hippos take on Kenya at the Black Rhino Academy stadium in Karatu during the early kick off at noon of the double header.
At stake is a slot for the finals of the AFCON U-20 Championship that will be hosted by Mauritania next year.
Morley Byekwaso, Uganda U-20 head coach asserts that they are ready for the match and will give 100 percent in the match.
Uganda Hippos XI Vs Burundi. The Hippos won 6-1 with the goals coming from Ivan Bogere (2), Isma Mugulusi (2), Najib Yiga and Joseph Kizza Bukenya
‘We are prepared to give 100 percent. Since the 6-1 win against Burundi, the players have had enough rest and focused for the semi-final clash. Kenya plays a physical game but we are ready to counter them’ Byekwaso disclosed.
Uganda U-20 Head Coach Morley Byekwaso
Defending champions and hosts Tanzania will face South Sudan in the second game at 3:30 pm.
Uganda topped group B and face Kenya who were top of group C.
Tanzania were the group A leaders and take on South Sudan, who finished second behind Uganda in group B.
Uganda held their final training session at the Jafaary Academy in Arusha on Sunday morning before embarking on a 2 and half hour journey to Karatu, the venue of the match on Monday.
In Karatu, the team is accommodated at Bougainvillea Safari Lodge.
All the players for Uganda are fit with no injuries in the camp.
COMPETITION: U-17 Total CAF Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers
DATE: 13 – 28, December 2020
HOST: Rwanda.
The U-17 qualifiers will attract 9 countries divided into three groups.
Group A: Rwanda, Eritrea and South Sudan
Group B: Uganda, Ethiopia and Kenya
Group C: Sudan, Djibouti and Tanzania.
The days to the kickoff of the long waited U17 CAF AFCON Zonal Qualifiers in Rwanda next month are getting closer.
Head coach Hamuza Lutalo is confident that the team is ready ahead of the tournament’s kick-off having trained for some good time.
‘We thank FUFA for giving us ample time to prepare. As of now we have a team in place that can compete’ noted Hamuza Lutalo.
Uganda U-17 head coach Hamuza LutaloU-17 players in a ball work session at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
‘In the remaining days, we shall concentrate on a few aspects for players to master but we are good to go, I should say. Of course we wanted to have some friendly matches to give us a clear picture of the team we intend to use in the tournament but we have Corona Virus challenges so its hard to play against other teams that are not tested.’ he added.
Uganda Cubs is currently at the FUFA Technical Center where they have been since 6th November 2020.
The team is expected to fly to Rwanda on December 9, to defend the championship they won in 2018 after beating Ethiopia 3-1 in finals that were held in Tanzania.
According to the regional football governing body CECAFA, the U-17 qualifiers will take place in Rwanda from 13 – 28 December 2020.
The U-17 qualifiers will attract 9 countries divided into three groups. Hosts Rwanda is pitted with Eritrea and South Sudan in group A, while reigning champion Uganda is in group B with Ethiopia and Kenya dubbed to be group of death and group C constitutes of Sudan, Djibouti and Tanzania
The two finalists in the tournament will have booked an automatic ticket to the U17 Total Afcon finals in Morocco.
Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has introduced an on-line Competitions Management System (CMS).
This is a system that will enable referees and assistants to report about the match out-come instantly.
Training for the referees and assistants started on Thursday, 26th November 2020 at FUFA House.
According to the FUFA Deputy CEO – Football, Decolas Kiiza Hantali, the system will enhance the referees’ reporting formats and improve the integrity of the competitions held.
‘Training for Competitions management system training for referees and assistant referees who will officiate the first and second divisions in the season 2020-21 has commenced. The system will enhance referees’ reporting formats and improve on the integrity of our competitions. This is an online system as it is done in the international competitions and this will apply in our domestic competitions. Referees are appointed through the system and reports through the same system. We will require two major reports; the flash system (major highlights of the match) with 12 hours and the comprehensive report with 24 hours. We thank the FUFA IT department management that has designed this system and pray that it bears the fruits we anticipate especially of improving the integrity of our competitions.’ Decolas Kiiza Hantali, Deputy FUFA CEO – Football.
The system was designed by the FUFA Information Technology (IT) Department.
CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup (AFCON U-20 Qualifiers): Uganda 6-1 Burundi
Uganda Hippos have registered an overwhelming 6-1 victory against Burundi during a group B clash of the 2020 CECAFA U-20 Challenge Cup at the Shiekh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha on Wednesday.
Uganda’s goals came from two braces apiece by Ivan Bogere and Isma Mugulusi with Najib Yiga and second half substitute Joseph Kizza Bukenya completing the rout.
Uganda U-20 players pray before the match
The Hippos’ technical department headed by Morley Byekwaso called for three changes in the game.
Raymond Onyai, Joseph Kizza Bukenya and Alpha Thierry Ssali replaced Richard Basangwa, Ivan Asaba and Najib Yiga respectively.
The Hippos succumbed to a late consolation goal on the stroke of full-time.
Uganda now has 4 points from 2 matches ahead of the final group B match on Friday when South Sudan takes on Burundi at the same venue.
The top placed team qualifies for the Semi finals. Uganda will now keep an eye on the final group match between South Sudan and Burundi for a place in the last four stage.
On Monday, a 10 man Uganda Hippos’ side had registered a goal-less draw with South Sudan.
Uganda Hippos XI Vs Burundi
Uganda U-20 XI Vs Burundi: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa (Raymond Onyai), Najib Yiga (85′ Alpha Thierry Ssali), Ivan Bogere, Ivan Asaba (Joseph Kizza Bukenya)
Changes:
Raymond Onyai For Richard Basangwa
Joseph Kizza Bukenya For Ivan Asaba
Alpha Thierry Ssali For Najib Yiga
Subs Not Used: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Ashiraf Mulindi, Faisal Wabyoona, Joseph Kafumbe
Wednesday, 25th November 2020 – Uganda U-20 Vs Burundi U-20 (Group B)
At Shiekh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha – 1 PM (Live commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m)
The Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso has confirmed the starting eleven against Burundi in the AFCON U-20 qualifiers (CECAFA Zone) group B encounter.
There are two changes in the team that picked a point off South Sudan on Monday.
With defender Musa Ramathan suspended, Isma Mugulusi and Ivan Bogere have been introduced as Raymond Onyai comes to the substitutes’ bench.
The other 9 players who started against South Sudan in the goal-less draw all start.
The Uganda Hippos players in pre-match talk session on Wednesday morning
Goalkeeper Jack Komakech, defenders Gavin Kizito Mugweri (captain), Azizi Kayondo and Kenneth Semakula are at the back.
Others are Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa, Isma Mugulusi, Bogere and Ivan Asaba.
Uganda needs maximum points for a chance to make it to the semi-finals.
Uganda U-20 XI Vs Burundi: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Semakula, Isma Mugulusi, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Richard Basangwa, Najib Yiga, Ivan Bogere, Ivan Asaba
Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona, Raymond Onyai, Joseph Kafumbe
CECAFA U20 CHALLENGE CUP (Group B): South Sudan 0-0 Uganda
South Sudan and Uganda U-20 national teams played to a non scoring draw in group B of the CECAFA Challenge Cup U-20 at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha on Monday.
Since the 35th minute of the game, Uganda played with 10 men following a direct red card to defender Musa Ramathan.
Before the send-off, Uganda was dominant and came close to scoring through Richard Basangwa in the 10th minute.
Richard Basangwa in action
Ivan Asaba, Bobosi Byaruhanga and second half substitute Ivan Bogere were also close.
Bogere had the very last attempt at goal flying over with a with time half volley.
Uganda will have a day’s rest before taking on Burundi on Wednesday, 25th November 2020.
Ramathan is expected to sit out the game against Burundi.
Uganda U20 XI
Uganda U-20 XI: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Musa Ramathan, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga (88′ Joseph Kafumbe), Richard Basangwa (85′ Isma Mugulusi), Raymond Onyai (62′ Ivan Bogere), Ivan Asaba
Subs Not Used: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona
The match referees with the team captains
Match Officials:
Centre Referee: Saddam Houssein Mansour (Djibouti)
Assistant Referee 1: Abdi Mohamed Nour (Somalia)
Assistant Referee 2: Liban Abdourazak Ahmed (Djibouti)
Fourth Official: Ahmed Hassan Hussein Ahmed (Somalia)
Commissioner: Omar Mohamoud Nor (Somalia)
Referee Assessor: Leslie Leonard Liunda (Tanzania)
General Coordinator: Baraka Kizuguto (Tanzania)
Technical Study Group: Tewodros Franco Karoni (Ethiopia)
Media Officer: Ramadhani Kibuga (Burundi)
Security Officer: Hashim Abdallah (Tanzania)
Assistant General Coordinator: Yacoub Ali Elmi (Djibouti)
The strategic framework of FUFA administration since 2013 has seen the creation of (8) key focus areas aimed at realizing the FUFA Vision and Mission.
Among them, is Football Development that covers areas which were struggling previously.
Initially it was called the Technical Department before changes were made in 2018 renaming it Football Development Department which now has four full time staff to handle football matters in; Youth Football, Women Football, Capacity Building, Refereeing Development, Sports Science, Beach Soccer and Futsal.
Vipers Junior Team Ivan Ashaba in action against Onduparaka Junior Team during the 2018 FUFA Juniors League final
The past 96 years of FUFA’s history have witnessed the growth of the game under various leaders. FUFA has grown spontaneously right from the first President of the federation Sekabakka Daudi Chwa II to the current head (27th FUFA President) Eng. Moses Magogo.
All the leaders have immensely contributed to the game.
The creation of the FUFA Juniors League in 2015 provided a platform of a young and vibrant staff at FUFA Bashir Mutyaba to take charge of a project that many thought would suffer still birth. It is a league designed to cater for players under the age of 17.
FUFA Youth Development Officer Bashir Mutyaba receives a plaque from the FUFA President Eng. Moses MagogoFUFA Youth Development Officer Bashir Mutyaba receives the fair play award on behalf of Paidha Black Angels FC Junior Team
The story has since changed as products of the project are so many to give testimony.
Mutyaba is the FUFA Youth Development Manager who works under the supervision of FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe.
In a detailed interview with www.fufa.co.ug, Mutyaba notes that FUFA’s is to be the Number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field.
He is currently coordinating the U17 National team preparing for the CAF U17 CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers due next month in Rwanda as he also keeps a close eye on what is happening in Tanzania where Uganda entered a team in the CECAFA U20 tournament-another continental qualifiers tournament.
Bashir Mutyaba
FUFA media brings you the excerpts from the interview with Mutyaba-the CAF B Licensed coach.
What is the value of youth football development programs in Uganda?
Bashir Mutyaba: FUFA has a strategic plan and football development is one of its focus areas.
We have youth football falling in this department and we are looking at ensuring that all youth players are given opportunity to be developed from a young age and getting exposure through the youth national teams.
We have an objective of ensuring that we engage them in as many youth competitions as possible at both domestic and international level.
We need to nurture them to ensure a strong foundation and final product for Ugandan football and Uganda Cranes.
KJT won the inagural edition of the FUFA Juniors League in 2015
Vipers SC JT players lifting the 2017/2018 Juniors League Trophy at the StarTimes Stadium Lugogo in June
Why has FUFA given these two teams-U17 and U-20 ample time for camping?
Bashir Mutyaba: We aredefending champions of the zonal qualifiers that were hosted in 2018 by Tanzania.
We are preparing these boys to ensure that first of all we defend the trophy they won in 2018 during the zonal qualifiers when Uganda qualified for the very first time to the AFCON U17 Finals.
It was prudent for us to ensure that the coaches and players get ample time so that we go and give our best during the tournament and also qualify for the U17 AFCON 2021 and the U-20 tournament.
What targets do you have for the youth projects?
Bashir Mutyaba: We have several targets and one of them is empowering the Talent Identification System which will help us pick on the best of the best to help them develop further through the youth national teams.
Uganda U17 players celebrating after winning the CAF U17 regional qualifiers in Dar es Salaam Tanzania
What targets has FUFA set for the U17 team ahead of the forthcoming AFCON/CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers?
Bashir Mutyaba: We are going for nothing but trophy since we are the defending champions. We have no shortcut. We need to ensure that first of all we win the championship as well qualify. The coaches are very much aware that their target is to help the team to qualify for the AFCON U17 2021 that will be held in Morocco.
Comment about age cheating in Africa and how it has affected the growth of the game?
Bashir Mutyaba: Age cheating has been a challenge for youth football in Africa for several years.
Several teams have been eliminated in championships simply because of age cheating.
FUFA ensures that we eliminate the vice.
Our programs like the FUFA Juniors league help us to screen the players before they engage in any youth competition.
Uganda Cubs forward Rogers Mugisha taking on a Cameroon player in a Group 2 match of UEFA Assist U17 International Tournament in Turkey
We have set up a data base of information about all youth players in Uganda.
We ensure that we collect information about the players, their age, background to avoid challenges related to the vice that stunts the growth of the game.
Where do you see Uganda in the next five years with these youth projects?
Bashir Mutyaba: FUFA’s vision is to become the number one football Nation in Africa on and off the field.
The youth projects are getting support from the FUFA Executive and FIFA. The future is bright with our youth programmes.
We shall conquer Africa soon.
Bashir Mutyaba
FUFA Achievements
Youth Football
Recruited a full time FUFA Youth Football Development Manager to majorly handle the FUFA Youth Project that has the element of Youth Competitions (FUFA U17 Juniors League, Odilo), Drassroots football, Academies, National Junior teams, National football player development curriculum and Talent Identification.
Continued to partner and provide technical support to organisers of youth competitions like Copa and Airtel Rising Stars
Trained over 50 FUFA Juniors League coaches under the FIFA Youth Coaches Programme
Entered Teams for all International Youth Football Tournaments ( CECAFA, CAF and FIFA)
Created a pool of 400 players who feature in the FUFA Juniors League every season.
Over 150 players have graduated from the FUFA Juniors League to the Senior (Professionals Leagues).
The collection of players’ data at various tournaments has reduced the vice of age cheating in our competitions.
Introduction of National Football player Development curriculum
Creation of FUFA Registered Academy Rules and Regulations
Establishment of a Talent Identification system.
Champions of CECAFA U17 CAF Zonal qualifiers
Qualified for AFCON U17 in 2018 for the very first time in Ugandan football history.
Champions of the inaugural CECAFA U15 Championship 2019
Bridged the gap between Uganda Youth Football Association and FUFA
Provided Technical and Financial support to organizers of youth football competitions
Established pilot projects for U15 League in Kampala and Buganda regions
Decentralization of the FUFA Juniors League to regional level to attract more youth players, youth coaches thus enhancing development of youth football country wide.
Uganda U17 captain Garvin Kizito Mugweri receiving the CAF U17 qualifier trophy after defeating Ethiopia in the final. Kizito and several other players have since graduated to the U-20 team
South Sudan Vs Uganda – Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium, Arusha (4 PM)
*Live Commentary on 102.1 FUFA f.m
The Uganda U-20 head coach Morley Byekwaso has named the starting XI against South Sudan in the AFCON U-20 (CECAFA Zone) qualifier.
Jack Komakech starts between the posts with a three man defence of captain Gavin Kizito Mugweri, Kenneth Ssemakula and Musa Ramathan.
A compact midfield of four has Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga and Azizi Kayondo.
The forwards selected to start the match are Richard Basangwa, Raymond Onyai and Ivan Asaba.
The poster boy is Ivan Asaba who has been named to start the match in the three man attack
This match kicks off at 4 PM at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha city.
The centre referee is Saddam Houssein Mansour from Djibouti.
Somalia’s Abdi Mohamed Nour and Liban Abdourazak Ahmed from Djibouti are the first and second assistant referees respectively.
The football radio 102.1 FUFA f.m will relay live the proceedings of the game.
Uganda U-20 XI: Jack Komakech (G.K), Gavin Kizito Mugweri (Captain), Aziz Kayondo, Kenneth Ssemakula, Musa Ramathan, Bobosi Byaruhanga, Steven Sserwadda, Najib Yiga, Richard Basangwa, Raymond Onyai, Ivan Asaba
Subs: Denis Ssenyondwa Kaala (G.K), Richard Bbosa, Joseph Kafumbe, Isma Mugulusi, Joseph Kizza Bukenya, Ashiraf Mulindi, Alpha Thierry Ssali, Faisal Wabyoona, Ivan Bogere
Match Officials:
Centre Referee: Saddam Houssein Mansour (Djibouti)
Assistant Referee 1: Abdi Mohamed Nour (Somalia)
Assistant Referee 2: Liban Abdourazak Ahmed (Djibouti)
Fourth Official: Ahmed Hassan Hussein Ahmed (Somalia)
Commissioner: Omar Mohamoud Nor (Somalia)
Referee Assessor: Leslie Leonard Liunda (Tanzania)
General Coordinator: Baraka Kizuguto (Tanzania)
Technical Study Group: Tewodros Franco Karoni (Ethiopia)
Media Officer: Ramadhani Kibuga (Burundi)
Security Officer: Hashim Abdallah (Tanzania)
Assistant General Coordinator: Yacoub Ali Elmi (Djibouti)
Following the international break, a number of football leagues world over returned that witnessed Ugandan players feature.
Here is a compilation of how the different Ugandans attached to several clubs fared.
In the Israel Ligat Ha’Al, forward Bayo Fahad was put in the match day squad hours after returning from international duty.
He was introduced in the 76th minute for Yehezkel as his Ashdod FC side beat Hapoel Beer Sheva 2-0 at home.
However, defender Timothy Awany did not make the match day squad since he was still in transit.
‘I thank God for the win because we need it badly as a team and about being drafted in the team hours upon return just shows the trust and confidence the team has in me and I hope we can go on and win more games as a team.’ Bayo told FUFA media.
Midfielder William Luwagga Kizito was an used substitute as his Hapoel Kfar Saba lost 0-1 at home to Sakhnin.
During the South African top tier league, midfielder Moses Waiswa yet again started the game for SuperSport United who lost it late 2-1 at Orlando Pirates.
Waiswa was withdrawn in the 60th minute for Webber.
Moses Waiswa in action for SuperSport United against Orlando Pirates
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Denis Onyango was not in the match day squad as his Mamelodi Sundowns side won 4-3 against Amazulu.
In the Czech Republic second division, Isaac Muleme played full time as his Zizkov side beat Lisen 3-1 at home in a game he saw yellow in the 64th minute.
Farouk Miya
In Turkey, Miya Farouk started before paving way for Hadziahmetovic in the 46th minute as his Konyaspor FC side beat Kasimpasa 2-1 at home.
During the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Linafoot League, left back Joseph Benson Ochaya was an unused substitute as his TP Mazembe side drew 1-1 against Lupopo.
Joseph Benson Ochaya with the TP Mazembe teammates in the stands
Striker, Edrisa Lubega came on in the 76th minute for Owusu Sekyere as his Paide Linameskond drew 2-2 at Levadia in the the Estonia Meistrilliga,
Midfielder Robert Kakeeto was not in the match day squad as his Aalborg FC side drew 1-1 against Nordsjaelland during the Danish Premier League.
Elsewhere, Moses Opondo did not make the match day squad due to injury as his Odense FC side drew 1-1 against Sonderjyske.
In Burundi, midfielder Allan Brian Kiiza and defender Steven Mugisha featured as their Le Messager Ngozi beat Atletico Olympic 1-0.
Defender Joseph Othieno also featured as his Musongati FC side Muzinga 0-3 on the road.
In England, striker Karl Mubiru Ikpeazu was not in the match day squad because of injury as his Wycombe Wanderers side drew 0-0 against Brentford during a championship duel.
Defender Ronald Mukiibi came on in the 82nd minute for Ouattara andIsak Ssewankambo started in midfield before coming off in the 58th minute for Awad as their Ostersunds FK side lost 4-0 at home to Varbergs during the Swedish Allsvenskun league contests.
Isak Ssewankambo in action
Forward Alexis Bbakka was not in the match day squad due to injury as his Umea FC side succumbed to 6-0 loss at Norrby during the Swedish Supprettan.
In the Scottish Premier League, Bevis Mugabi returned from injury and played full time as his Motherwell FC side drew 1-1 at St Johnstone.
Bevis Mugabi
Left back, Alex Kakuba featured as his CD Cova Piedade progressed to the next round in Portguese FA Cup.
This was after defeating Marinhense 5-3 on penalties following a one all draw in normal time.
In Tanzania, Nicholas Wadada was an unused substitute as his Azam FC side lost 1-0 away to KMC.
Boban Zirintusa wasn’t in the match day squad as his Mtibwa Sugars side drew 0-0 at TZ Prisons.
In Guinea, custodian Robert Odongkara wasn’t in the match day squad as his Horoya FC side lost 2-1 at home to Flamme Olympique.
In the MLS playoffs, Mustafa Kiiza came on in the 46th minute for Corrales as his Montreal Impact side lost it late 2-1 at New England Revolution.
Compiled by Ronald Lusulire. Lusulire also hosts Tugukyangira Bunayira along Sinan Rajub Ssenoga and Senior Abu Zikusooka every Tuesday on 102.1 FUFA fm.
COMPETITION: U-20 Total CAF Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers
DATE: 23 November – 05, December 2020
HOST: Tanzania.
Group A: Tanzania, Somalia and Djibouti
Group B: Burundi, South Sudan and Uganda
Group C: Ethiopia, Kenya and Sudan
Uganda Hippos Head Coach, Morley Byekwaso has maintained Gavin Kizito Mugweri as captain of the team.
The development comes as the Uganda U20 preparers to take part at the U20 AFCON Zonal Qualifiers Tourney that commences on Monday.
Byekwaso believes Mugweri who plies his trade at SC Villa has leadership skills and he is a player that can motivate the rest of the team.
”I have looked at the player’s quality and his leadership skills to take the team ahead. He will carry the responsiblity of captaining the team. I have confidence and belief in him’ Byekwaso stated.
Morley Byekwaso
It should be noted that Mugweri was captain of the Uganda U17 (Cubs) team that featured at the 2018 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
He also served in the same role last year at the CECAFA U20 Tournament held in Uganda.
Byekwaso travelled to Tanzania with a squad of 20 players and thinks the team will do well during the tournament and his primary target being to take them to the final.
‘My primary target just like any other Ugandan is to see that the team reaches to the final of this tournament. If this is achieved, we shall be rest assured of the ticket to play in the AFCON final tournament in Mauritania.’ he added.
The Coach said the squad of 20 players that he selected has worked hard and they will make the country proud.
The tournament runs from November 23, to December 5, in Tanzania.
The Hippos will face South Sudan in the first group game on November 23, at 4pm.
Meanwhile the team is accommodated at Premier Palace Hotel, Arusha.
The team had the first light training at 3pm on Saturday, 21st November 2020.
The U-20 qualifiers will see 11 countries competing. Hosts Tanzania has been placed in group A with Somalia and Djibouti, while Burundi, South Sudan and Uganda are in group B.
COMPETITION: U-17 Total CAF Africa Cup of Nations Zonal Qualifiers
DATE: 13 – 28, December 2020
HOST: Rwanda
The U-17 qualifiers will attract 9 countries divided into three groups
Group A: Rwanda, Eritrea and South Sudan
Group B:Uganda, Ethiopia and Kenya
Group C: Sudan, Djibouti and Tanzania.
Ahead of the forthcoming CAF U-17 Zonal CECAFA Qualifiers, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has boosted the Cubs training camp in Njeru with yet again another theory session to compliment with the routine physical drills on the field of play.
The first class was handled by the former player and coach Vincent Tumusiime, also popularly known as Titi Kamara early this week.
The module that was held by experienced CAF instructor Livingstone Kyambadde expounded most on the players’ future development both on and off the field of play.
Livingstone Kyambadde
While explaining to players about teamwork, Kyambadde recited on how egoism can never take a player thus far.
‘When you win, you win as a team not as an individual. This means I win, you win and the team wins‘ noted Kyambadde, a Senior CAF Coaching Instructor while explaining to players.
He taught players on how bad peer groups can derail and spoil their future if they’re not careful.
‘Bad association can spoil good habit.’ Kyambadde fore warned the extremely attentive players.
‘Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. Are you guys prepared to grab this opportunity of being summoned to the national team?’ he posed.
He further handled different aspects of the module where he hinted on various topics as below listed.
What every player needs to know?
Why are you playing?
When you reach don’t forget.
Ability can take you to the top, but character can keep you there
The best way to predict the future is to create it
Extra blessings come from extra effort
Do not lie, because when you lie you make the problem part of the future
Do not make permanent decision for a temporary situation
Amongst other topics
Meanwhile player Simon Mukisa and head coach Hamza Lutalo gave a vote of thanks in appreciation to what Kyambadde delivered.
‘On player’s behalf, I want to thank the instructor of the day for these wonderful words of encouragement. We promise we shall all these words not only during our stay in camp but in entire life. Trust me this is life time knowledge acquired. We thank Management for organizing us such classes. We never remain the same‘ Mukisa disclosed.
Hamza Lutalo
Head coach Hamza Lutalo said ‘The class has helped us a lot because players were so much nervous and bothered with the issue of being sent home for not making it to the final cut. But his lecturing hinted most on all these attributes of life where players were told that being trimmed off the team is not the end of life. It calls for one to work hard so that next time he is ready to grab the chance.’
The tournament will be held in Rwanda from 13 – 28, December 2020. Uganda is in group B with finalists Ethiopia and arch rivals Kenya.
This year’s edition will have 9 countries taking part namely host Rwanda, reigning champion Uganda, Eritrea, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, Djibouti and Tanzania
The top two finalists will get a ticket to play in the 2021 U17 AFCON in Morocco as CECAFA agents.
Tanzania hosted the last edition of the championship in 2019 that was won by Uganda who beat Ethiopia 3-1 in the final.
FUFA has released the latest status of club licensing for the clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.
The communication dated 19th November 2020 was addressed to the Uganda Premier League Chief Executive Officer and signed off by FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza indicates the categories in which the clubs fall under following a rigorous Club Licensing porcess.
However two clubs Busoga United FC and Kitara FC are in category three and have until Monday 23rd November 2020; 1700hours to have fully complied with the missing requirements and also submit a ground that meets FUFA level 3. The duo will be considered in the draft fixtures for the new season if they meet the requirements.
The categories are as below;
Category I: Seven (7) clubs were able to submit the minimum requirements and have their stadia at FUFA level 2 and 3 which is acceptable for UPL. These Clubs therefore qualify for a full license. The clubs in this category are; Champions Vipers SC, Wakiso Giants, KCCA FC, POlice FC , MYDA FC, Onduparaka FC and Express FC.
Category II: Seven (7) clubs were able to submit the minimum requirements but their grounds do not meet the minimum standard. These Clubs are advised to submit a stadium that was inspected and meets the minimum standard of FUFA level 3. The clubs in this category are; BUL FC, Kyetume FC, Mbarara City FC, Soltilo Bright Stars FC, URAFC, UPDF FC and Sc Villa.
Category III: Two (2) clubs Busoga United FC and Kitara FC have not been able to submit some of the minimum requirements. These clubs have therefore been given until Monday 23rd November 2020; 1700hours to have fully complied with the missing requirements and also submit a ground that meets FUFA level 3.
Failure to comply will mean the clubs do not get a license but stand a chance to appeal to the FUFA Club Licensing Appeals Committee.
