Uganda U17 Boys Football National Team coach Hamza Lutalo has expressed readiness of his charges ahead of the Zonal Qualifiers for the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
With the CECAFA Championship scheduled to start on Saturday, 1st October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Lutalo believes the Uganda Cubs have had the best preparations prior to the tournament.
Coach Hamza Lutalo giving instructions to players.
“The boys are mentally and physically ready for the tournament. Since we entered camp, the players have been improving and the several practice games played put them in the perfect shape,” he said.
Uganda Cubs training in Ethiopia.
The gaffer also added that getting to Ethiopia days before the tournament gets underway has helped the team to acclimatize to the weather conditions.
“The team arrived here on Sunday and this has helped the boys get used to the weather here. Therefore, we cannot wait for the games to begin.”
Uganda starts the tournament against Djibouti on Saturday, 1st October at Abebe Bikila Stadium.
The Cubs are pitted in Group B alongside Djibouti, Sudan and Burundi.
Having won the previous two editions, the ultimate target for Uganda is to be Champions in the Zonal Championship where the finalists qualify for the final tournament.
Uganda U17 National Team Head Coach Hamzah Lutalo has named the final squad that will take part in the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations Zonal (CECAFA) Qualifiers between 30th September- 10th October 2022 in Ethiopia.
The contingent left on Sunday morning aboard Ethiopian Airlines with 22 players for the tournament that will in Addis Ababa at Abebe Bikila Stadium.
Some of the players arriving at Entebbe International Airport before heading to Ethiopia on Sunday.
Uganda is in group B alongside Rwanda, Burundi, Djibouti and Sudan.
Group A: Ethiopia, Tanzania, South Sudan, Eritrea and Somalia
The Team will kick start the tournament against Djibouti on Saturday 1st October 2022.
Three days later, the Cubs will then face Burundi on Matchday two.
Uganda U17 players during training at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
Matchday three games in Group B will take place on 7th October with Uganda facing Sudan.
Lutalo’s charges will complete group business on 13th October against neighbours Rwanda.
The semifinals will take place on 16th October while the final will come on 19th of the same month.
Uganda will seek to advance to the finals for the third successive time including the 2021 edition that was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Final Team
Goalkeepers John Makumbu- Royal Giant High School, Mityana Siraje Etuta-Buddo SS Elisa Talemwa-ST Pontiano SS, Ngondwe
Defenders Farouk Lubega- Buddo SS Jamal Ssemwogerere- Buddo SS Hakim Wandera- Prosper SA Steven Mugisha- Latifah Mixed SS Edgar Kiggundu-Buddo SS Najib Nalingi- Royal Giant High School, Mityana Jamil Ed Rashid-Royal Giant High School, Mityana Pius Oyirwoth-Janan SS Hafidhu Ssonko Ssembatya- Kampala Junior Team
Midfielders Patrick Ouke- Prosper SA Patrick Ssembusi-Janan SS Elvis Ssekajugo- Royal Giant High School, Mityana Abubakali Walusimbi-St Mary’s SS, Kitende Martin Nsimbe-Buddo SS
Forwards Richard Okello- BUL FC JT Farouk Tumwesigye- Big Talent SA Alex Yiga- KCCA FC SA Frank Ssekanjako- ST Pontiano SS, Ngondwe Arafat Nkoola- ST Pontiano SS, Ngondwe
Uganda U17 National Team will seek to advance to the finals of this year’s Total Energies U17 Africa Cup of Nations but first, they will be subjected to qualifiers.
To win the coveted slot, one has to emerge Champions of the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers, a thing the Cubs have done in the previous two editions. Unfortunately the most recent (2021) was cancelled due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
Currrent U17 National Team training at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
In the draws conducted earlier this week, Uganda was placed in Group B alongside Rwanda, Burundi, Djibouti and Sudan.
The other group has hosts Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somalia, Tanzania and Eritrea.
Uganda will kick start the tournament against minnows Djibouti at the Abebe Bikila Stadium on 1st October 2022.
Three days later, the Cubs will then face Burundi on Matchday two.
Matchday games in Group B will take place on 7th October with Uganda facing Sudan.
Hamza Lutalo’s charges will complete group business on 13th October against neighbours Rwanda.
The semifinals will take place on 16th October while the final will come on 19th of the same month.
Coach Lutalo believes his charges have what it takes to extend the dominance in the region and secure the ultimate target of qualifying for the final tournament.
Coach Hamza Lutalo.
“Our target is to qualify for AFCON and that means we must be the best in the Qualifiers. We are not concerned about our opponents because the players have been prepared to face any opposition,” he started.
“All the teams our group are equally good but our focus is doing well in every game in order to reach our target.” Added Lutalo.
The team is currently in camp at the FUFA Technical Centre,Njeru where the final team shall be named before heading to Ethiopia.
Governance is a key pillar in the management of football and FUFA has put a lot of emphasis in this area. It is upon this back ground that the FUFA Executive Committee convenes quarterly to deliberate on football matters and come up with policies for implementation. The 27th FUFA Exco meeting was held on Wednesday 31st August 2022 at FUFA House, Mengo.
The key decisions are;
Governance & Administration
Rewards and Sanctions Committee
The FUFA Executive Committee approved establishment of the Rewards and Sanctions Committee. The committee will primarily be responsible for handling disciplinary matters as well as recognition and reward for good performance at the FUFA Secretariat.
The Adhoc Committee has;
Sam Mpiima- Chairman
Dr. Azah Taib-Member
Kibazo Peter- Member
Julian Namuganga-Member
Sheba Ampaire- Member
FUFA Centenary Celebrations
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the establishment of the FUFA @100 years Committee. The committee will be responsible for organising events and activities to mark the upcoming Centenary of FUFA in 2024.
The Committee has;
Rogers Byamukama-Chairman
Rogers Mulindwa- Member
Sabiiti Muwanga-Member
Ahmed Hussein-Member
Eric Kifampa-Member
Players Status Regulations
The FUFA Executive Committee approved proposals from the Rules Review Commission (RRC) for amendments to Regulations on status and transfer of players. The approved proposals are;
All football players featuring in FUFA Official Competitions at all levels should be registered on the FUFA Connect System by season 2023/2024. This also takes into account players in FUFA authorised Competitions.
Allow registration of players whose contracts expire during competition period
Youth football player agreements
School-player scholarship agreements for a maximum of three years
Minor players to be registered on FUFA Connect System
Training Compensation fee of UGX 500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Shillings) has been set per year for a registered player starting at the age of 12 till 23 years for domestic transfers.
Amateur players will remain regulated to stay at a club for two years for stability and growth of a player.
Football Development
Education Fund
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the creation of the FUFA Education Fund to aid members of the football family in enhancing their knowledge in various fields of the game. The fund will, among others
Support the less privileged individuals
Ease pressure on office of the President
Make education affordable
Establish and grow trust in the football family
Match General Coordinators
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the proposal of FUFA General Coordinators (GCs) to be enlisted as match officials in matches of the Uganda Premier League, FUFA Women Super League, Uganda Cup, The FUFA Drum and FUFA Cup Final matches. The FUFA GC shall put on the FUFA authorised badge at all matches and effectively replaces the Match Commissioner and work with the Referees Assessor, Centre Referee, Reserve Referee (4th Official), and 2 Assistant Referees.
Capacity Building Curriculum
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the FUFA Education Curriculum which has been developed for courses in Football Administration and Management, Safety and Security, Refereeing, Coaching, Sports Science, Medical and Nutrition.
FUFA Inter District Football Competition
The FUFA Executive Committee approved a proposal to establish a grass roots-based football competition (FUFA Inter District Football Competition).
Competitions, Refereeing and Licensing
Uganda Cup Final
The FUFA Executive Committee approved Northern Region Football Association to host the Final of the Uganda Cup 2022/2023 season. The final will be hosted in Lira at Akii Bua Stadium.
Proline FC’s request to change region
The FUFA Executive Committee approved that Proline FC plays in the Buganda Regional League for 2022/2023 season. Proline FC acquired Nalubaale FC that was started in Buikwe, Buganda region.
However FUFA Exco advised Proline FC to apply for registration in the Kampala Regional League for the 2023/24 season.
Change of Club names
The FUFA Executive Committee approved requests from three clubs to change names. Clubs whose requests were not approved, means they did not meet the requirements at the preliminary stage for change of name.
The successful clubs are;
Kyambura Football to Bunyaruguru Tigers Football Club
Kazinga Lions Football Club to Bunyaruguru United Football Club
Busiro United Football Club to Kiboga United Sports Club
National teams
Beach Soccer National Team- Sand Cranes
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the proposal to reinforce the Technical team of the Uganda National Beach Soccer team-Sand Cranes. The Exco endorsed the appointment of Angelo Schirinzi from Switzerland for the period that will see the Sand Cranes feature at the COSAFA Beach Soccer Championship in South Africa and the 2022 AFCON Beach Soccer Finals in Mozambique.
Uganda Women National Senior Team- Crested Cranes
The FUFA Executive Committee declared that the positions of the technical team of Crested Cranes have fallen vacant following the completion of their assignment for which they were appointed that ended with the WAFCON Finals in Morocco. FUFA will declare as and when the application process for the vacant positions starts.
Community Clubs Programme
The FUFA Executive Committee approved the FUFA Community Clubs Programme-a model that will create sustainable and accountable clubs built to last. The FUFA Exco provided potential areas of focus where the programme will be first implemented. Acholi, Tooro and Masaka were earmarked for the kickoff the programme.
FUFA has today handed over sixty quality balls to one of its members Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA).
The gesture is in support of the forthcoming National Youth U-13 Football Championship for both boys and girls to be hosted in Mbale from 16th -21st August 2022.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza handing over the balls to UYFA Chairman Roberts Kiwanuka.
The balls were handed over to the Chairman of UYFA Roberts Kiwanuka by the FUFA Deputy CEO in Charge of football Decolas Kiiza at FUFA House, Mengo.
What they said;
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza
FUFA Deputy CEO – Football Decolas Kiiza
We would like to congratulate UYFA for organizing this youth football tournament. We believe the balls handed over today will be put to proper use by the teams. It is a humble contribution by FUFA to the association. We encourage UYFA to organise many more youth football tournaments.
UYFA Chairman- Roberts Kiwanuka
Uganda Youth Football Association Chairman, Roberts Kiwanuka.
We thank FUFA for the contribution towards the tournament. It is a huge boost to the academies and schools that will participate in the tournament. I urge the academies and schools to use the balls to develop football in Uganda, as the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim highlighted the strategic plan for every household to have a ball.
About the U13 Boys and Girls tournament
The first edition will run between from 16th to 21st August 2022. The tournament was launched last week on Thursday at FUFA House.
Twenty five (25) boys’ teams that qualified from the 8 regions of FUFA while the girls’ category has eight (8) invitational teams.
The teams will camp at Nkoma SS while the matches will be played at Aga Khan play grounds and Mbale Stadium.
Boys Category
Group A Msingi Soccer Academy, Super Heroes, The Lion Sports Academy, Soroti Eagles Soccer Academy, Kick It Soccer Academy
Group B Garuga Soccer Academy, K.S Sparta 09, Alfa Football Academy, Paorinher
Group C Five Stars Entebbe, KAYDA Sports Academy, Pesti Football Academy, Superior Soccer Academy
Group D Buwate Soccer Academy, Twinbrook Sports Academy, Sky Sports Club Academy, El Cambio Academy
Group E Spot the Talent, Kampala Junior Team, YES Sports Academy, Destiny Soccer Academy
Group F Della Torre Academy, Youth Sport Uganda, Excel Athletes Academy, Kasese Bronken
Girls Category
Group A Kampala Junior Team, Azteks Soccer Academy, CBI Sports Academy, Sky Sports Club Academy
Group B Nsambya Young Stars Academy, Talent Platform Academy, Raising Stars Soccer Academy, Prime View Primary School
Uganda Youth Football Association(UYFA) has on Thursday launched the inaugural Under 13 National Youth Football Championship that will take place in Mbale City.
The first edition will run between Tuesday 16th – 21st August 2022.
The tournament was launched on Thursday at FUFA House, Mengo by FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Byamukama who later conducted the draws together with Chairman FUFA Football Development Committee Ronnie Kalema.
FUFA Executive Committee Member, Rogers Byamukama.FUFA Executive Committee Member and Chairperson FUFA Football Development Committee, Ronnie Kalema.
25 boys’ teams that qualified from the 8 regions of FUFA were drawn while on the other hand, the girls category has 8 teams, coming on invitation.
The boys’ teams were placed in 4 groups with the top two automatically qualifying for the round of 16 together with the best 4 that will finish in third place.
On the other hand, girls’ teams have been placed into two groups of four teams each with the top two qualifying for the semifinals.
While presiding over the function, Rogers Byamukama congratulated UYFA Executive for this great initiative and indicated the tournament will have the full backing from FUFA.
“I congratulate UYFA leadership on assuming office. Youth football is an integral part of our development ans strategic plan. I am excited that you are launching this maiden youth tournament which is a bedrock to our national under age teams. As FUFA we started up the U15 team who are the Champions of CECAFA. As part of that strategy, we have had our U17 in qualify for AFCON twice,” said Byamukama before adding, “when kids start playing football, especially at this stage it is leisure but when they they get exposed to competitions, they gain the winning spirit which is important in the game of football. As FUFA we shall continue supporting such competitions with all required resources and also ensure the continuity of these competitions.”
Roberts Kiwanuka, the Chairman UYFA appreciated FUFA for the support towards youth football and pledged to work in line with FUFA’s five-year strategic plan.
UYFA Chairperson, Roberts Kiwanuka.
“We are thankful to the leadership at FUFA for the support towards UYFA and youth football as a whole. One of our responsibilities is to help FUFA achieve its vision of being the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch. Our Association is working in line with the FUFA Hat trick and our main focus is about extending football to every homestead. With this tournament and others to come, we are assured that FUFA will achieve that target.” He said.
The teams will camp at Nkoma SS while the games will be played at Aga Khan playgrounds and Mbale Stadium all in Mbale City.
Boys
Group A Msingi Soccer Academy, Super Heroes, The Lion Sports Academy, Soroti Eagles Soccer Academy, Kick It Soccer Academy
Group B
Garuga Soccer Academy, K.S Sparta 09, Alfa Football Academy, Paorinher
Group C Five Stars Entebbe, KAYDA Sports Academy, Pesti Football Academy, Superior Soccer Academy
Group D
Buwate Soccer Academy, Twinbrook Sports Academy, Sky Sports Club Academy, El Cambio Academy
Group E Spot the Talent, Kampala Junior Team, YES Sports Academy, Destiny Soccer Academy.
Group F Della Torre Academy, Youth Sport Uganda, Excel Athletes Academy, Kasese Bronken
The National Qualifiers to the inaugural edition of CAF African Schools Championship officially came to a climax on Sunday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru with Amus College emerging winners in the girls’ category.
Amus College joined Royal Giant High School (Boys Category Winners) as the two schools that will represent Uganda at the CECAFA Zonal Championship slated for December this year.
The National Qualifiers attracted a total of 20 schools from across this country, competing for nine days in Njeru.
There were a lot of captivating moments both on and off the field and the cameras were available to tell the story.
Take a look at some of the key moments (in pictures) as taken by Julius Mutebi, Andrew Talenga and Morgan Jale.
Teams arriving
The FUFA Communication team was available to get shots as schools made their way to FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru prior to the start of games.
Buddo SS pose for a group photo after arriving at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru Kibuli SS School Team Rines SS team that featured at the CAF African Schools Championship.Kawempe Muslim SS
Opening Ceremony
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim officially launched the tournament on 17th July 2022 indicating this is a good platform to nurture and developed young talented players that will form the Junior National Teams.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses (middle) flanked by FUFA 1st Vice President, Justus Mugisha(left), FUFA EXCO Member Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (in jacket) and Member of Parliament for Kachumbala Constituency, Hon. Patrick Isiagi (extreme right).FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim speaking during the launch.Amus College displaying the balls received from FUFA.Each of the schools that participated got 15 balls.
Action on pitch
Eight group games were played per day with each game lasting for 40 minutes (20 minutes per half and a ten-minute break).
Action between Jinja SS (green) and Standard High School, Zzana (blue).Action between Mukono Kings High School (left) and Buddo SS. A Kawempe Muslim player tries to go past Royal College Namugongo defender.Action between King of Kings and Rines SS.
Goal celebrations
After scoring a goal, players always celebrate for a wonderful job done. There were unique goal celebrations from different schools.
Royal College Namugongo goalkeeper celebrates after her School scored a goal.Tagy High School celebrating one of their goals during the Championship.Thomas Ogema of Royal Giant High School celebrates after scoring.Dynamic SS players pose for the FUFA TV camera after scoring.
Match Officials
Bearing mind that the Championship catered for young players, FUFA equally thought it wise to deploy budding referees.
Match Officials leading Kawempe Muslim SS and Royal College to the field.Match officials and team captains before kickoff
CAF African Schools Championship-Uganda 2022 Matchday Two
Group A Boston High School 2-4 Jinja SS Mukono Kings High School 3-1 Standard High School, Zzana Jinja SS 0-1 Mukono Kings High Standard High School 3-1 Buddo SS
Group B Amus College 0-4 Dynamic SS Royal Giants High School 3-2 St. Mary’s Boarding School, Kitende St. Mary’s Boarding School, Kitende 9-0 Kibuli SS Dynamic SS 1-3 Royal Giants High School
Final Group Fixtures Monday, 18th July 2022
Mukono Kings High School vs Boston High School
Buddo SS vs Jinja SS Royal Giants High School vs Amus College School Kibuli SS vs Dynamic SS
Royal Giants High School and Mukono Kings High School maintained their perfect start at the CAF African Schools Championship-Uganda, winning their respective games on day two.
Royal Giants High School-Mityana.
In the games played on Sunday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, Royal Giants High School made it three wins in as many games to all but secure a slot into the final.
Action between Royal Giants High School and St. Mary’s Kitende.
The Mityana district based outfit had to come from two goals down to win 3-2 against St. Mary’s Boarding School, Kitende before defeafing Dynamic SS 3-1 in the later game.
It should be noted that they won 6-0 against Kibuli SS in their first game on Saturday.
Royal Giants celebrate one of their goals.
With one game to play(against Amus College School), Royal Giants High School lead Group B and only need at least a draw to advance.
In Group A, Mukono Kings High School lead the top on 9 points with one game to play (against Boston High School).
Mukono Kings High School.
Standard High School in second place also have 9 points but have completed their group games and only hoping Mukono Kings lose to Boston High School.
It should be noted that the leaders of either group will play a final on Tuesday to determine the school that will represent Uganda at CECAFA Zonal CAF African Schools Championship slated for December.
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim officially launched the National Championship on Sunday , giving out 15 balls to each of the 10 participating schools.
Students display the balls during the opening ceremony.
In his remarks, the President indicated it is important to have players identified at this age to nurture them into future stars.
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim addressing the players and officials.
“I am a member of CAF EXCO and President Dr. Patrice Motsepe who was here recently brought the idea of having a tournament for young boys and girls which we supported. I believe this helps in identifying talent at a young age and then be able to develop them into better players, ” he said.
“Uganda is the Champion of CECAFA U15 and U17. So this is a good platform for FUFA to identify players that will feature in those age brackets. It is the Junior National Teams that feed Uganda Cranes and thus to have a good Senior Team, we must develop players at such tournaments.” The President asserted.
FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha who is also the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee also attended the opening ceremony.
FUFA 1st Vice President, Justus Mugisha speaking.
The other notable dignitaries included Hon. Patrick Isiagi Opolot, Member of Parliament for Kachumbala County and also the Director Amus College, Hon. Mary Annet Nakato, Woman Member of Parliament for Buyende District, FUFA Executive Committee Members Ronnie Kalema and Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe among others.
Group A Standard High School 2-0 Jinja SS Buddo SS 1-1 Boston High School Mukono Kings High School 3-0 Buddo SS Boston High School 0-2 Standard High School
Group B St. Mary’s Boarding School 0-4 Dynamic SS Kibuli SS 1-1 Amus College Royal Giant High School 6-0 Kibuli SS Amusi College 0-1 St. Mary’s Boarding School
Standard High School-Zzana and Royal Giant High School set the pace as the CAF African Schools Championship got underway on Saturday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Action between Royal Giant High School and Kibuli SS.Standard High School (blue) won their opening two games.
The National Championship that serves as qualifiers to the Zonal (CECAFA) stage attracted ten schools, pooled into two groups of five apiece.
Standard High School made their intentions clear, winning their two games played on Saturday to take lead in Group A.
Standard High School team that started against Jinja SS.
In the opening game, they defeated Jinja SS 2-0 thanks to Reagan Lwanga’s brace.
They also won the second game with the same scoreline against Boston High School.
The other games played in Group A saw Boston High School share spoils with Buddo SS in a one-draw. The latter went ahead to lose their second game 3-0 at the hands of Mukono Kings High School.
Action between Mukono Kings High School and Buddo SS.
In Group B, Royal Giant High School from Mityana district registered the biggest win on Matchday one, obliterating Kibuli SS with a 6-0 scoreline.
Hassan Ntale, Tom Kasumba (brace), Junior Ngoobi, Enock Bagenda and Thomas Ogema were on target for Royal Giant.
Royal Giant High School players celebrating one of the goals against Buddo SS.
Dynamic SS defeated St. Mary’s Boarding School 4-0 before the latter bounced back with a slim victory over Amus College in their second game.
St. Mary’s Boarding School, Kitende defeated Amus College.
Action will continue on Sunday with teams vying for a spot into the final.
It should be noted that the top teams in each group advance to play the final where the winner will repesent Uganda in the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe will pay a two-day visit to Uganda at the invitation of FUFA President and CAF Exco Member Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.Dr. Motsepe will arrive on Thursday 14th July and leave on Saturday 16th July 2022. During the visit, the CAF President will hold meetings with HE President of the Republic of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, FUFA Executive and key football stakeholders. A press conference will be organized as well for CAF President to address the media at the end of his official visit to Uganda The office of FUFA CEO confirmed the latest developments about the visit of CAF President.
The FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses is confident that the federation’s strategy to improve the human resource and Capacity building I football, will yield positive results.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim during the workshop at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
Through the Football Development Unit, FUFA has embarked on creating a pool of football instructors to gain more football knowledge in an organised manner that will be shared later with other football stakeholders.
A two Day workshop from 14th-15th May 2022 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, has brought 40 recognised football figures in Uganda in the areas of administration, refereeing, sports science, safety, security, marketing and communications.
Former FIFA Referee Dennis Batte (L) and Rogers Byamukama at the workshop- FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
‘We are following our strategy. We need educators to train other football stakeholders. Every player, administrator, coach is a football marketer and Communicator’
The FUFA Exco and Executive Secretary of the Football Development Unit Ronnie Kalema highlights the importance of the workshop.
‘I would like to assure the Country that in order to enhancing the implementation of existing tools and systems of teaching, we have organized this Training of Trainers (ToT) for our top instructors in the Country. We want to work on the curriculum that suits with the new philosophy & trends of football in order to reshape and unlock greater efficiency for football’s education’ noted Kalema.
Ronnie Kalema during the theory session
FUFA Football Development Director Ali Mwebe during presentation
Some of the high profile figures at the workshop are FUFA Vice President Darius Mugoye, Rogers Byamukama, Exco Members Sam Mpiima, Rasoul Ariga and FUFA Deputy CEO-Services Humphrey Mandu.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Services who doubles as CAF Safety and Security Officer Humphrey Mandu during the course
Former FIFA referees Catherine Adipo, Yusuf Awuye, Ali Kalyango, Margaret Kubingi, Haruna Kebba, Dennis Batte and Brian Nsubuga are also attending the workshop where they will be covering the area of refereeing.
Dr. Azah Taibu-Chairperson of FUFA Judicial Bodies at the workshop
FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye and Executive Secretary of Governance Sam Mpiima Coach Christine Wanyana and FUFA Youth Development Manager Bashir Mutyaba Goalkeeping coaches James Magala(l) and Daniel Kiwanuka at the course Head of Finance at Vipers SC Vincent SsajjabiCAF Commissioner and FUFA Exco Member Rasoul ArigaJjunju Hamzah Chairman Futsal Association Uganda UPL CEO Bernard Bainamani Bampaire CAF Coaching Instructor Majidah Nantanda
The workshop, whose participants were asked to submit applications for attendance is aimed at;
1-Equipping instructors with modern approach to course delivery
2-Understand and contribute into the philosophy of new FUFA Education curriculum
3-Understand the process and procedures involved in organising FUFA courses
The list of Participants invited for the Training of Trainers
As the industrial revolution turned around Europe, it is the sports revolution that will turn around the destiny of the youths in Uganda.
Indeed, the Uganda sports revolution is taking shape. The times are calling for the attention to youths. There is no way you are going to gain the attention of the millions of youths who are the majority of the population without giving attention to Sports, Art and Entertainment.
The Ugandan fans at Lugogo. The youths need to be considered.
Whereas it remains the role of Government to provide sporting infrastructure, finance the National teams and athletes representing Uganda and also to provide the necessary laws and policies for the private sector to invest into sport, I believe that the birth of FUFA Media Services (FMS) Ltd to manage both the radio and television channel is not only timely but one of the four buttons to be pressed in order to turn around Ugandan Sports.
The birth of FUFA Tv will turn around the value of Ugandan sports
My Justification Sports Federations and their members own the rights emanating from the activities (aka Sports Rights) they organise. The owning of such rights may not necessarily translate into the required resources to manage sports.
Uganda Rugby Union manages many National Teams. The 7s teams is the African Champion 2022.
In order to achieve sporting results, the various sporting entities must acquire the necessary resources of; human, time and financial. This can only be acquired from commercialisation of the sports rights.
It is not justification of the expenditure but the strong brands created out of the sporting persons, competitions and events that set the pricing of the emanating rights.
Strong Brands are determined by the massive awareness and desire of the masses to associate, identify with, attend and consume such brands.
Uganda Cranes XI Vs Kenya. Such sports brands drive masses to follow them hence possible attraction by potential sponsors.
In order to promote and cause massive awareness and consequently be followed by numbers, it is only paramount to use mass media tools.
Radio, Television and Cyber Media (aka e-Media) are not only interdependent but proven means to reach the masses.
Sporting brands must consequently ride on the advent of e-Media to create strong brands and reach to audiences beyond the venues.
The presence of sports brands on e-Media is a direct translation into acquiring the necessary human, time and financial resources and eventually leads to sporting results.
It is not by accident that federations, clubs and athletes that invest more time and financial resources register impressive results by winning more.
The challenge has been that the e-Media resource in Uganda does not accord Ugandan sporting brands the sufficient and quality presence that can translate into commercial value.
Therefore, FUFA has created FUFA Media Services (FMS) Ltd, to manage and commercialise the radio (102.1 FUFA fm) and television channel (FUFA Tv), with the objective of prioritising and providing sufficient and quality e-Media resource for Ugandan sport.
With such amount on the e-Media presence, the sporting brands (federations, clubs, venues, competitions and persons) in Uganda will become stronger, desirable, followed by numbers and consequently generate more revenues from commercial and broadcast partners. Such revenues will be reinvested into sporting activities that will automatically lead to better sporting results on the pitch.
It is therefore important that we all embrace, promote, support, protect and be proud of the two brands of:
a. 102.1 FUFA fm b. FUFA Tv
It is Our Game, It is Our Country.
The author is Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim MP Budiope East FUFA President CAF Exco Member
The FUFA Young Referees Project is back. FUFA has embarked on implementing key objectives of the women’s football strategy through the FUFA Hattrick passed by the General Assembly in Mbale last year by organizing a course for young female referees at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
It is the second project after the inaugural course in 2018 that produced young referees who later graduated to officiate in the FUFA Juniors League.
FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi with the young referees way back in 2018 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The five day course targeting referees between the age group of 15-20 years is supported by the world’s soccer governing body FIFA. The course-the first of its kind in Uganda for young female referees, has attracted 38 participants and it is in line with the FUFA Women’s Football Strategy of increasing the number of women in women’s football and the goal of increasing the number of women referees in the game.
The participants are from the 8 FUFA Regions; Northern, North East, Eastern, Buganda, Kampala, Western, West Nile and Kitara. This course is the first of its kind in this category. The participants are also enrolling for refereeing for the first time. Each region submitted 5 names for the course.
Participants in class for theory lessons
FUFA Executive Committee Member Issa Magola Kakaire who represented the FUFA President Hon Magogo Moses Hassim presided over the opening ceremony.
‘We shall continue creating room for the younger generation in refereeing and increase number of women in the administration sector. We thank FIFA for this great opportunity to develop women’s football in Uganda from the grassroots by empowering young girls. The project gives us the chance to full fill our Vision of becoming the number one football nation in Africa on and off the pitch and our Mission of protecting football for all’ said Magola.
The young female referees playing football at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru. The session is part of the practical lessons.
The course is part of activities lined up through the FIFA-FUFA Women Development Project launched last Saturday at the Uganda Christian University in Mukono.
The FUFA Executive Secretary of the Football Development Unit Ronnie Kalema highlights the federation’s desire to help in the growth of refereeing in the country.
Executive Secretary of FUFA Football Development Unit Ronnie Kalema
‘FUFA has always responded by introducing the Young Referees Project II which aims to support the youth-both girls and boys who are identified and developed at the early stages of their career. Such programmes give the federation maximum guarantee of 100% future for football. We have seen that such a programme is proven to the technical people since 80% of the first group (enrolled in 201) is officiating at the top level in our organised Competitions’ noted Kalema.
The young female referees with Physical fitness Instructor Rahma Kizito (in red) at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
Young referee Nambasa speaks out
Nambasa Jackie Mbekeka is a senior six student at Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga. She is delighted with the opportunity. I want to learn alot in refereeing. I will now channel the energies and passion on developing my talent. I am also a football player but i will concentrate on refereeing for now.
FUFA Referees Manager Samuel Egesa (white) sharing his vast knowledge with the young female referees at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
Key objectives of refereeing in FUFA’s strategic plan ‘The Future 2021-2025’ under the theme Consolidate and Takeoff.
Set minimum requirements and undertake to recruit competent persons at the right age as referees and assistant referees for all forms of football
Conduct training courses for quality assurance on objectives of Integrity, Fitness and Performance
Acquire performance aids and technology
Improve on remuneration and welfare inclusive of the payment schedules
Provide equipment and attire for international and National referees
Competent Instructors, Match Assessors and Match Commissioners
Lead instructor of the course Harriet Natabi (in white top) with the budding referees during the practical session at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The lead instructor of the course is Harriet Natabi (technical) while Rahma Kizito (Physical fitness) are handling the youngsters who enrolled for refereeing for the first time.
Not a weekend that had many Ugandan players abroad in action as most Leagues broke off due to the festive holidays.
But nevertheless the less, we kept close tabs on those who were in action and this is how they fared.
In the Israel Ligat Ha’al, defender Timothy Denis Awany played full time and kept a clean sheet as his Ashdod FC defeated William Kizito Luwagga’s Nof Hagalil 3-0. Luwagga was introduced in the 61st minute while Fahad Bayo wasn’t in the match day squad for Ashdod.
Defender Timothy Awany taking on William Kizito Luwagga
In the Tanzania Premier League, Khalid Aucho continued with his scoring form as he netted in the 81st minute to help his Yanga African side defeat Dodoma Jiji FC 4-0 in Tanzania. The goal was his second in the league and third this season.
Khalid Aucho celebrates after scoring.
Nicholas Wadada featured for full time while goalie Mathias Kigonya was an unused substitute as their Azam FC as they lost 2-1 to Taddeo Lwanga’s Simba SC on the road.
Nico Wakiro Wadada in action against Simba SC
On the other hand Taddeo Lwanga wasn’t part as he is still out with an injured.
In the Algeria Ligue I, Allan Okello put up a great show as his Paradou AC claimed a late 2-0 win away at Hussein Dey to move second on the log.
Allan Okello
In the English League 1, Jordan Obita featured full time and got booked in the 90+5 minutes as Wycombe Wanderers beat Charlton 1-0 on the road.
The organizing committee of the 2021 Airtel FUFA Awards has released all thirteen nominees and the voting procedure of the 2021 Awards categories. The Committee is headed by FUFA Executive member Rogers Byamukama.
The latest nominees were revealed during the press conference held at FUFA house in Mengo on Wednesday.
The categories released included Fans’ favorite foreign-based player of the year, Male and Women Coach of the year, Beach Soccer and Futsal players of the year, Member Association of the year, Member Association of the Year, FUFA Presidential Award, Fair Play Award, Best XI men, Best XI women and Best Squad of a particular year in addition to the Male and Female player of the year nominees who were released earlier.
L-R Kibo Media Director Bobkins Kibirige, Airtel FUFA Awards Committee Chairman Rogers Byamukama and FUFA Marketing Director Esther Musoke during Wednesday’s press conference in Mengo
Byamukama stated that last year the awards were not held due to the Covid-19 and disruption of activities.
‘We are excited again as we engage a high gear for preparations of our long awaited Airtel FUFA Awards. As we all know because of Covid 19, we were not able to organise last year’s edition and primarily because of very few activities. The awards are about rewarding sporting excellence in a season so it would not make sense to just have them when you have not had actors participate in footballing activities’
Airtel FUFA Awards Committee Chairman Rogers Byamukama addressing the media before releasing more nominees in six other categories
This year, we were able to complete the competitions, had International competitions for both male and female, so we thought it’s important to bring back that normalcy.’ Added Byamukama.
‘We have always rewarded both the male and female player of the year award winners with brand new cars and even this time the top two athletes will be recognsied. The rest of the winners will receive cash prizes.’
Byamukama thanked main sponsors Airtel Uganda and all the other partners Eco Bank, Bidco, Pepsi, Nile Special, Nic Holdings, 102.1 FM and Nivana for their support.
Meanwhile, on Monday next week, the nominees for female player of the year award will be trimmed from five to three whereas the final three for Male player of the year category will be confirmed on Wednesday.
For starters, the five nominees for the female player of the year category are Lady Doves FC players in Daisy Nakaziro and Fazilah Ikwaput.
Nominees- Airtel FUFA female player of the year 2021
The other three are; Joan Naggayi (She Maroons), Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens) and Margret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies).
Vipers’ trio Abdul-Azizi Kayondo, Bobosi Byaruhanga and Yunus Sentamu are joined by Express forward Erick Kenzo Kambale and URA captain Shafik Kagimu for the male nominees.
Nominees- Airtel FUFA Male player of the year 2021
This year the winners will be rewarded at a glomorous event that will be staged at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Saturday 4th December 2021.
The nominees from the six categories that were revealed today are;
Airtel FUFA coach of the year
Morley Byekwaso (U-20 Hippos team)
Wasswa Bbosa (Express)
Hussein Mbalangu (Arua Hill SC/Mbarara City FC)
Nominees- Airtel FUFA coach of the year
Airtel FUFA Women football coach of the year
Fred Musiime (Lady Doves), Sida Alex (She Maroons), Ayub Khalifa (U-20 Women National team)
Airtel FUFA Women football coach of the year
Beach Soccer player of the year nominees
Wasswa Emmanuel (St. Lawrence Beach Soccer Club), Kigozi Ambrose (Buganda Royal Beach Soccer Club), Kawawulo Isma (MUBS Beach Soccer Club)
Airtel FUFA Beach Soccer player of the year
Member Associations’ award nominees
Express FC (Club)
Uganda Youth Football Association (Special Interest Group)
Kampala Region Football Association (Region Football Association)
FUFA is committed to working with all good willed groups to save the lives of its stakeholders against the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this spirit, the FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee will conduct another round of vaccination in support of Government’s programmes through the Ministry of Health (MoH) for all Members and officials of FUFA to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
The vaccination exercise will be held at FUFA House, Mengo starting Monday 27th September 2021 to Friday 1st October 2021 from 9:00am – 1:00 pm on each day.
The vaccination exercise is for those taking the first dose and second dose.
The latest programme of vaccination is for all members of the FUFA Executive, Judicial Bodies, Delegates, Secretariat, players of Clubs at all levels for both Men and Women Leagues.
As earlier communicated (Circular No. 1132) starting, Tuesday 1st June 2021, the Covid-19 vaccination card became a mandatory requirement for participation in any FUFA organised and/or authorised activity or event including but not limited to:
Player registration and licensing for any Competition
Club registration and licensing
Letter of recommendation and secondment
Courses participation
Access to football matches depending on clearance by Government in future.
For further inquiries contact Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe (+256 700 669 922- Chairman FUFA COVID-19 Management Committee) or Mr. Decolas Kiiza (+256 753 374 898- FUFA Deputy Chief Executive Officer-Football).
Players and officials underwent COVID-19 Tests on Tuesday at FUFA
Fauzia Najjemba named Captain
Uganda will play Kenya at the first round
The Uganda U20 Women’s National Team has on Wednesday commenced preparations for the forthcoming 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
Uganda will face Kenya in the first round of the qualification phase with the first leg slated for 23rd-25th September in Nairobi while the return leg will be played between 7th -9th October.
The team entered residential camp at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru today morning under the stewardship of coach Ayub Khalifan Kiyingi.
The players that entered residential camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.
The players and officials had to first undergo a mandatory COVID-19 test on Tuesday at the FUFA Complex and their results returned negative before moving to Njeru.
Of the 30 players summoned, 26 turned up with the remaining four still playing at the CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers with Lady Doves. These are; Daphine Nyayenga (goalkeeper), Gloria Namugrwa (defender), Halima Kanyago(defender) and Joweria Nagadya (forward).
Coach Kiyingi is confident that the time he has between now and the first leg prepare the players both mentally and physically.
“I think we have enough time to prepare the girls and get them into the right shape. I’m aware that most of them have not been active but what is important now is to prepare them mentally.
The coach also went ahead to laud the Federation for entering the team into such competitions.
It is yet another opportunity for the girls to showcase their talents. I’m thankful to FUFA for yet another chance of having our players compete at the highest level. I hope we can deliver the best result.
In a related development, Fauzia Najjemba has been named the captain of the team with Aisha Nantongo and Jolly Kobusinge as 1st and 2nd assistant respectively.
From Left -Right: Fauzia Najjemba, Aisha Nantongo and Jolly Kobusinge.
U20 Provisional Squad Goalkeepers Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Esther Akite Okello (Olila High School FC), Saida Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens FC)
Defenders Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), Jolly Kobusinge (Tooro Queens FC), Gloria Namugerwa (Lady Doves), Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Stella Musubika (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Halima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Faridah Namirimu (Wakiso Hills WFC), Gillian Akadinda (Olila High School FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies)
Midfielders Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Lillian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC)
Forwards Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), Joan Ainembabazi (Tooro Queens FC), Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Bernadette Namwenge (Ajax Queens FC), Kamiyati Naigaga (Taggy High School FC), Zaituni Namaganda (Taggy High School FC), Joweria Nagadya (Lady Doves FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC)
Officials Head Coach – Ayub Khalifan Kiyingi Assistant Coach – Oliver Mbekeka Goalkeeping Coach – Mubarak Kiberu Team Doctor – Stella Nankumba Equipment Manager – Cissy Nakiguba Media Officer – Faridah Tomusange Nassejje
