FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: League Football

  • FUFA President Magogo hails URA FC’s historic FIFA recognition

    FUFA President Magogo hails URA FC’s historic FIFA recognition

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim has extended his heartfelt congratulations to URA FC following the club’s historic recognition by FIFA for submitting a winning strategic plan proposal.

    This achievement comes after URA FC participated in the FIFA Club Management and Professionalisation Programme held at Golden Tulip in Kampala, 2024, where they were certified by both FUFA and FIFA alongside other Ugandan clubs in the Uganda Premier League.

    As part of the programme, each participating club was required to submit a strategic plan proposal in a particular area of interest. URA FC’s proposal stood out among dozens from clubs around the world, earning them a spot among the programme’s winners.

    FIFA’s communication, sent by Picalló Aguilar Marcos, FIFA Senior Professional Football Manager and Development, to URA FC CEO Allan Munaaba, read in part:

    ‘We are pleased to announce the two winning submissions: ASEC Mimosas (Côte d’Ivoire) and URA FC (Uganda). We will be contacting the winning clubs shortly to coordinate their invitation to our upcoming Club Management Network Session in New York.’

    As winners, URA FC will receive support, as determined by FIFA, to implement their approved strategic plan. This support will enable the club to further develop its professional capabilities and drive growth.

    Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), President Magogo shared his pride in the Tax Collectors, writing: ‘Congratulations, @URAFC_Official, for the massive achievement. I am very proud of you.’

    He added, ‘This achievement is a testament to URA FC’s dedication and commitment to excellence. We are thrilled that they will represent Ugandan football on the global stage.’

    URA FC CEO Allan Munaaba expressed gratitude for the recognition.
    ‘We are incredibly grateful to the Government of Uganda and the Commissioner General, URA FC’s Patron, for their continued support to URA FC activities. A special thank you goes to the FUFA President for his tireless work in advancing professionalisation of club football in Uganda. This award is dedicated to our current and former players, coaches, executives, and the taxpayers for their invaluable support.’

    The local football governing body notes that this accolade is not only a win for URA FC but also a proud moment for Ugandan football, further emphasizing FUFA’s ongoing efforts to raise professional standards within local clubs.

    URA FC’s winning strategic proposal focused on nurturing talent for sustainable development, with a specific emphasis on developing players from grassroots to life after football, achieving governance, business and sport pyramid goals through balancing four perspectives; financial, internal processes, stakeholders, learning and growth.

  • FUFA Club Licensing Core Process for 2025/2026 Season Announced

    FUFA Club Licensing Core Process for 2025/2026 Season Announced

    The Federation of Uganda Football Associations has released the Club Licensing Action Plan for the 2025/26 season, outlining a clear roadmap to ensure Uganda Premier League clubs meet professional standards.

    The process started with the Club Licensing Committee meeting on May 20 to discuss the licensing framework. FUFA then released the Men’s and Women’s Club Licensing Regulations, Edition 2025, on June 10. A pre-season meeting will take place on June 26, where UPL Club Chairmen and CEOs will gather, and the Club Licensing Points Scoring System will also open.

    The primary registration window for UPL clubs will open on July 1, and physical inspection visits will take place from July 10 to 31. The deadline for submission of documents will be July 31. Licensing decisions will be made from August 4 to 6.

    If applicable, club licensing appeals will be handled by the appellant body on August 12. The final list of licensed clubs will be communicated to the UPL on August 15. The fixture list will be released on August 26.

    The first registration window will close on September 1. The Super 8 tournament will run from September 7 to 17. The FUFA Super Cup will take place on September 21, and the Uganda Premier League will kick off on September 26. The transition to a digital licensing system is expected to bring greater efficiency and professionalism to Ugandan football, and FUFA encourages all clubs to closely follow the timelines and requirements for a smooth licensing process.

    FUFA Men’s Club Licensing Regulations Edition 2025
  • Margherita: The new FUFA Uganda Premier League trophy

    Margherita: The new FUFA Uganda Premier League trophy

    The design of the new FUFA Uganda Premier League trophy is rooted in a profound and symbolic concept that mirrors the country’s unmatched beautiful features. The trophy draws inspiration from Uganda’s towering hills and majestic mountain ranges, with top flight football teams heavily represented with competition on their mind to rise above one another with the main aim to reach the highest point in Ugandan football.

    The pinnacle of this Journey is 5.11 kilometres above sea level, symbolising the best team in the league, whose excellence mirrors the country’s highest peak-Margherita-the nickname of the FUFA Uganda Premier League Trophy.

    The physical form of the trophy creatively captures the essence of this narrative. It is inspired by the shape of a football, stretched along a vertical axis to reflect the unmatched height of Uganda’s tallest mountain range. Horizontally, the ball is pulled across a top chord to form a crescent reminiscent of a young moon symbolising new beginnings and the kind of nature of competition. The body features hexagonal and half-pentagonal panels, maintaining a subtle homage to the classic football design.

    This artistic body is mounted atop a semi-spherical base textured with dimpled ball patterns. Supporting the trophy are two carefully crafted tiers; the upper tier bears the engravings ‘FUFA’ and ‘Uganda Premier League’, signifying its official status, while the lower tier is a glossy silver base providing both visual contrast and structural stability. The entire ensemble rests on a flat stand, anchoring the piece with elegance and firmness.

    The trunk of the trophy is adorned with a smooth texture. Vertical lines subtly dimple along the trunk, seamlessly connecting the top and bottom patches. These lines emulate the pattern of a stretched football, uniting symbolic narrative and aesthetic detail.

    Crafted from fine silver, the trophy is a brilliant representation of prestige and achievement. It stands at a precise height of 511 millimetres, a deliberate reflection of the 5.11-kilometre journey, the apex of Ugandan football. Every design element, from form to finish, speaks to the ambition, beauty, and resilience of the game within the nation.

    This trophy is not merely an award, it is a story cast in silver, celebrating those who strive to stand tallest in the beautiful game.

  • Uganda Records 144 Transactions in 2024 as per FIFA Global Transfer Report

    Uganda Records 144 Transactions in 2024 as per FIFA Global Transfer Report

    A recent report by FIFA reveals that Uganda contributed 144 transfers to the record-breaking 78,742 international transfers made in 2024.

    This movement of players occurred between clubs in different countries, covering men’s and women’s football in professional and amateur leagues across FIFA’s 211 Member Associations.

    In men’s professional football, Uganda saw 51 incoming transfers and 46 outgoing transfers, reflecting growth rates of 0.109% and -0.08%, respectively.

    Women’s professional football reported 8 incoming transfers and 15 outgoing transfers, with growth rates of 0.6% and 0.667%, respectively.

    Amateur football movements in Uganda consisted of 4 incoming transfers and 20 outgoing transfers, with growth rates of -0.2% and -0.13%.

    Key Highlights of the 2024 FIFA Global Transfer Report

    • Uganda made 144 transfers
    • 78,742 international transfers occurred across professional and amateur football
    • 22,779 transfers took place in men’s professional football
    • 2,284 transfers occurred in women’s professional football
    • Brazil led the world with 2,215 transfers
    • Benin ranked top in Africa with 244 transfers
    • Total transfer fees spent in 2024 reached $8.59 billion

    Read report

    https://inside.fifa.com/transfer-system/global-transfer-report/mens-professional-football

  • FUFA Tv Cup Product Lagoro Jimmy Joins Express FC from King’s College Budo

    FUFA Tv Cup Product Lagoro Jimmy Joins Express FC from King’s College Budo

    Born and raised in Kitgum, Northern Uganda, Lagoro Jimmy’s journey to professional football is a testament to talent, dedication, and the pivotal role of educational institutions in nurturing sports excellence.

    His academic pursuits led him to King’s College Budo, a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to both education and sports. Here, Lagoro honed his skills, balancing rigorous academic demands with a passion for football.

    Lagoro finished his Senior 4 last year at the school and plays as a winger.

    The FUFA TV Cup, an initiative by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), has been instrumental in providing young talents with a platform to showcase their abilities. The 2024 edition saw schools like Nabumali High School and Nganwa High School reaching the finals, with Nabumali emerging victorious. Such tournaments are crucial in bridging the gap between grassroots football and professional leagues.

    Scouts from top-tier clubs keenly observe these competitions, seeking the next generation of football stars. Lagoro Jimmy’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed, leading to his recruitment by Express FC, one of Uganda’s premier football clubs.

    Express FC has been proactive in strengthening its squad for the 2024/2025 season, unveiling new players and refurbishing their stadium to enhance both team performance and fan experience. The inclusion of players like Lagoro Jimmy aligns with the club’s vision of building a dynamic and competitive team.

    Lagoro’s journey from Kitgum to the national football stage serves as an inspiration to many young athletes across Uganda. It highlights the significance of platforms like the FUFA TV Cup in identifying and nurturing talent, and the role of educational institutions in supporting students’ dual aspirations in academics and sports.

  • FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme successfully ends in Uganda

    FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme successfully ends in Uganda

    The FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme – African Edition successfully came to a climax on Friday. The two-day workshop held at Golden Tulip Hotel in Kampala was very resourceful to StarTimes Uganda Premier League Clubs.

    Chairmen/Presidents and CEOs from all the 16 Clubs spoke highly of the opportunity that was presented to equip them with knowledge and skills of transforming their teams in order to suit the modern times.

    While closing the Programme, FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi who represented FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses extended gratitude to FUFA for availing such Projects to Uganda.

    “As FUFA and Uganda in general, we are very grateful to the leadership at FIFA for the continued support towards Ugandan football. This Programme has been an eye opener to our clubs in several areas such as strategic planning, governance and how they can transform their clubs into viable brands. I believe the Clun Chairmen and CEOs will go back and impliment what has been taught here inorder to help our League develop.” She said.

    FIFA Director Member Associations – Africa, Gelson Fernandes who spoke to the participants via zoom lauded Uganda for always embrancing such projects and called upon clubs to embrace the content shared over the two days.

    “FIFA is proud of the progress of the game under the leadership of President Moses Magogo and we believe such Projects will even take football to a better level in Uganda. I therefore, call upon the clubs to fully utilize what has been lectured over the two days inorder to develop holistically. Once the clubs are operating well, the value of the League grows.” He said.

    Anisha Muhoozi, the CEO of KCCA FC was tasked to pass a vote of thanks on behalf of the participants and she lauded both FIFA and FUFA for providing good education material.

    “On behalf of the Clubs, I want to sincerly thank FUFA for choosing to partake of such a wonderful Project. Additionally, I thank FIFA for sending us good facilitators who have been able to deliver the message to us and we promise to go back and impliment whatever has been taught.”

    At the end of the final day Club Chairmen and CEOs were awarded with certificates of participation. Each club was also given 10 FUFA Official Matchballs (Zakayo).

    The first day put emphasis on governance and strategic planning while the final day dwelled on marketing and commercial modules.

    StarTimes Uganda Premier League CEO Bernard Bainamani appreciated the experts FIFA sent to Uganda indicating their vast knowledge and experience should be a point of inspiration for the local clubs.

    “We thank FIFA for the choice of instructors that they sent to us. There CVs tell it all because they have been directly involved with clubs and know how exactly our Clubs can improve. I have the belief that Club Chairmen and CEOs will put into practice the concepts they learnt from this Programme.”

    What some of the Club officials said

    Abdu Kawuulu Mwanje – Lugazi FC Chairman

    “As representatives from Lugazi FC, marketing and financial management topics were our major areas of interest. I want to thank the FUFA administration for the organisation and the instructors for the job well done.”

    Ronald Barente – BUL FC Chairman

    ”We are extremely pleased with what FUFA is trying to do in terms of improving our League. Learning never stops and it is the most important aspect of life. The two days have been resourceful for us because the instructors gave us so many tips on how to become better both as individual clubs but also as a League.”

    Sula Kamoga – CEO, Wakiso Giants FC

    “ The instructors put emphasis on governance structures of clubs, an aspect we tend to ignore as Ugandan Clubs. Once we improve on the governance of our clubs then the future is bright. I believe we have benefited a lot from this Programme and we will try to make improvements where the challenges have been.”

    Pictorial

  • FUFA Statement on National Assistant Referee Peter Kabugo

    FUFA Statement on National Assistant Referee Peter Kabugo

    The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) regrets to announce the sudden passing of National Assistant Referee Peter Kabugo, who collapsed during a league match at Wankulukuku Stadium on Friday 1st November 2024.

    A postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death.

    FUFA extends heartfelt condolences to Peter’s family, loved ones, Uganda Football Referees Association, and friends. We request privacy for the family during this difficult time.

    Rest in Peace, Peter Kabugo.

  • FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme gets underway in Uganda

    FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme gets underway in Uganda

    The FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Programme in Africa officially started on Thursday at Golden Tulip Hotel in Kampala, Uganda.

    The Programme aimed at enhancing club football management was officially opened by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim who was in the company of FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha and FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi.

    Also present were FUFA Executive Committee Members; Rogers Byamukama, Rogers Mulindwa, Sam Mpiima, Ronnie Kalema, Apollo Ahimbisibwe and Dan Obote.

    FUFA CEO Edgar Watson Suubi, FUFA Deputy CEO-Services Humphrey Mandu and StarTimes Uganda Premier League CEO Bernard Bainamani also attended the event.

    FIFA’s delegation was headed by Solomon Mudege, the Head of FIFA Development Programmes- Africa, Marcos Picallo Aguilar- FIFA Senior Professional Football Manager and Development, Davis Ndeyisenga- FIFA Lead Regional Office MA Division CECAFA, Silmara Sousa- MA Regional Coordinator, FIFA Development Programmes and Osman Salah- MA Africa Coordinator, Member Associations Africa.

    Others included Abigail Haile Michael – MA Development Manager FIFA Member Association Regional Office and Kaly Keza- FIFA Member Association Regional Office Kigali

    The FIFA instructors included Marcos Pelegrin, Javier Jose Pedro Sobribo and Pedro Manuel Correia Miranda.

    In his remarks, FUFA President called upon Club administrators to embrace such Programmes because they help in transforming the League in areas such as governance, business and sporting.

    “We are glad that FIFA’s support is not limited to only Federations (MAs) but even Clubs are benefiting from Projects like this one. As FUFA, we extend our sincere thanks to FIFA and it is now upon the club administrators here to partake of the information and knowledge shared in order to become better brands,” he said before adding.

    “Knowledge is power and you need it to transform society. I therefore implore our clubs to fully embrace this Programme.”

    FIFA Head of Development Programmes-Africa Solomon Mudege indicated this Programme will in the long run help football clubs in Africa to holistically develop.

    “This Programme is a core activity of FIFA in order to build capacity in clubs and Leagues so that there is holistic growth of the game in the long run.”

    Marcos Picallo Aguilar – Senior Professional Football Manager and Development- FIFA revealed that this Programme has been rolled out to 11 African countries and Clubs will be tasked to share their strategic plans later.

    FIFA will then select clubs with the best strategic plans and invite them to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in USA for further programmes.

    Day one of the workshop dwelled on two topics namely Strategic Planning and Governance.

    Participants (StarTimes Uganda Premier League Club Chairmen and CEOs) were taken through various modules how they can formulate strategic plans, club organisational structures and separation of powers among others.

    Day Two (Friday) which is the final day of the workshop will put emphasis on financial, brand and marketing strategies.

  • Uganda’s Top Flight Teams to Benefit from FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Workshop

    Uganda’s Top Flight Teams to Benefit from FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management Workshop

    The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) is set to host a high-profile FIFA delegation from October 29 to November 1, 2024.

    Part of the delegation of Silmara Sousa, Head of Development Programmes and Salah Osman MA Africa Coordinator has arrived in Uganda on Tuesday afternoon. 

    The FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management workshop, to be held at Golden Tulip Hotel in Kampala, aims to enhance club football management globally.

    The FIFA Club Professionalisation and Management – Africa Edition will bring together two representatives from each of Uganda’s 16 Premier League clubs.

    FUFA Projects Manager Sumaya Hood Kiwanuka confirmed invitations have been sent to participating clubs, following a circular from FUFA signed off by the Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson.

    ‘We expect strong participation, as club officials are eager to share knowledge with FIFA experts and elevate Ugandan football.’ said Kiwanuka

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim will attend the opening ceremony and participate in the workshop.

    ‘Participants will receive FIFA certificates upon full attendance.  The topics to be covered will be crucial to Ugandan club football development’ noted part of the circular signed by Watson.

    This initiative is part of FIFA’s support for Member Associations, aligning with FUFA’s vision to enhance its various club competitions.

  • FUFA Hands over 320 Zakayo Balls to StarTimes Uganda Premier League Clubs

    FUFA Hands over 320 Zakayo Balls to StarTimes Uganda Premier League Clubs

    The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has handed over Zakayo balls to the CEOs of clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League at an event held at the federation’s premises, presided over by the 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi.

    In her address, the FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, thanked the Uganda Premier League Secretariat for enforcing the regulations regarding the official matchday ball. She also expressed gratitude to the clubs for adhering to the regulation.

    Today, we are further implementing sections of the FUFA Technical Masterplan for the next five years, which we launched at the Imperial Royale Hotel, to ensure that an official ball is used in the country. This section concerns the Premier League, where we established a policy that the matchday ball must be the Zakayo ball. I thank the Uganda Premier League Secretariat and the teams in the first division for ensuring this regulation is followed. Today, I am pleased to announce, on behalf of the federation, that there is an ample supply of these balls in FUFA’s stores. Each club has been allocated 20 balls.

    Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, FUFA 3rd Vice President

    Ten clubs had representatives present at the event. They included Wakiso Giants FC’s Kamoga Sula, Vipers SC’s Muwanga Kenneth (Media Manager), Police FC’s Dr. Hakim Aziz, Express FC Miiro Ashraf, URA FC’s Munaaba Allan, KCCA FC’s Nagenda Joshua (Admin), SC Villa’s Mutajazi Sulaiman (Deputy CEO), Lugazi FC’s Sulait Abdul Swamadu, NEC FC’s Okorotum Jonathan, and UPDF FC’s Mambo Walter.

  • FUFA sets up Player Injury surveillance project

    FUFA sets up Player Injury surveillance project

    The field of Sports Medicine is an important part of modern day football and is a requirement in Club Licensing. Under the FUFA PRO-FOOTBALL pillar of the FUFA Technical Master Plan, emphasis has been put on Sports Medicine in order for us to improve player health which leads to optimum player performance.

    It is upon this background that the FUFA Head of Football Medical Services, also Executive Committee Member, Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, together with the Football Development Department, have initiated a FUFA PLAYERS INJURIES SURVEILLANCE PROJECT that will cover primarily 1st Divisions Men and Women as well as 2nd Division Men and Stanbic Uganda Cup. Matches and training injuries data shall be required.

    The requirement to fill and submit Injury surveillance has been incorporated in FUFA Competitions Rules Article 38(5) as below;

    The medical personnel shall be required to file player medical related information to FUFA specifically the injury surveillance data on specific forms provided by FUFA. Failure to submit medical information as required may lead to sanctions on the club and the registered medical person in accordance with FUFA Ethics Code

    THE PROJECT

    An online platform has been designed and is ready for usage by clubs’ Heads of Medical Services to fill and submit required data online. To support you with this regulatory compliance, a one Day Zoom Session on Injury Surveillance Project and use of the online platform is being organized with a requirement of Club’s head of Medical Services as follows.

    Venue: Online
    Date: Monday 30th September 2024
    Time: 02:00pm

    ZOOM LINK

    FUFA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

    Join Zoom Meeting
    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/3582098386?pwd=lydIEVrwl7PkrYECSyHgudcVHLzaVU.1&omn=85776804420

  • 40 officials from StarTimes Uganda Premier League and Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League complete First-Ever Players’ Performance Tracking and Monitoring Course

    40 officials from StarTimes Uganda Premier League and Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League complete First-Ever Players’ Performance Tracking and Monitoring Course

    In a groundbreaking move for Ugandan football, 40 participants were awarded certificates after completing the first-ever Players’ Performance Tracking and Monitoring Course in the country.

    The two-day course, which ran from Tuesday, September 17, to Wednesday, September 18, 2024, took place at MultiTech Business School in Kampala. This initiative represents FUFA’s ongoing efforts to revolutionize the monitoring, evaluation, and overall management of player performance in Uganda’s top-tier football leagues.

    The course was facilitated by South African expert Ashley De Beer, a highly regarded specialist in sports technology, who led participants through the ins and outs of utilizing modern tools to track and analyze player performance. Attendees included representatives from the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League, the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and FUFA staff members.

    This training was the first of its kind to be offered in Uganda, and it marks a significant milestone for the development of local football. As the football landscape globally embraces technology, this course represents FUFA’s determination to remain at the forefront of football innovation in Africa as per its vision of being the number one footballing nation on and off the pitch.

    By equipping local teams with these tools, FUFA is enabling coaches and team officials to make data-driven decisions in team selection, tactics, and player development.

    In his closing remarks at the certification ceremony, Ronnie Kalema, a member of the FUFA Executive Committee, lauded the participants for their commitment and underlined the importance of this initiative:

    “This technology will improve the accuracy of the player selection process for the national teams. With real-time data on players’ performances, it’s easier to assess who can make the biggest impact at both the club and national team levels.”

    Mr. Kalema also used the occasion to announce that going forward, FUFA coaching courses will integrate modules focused on research and technology trends in football. He stressed that this would be essential in modernizing the way Ugandan coaches approach the game.

    One of the highlights of the course was the introduction of Catapult Player Performance Tracking Technology, a state-of-the-art system used by elite clubs and national teams globally to track and monitor players’ physical output and performance metrics. Each men’s team in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League received a 21-player tracking set, while the women’s teams in the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League were given 18-player sets.

    The Catapult technology provides a range of data points that give coaches deep insights into player performance. These include speed, distance covered, intensity of effort, and positioning on the field. With such technology, coaches can make informed decisions regarding player fitness, readiness for matches, and potential injury risks. Additionally, this system will allow for precise comparisons of player output, leading to more objective player evaluations for National Teams selection.

    FUFA’s provision of this technology to both men’s and women’s top-tier teams demonstrates the federation’s commitment to gender equality and enhancing women’s football.

    The 40 participants, representing various teams across the two leagues, expressed their enthusiasm about the new knowledge and tools at their disposal. With performance tracking technology now part of their resources, teams can adopt a more scientific approach to player development and match preparation. The information gathered from these systems can also be used to create personalized training regimens, optimize recovery periods, and improve team tactics based on data-driven analysis.

    For teams in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League, this means that every aspect of their players’ fitness and on-field contributions can be closely monitored. This will inevitably lead to better performances and give Ugandan football a competitive edge in regional and international competitions.

    Ashley De Beer, the course instructor, commented on the progress made during the two days of intensive training:

    “The participants were highly engaged and demonstrated a clear willingness to embrace this new technology. I’m confident that with continued use, they will see significant improvements in the way they manage their teams and monitor player progress.”

    This course was just the beginning of FUFA’s broader plan to incorporate technology into every aspect of the game through the FUFA Technical Master Plan. By adding research and technology trends as a module in future coaching courses, FUFA is equipping coaches with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in global football.

    The introduction of the Catapult system also strengthens Uganda’s preparations for international competitions. With more precise data on player fitness, output, and potential, FUFA’s national team coaches will have an invaluable resource when it comes to assembling squads for major tournaments. This will increase the national teams’ chances of success and put Uganda in a better position to compete with top footballing nations in Africa and beyond.

  • Football enthusiasts relish experience at refurbished Mandela National Stadium

    Football enthusiasts relish experience at refurbished Mandela National Stadium

    Wednesday, 1st May 2024 was International Labour Day but in Uganda’s context, it was a day for the football enthusiasts to quench thirst of a place that is so dear to them.

    Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) is the cathedral of Ugandan Football and since 2019, the facility had not witnessed any football action due to the renovation works.

    Since then it has always been evident that football wanted to return to its cradle and the delays in the refurbishment always left a feeling of anxiety amongst those that hold football dear to their hearts.

    With government beating around the clock to see to it that the stadium is given the greenlight by CAF to host the upcoming World Cup Qualifier matches, there has been a lot of work in recent weeks to meet the required standards.

    FUFA came up with an idea to have test matches at the venue as a way of showing that Namboole is ready for international games. And when the idea was sold to StarTimes Uganda Premier League, the organisers and clubs fully supported it.

    The choice of BUL FC hosting Vipers SC and KCCA FC taking on rivals SC Villa in a double header was a perfect choice for so many reasons but key among them was the bearing the two games have in the title chase.

    When the development was announced last week, Ugandans fully embraced the idea and immediately.

    Come D-Day, not even the heavy downpour on Wednesday afternoon stopped the fans who for long wanted to return to Namboole to turn up in big numbers.

    Several dignitaries turned up including Uganda’s Vice President Emeritus H.E Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang and National Council of Sports Chairman Tashobya Ambros and General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel.

    Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put, his predecessor Milutin Sredojevic aka Mucho and Crested Cranes Head Coach Sheryl Botes were all in attendance.

    Artistes like Eddy Kenzo and Pia Pounds also attended while City evangelist Apostle Dr. Joseph Sserwadda was also in the crowd to witness the return of football to Namboole.

    Many left Namboole delighted about the playing surface for both the outside pitch and the main ground. Some were seen taking pictures on the training pitch.

    Inside the stadium, fans took selfies to share with the wider community on their social media platforms.

    The four clubs that played equally did not disappoint with the display on the pitch.

    In the first game, BU FC edged Vipers SC 1-0 courtesy of Jerome Kirya’s goal in the first half.

    The second game saw KCCA FC defeat SC Villa 2-0 with Arafat Usama Kizza bagging a brace.

  • Uganda Premier League games to be used as part of test events at refurbished Mandela National Stadium

    Uganda Premier League games to be used as part of test events at refurbished Mandela National Stadium

    FUFA and the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Secretariat have confirmed that two games will be staged at Mandela National Stadium as part of the test events to have the facility re-opened to international games.

    FUFA EXCO Member Rogers Byamuka addressing the media.

    In a press conference held at FUFA Complex on Wednesday, FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Byamukama who represented the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim confirmed the latest development.

    He was flanked by League Manager Paul Kabaikaramu, KCCA FC CEO Anisha Muhoozi, FUFA Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu and StarTimes representative Junior Ssembatya.

    Byamukama revealed that the move is part of the requests made by CAF before the stadium is granted the greenlight to host international games.

    “As you are aware, there have been renovation works ongoing at Mandela National Stadium and with the process coming to the final stages, CAF requested that we have a serie of test events, one of the those is hosting test matches,” he started.

    “We reached out to the League Secretariat who engaged two teams to host their games at Mandela National Stadium. Thankfully, KCCA FC and BUL FC agreed to play against SC Villa and Vipers SC respectively. We believe these are two big games that have a say in the title race and we are convinced they will give us a good test of the refurbished stadium.” He added.

    The games will take place on 1st May 2024 with BUL FC facing Vipers SC at 4PM EAT before KCCA FC playing SC Villa at 7PM EAT.

    Kabaikaramu, the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Manager revealed that the two teams were positive to the idea and believes having a double header at this time is a perfect timing.

    “We are glad that Namboole is coming back and what a moment for us as a League to have two games on the same day there. Both KCCA FC and BUL FC were positive to the idea and we believe the importance of the games will even come with additional attention.” He stated.

    Anisha Muhoozi, the KCCA CEO revealed they are ready for the experience at Namboole and called upon fans to turn up in big numbers.

    “We all know Namboole is the home of Ugandan Football and to see that the stadium is returning to functionality is a good step. I therefore call upon all our fans to come in big numbers and we experience the new Mandela National Stadium.”

    It was confirmed that entrance fee for the fans will be UGX 10,000 ordinary and UGX 50,000. Information about purchase of tickets will be released on Friday.

    FUFA Deputy CEO, Humphrey Mandu who also doubles as CAF Safety and Security officer assured the general public that there will be ample deployment of both covert and overt security details.

    “We have been in touch with the two hosts clubs as far as security and safety is concerned and engaged Uganda Police to see that there will be enough deployment before, during and after the game. I therefore call upon fans to turn up in big numbers.”

    StarTimes Operations Manager in charge of the League confirmed that the two games will be broadcast live on Sanyuka Prime and FUFA Tv.

    FUFA is working towards making sure CAF grants Mandela National Stadium the greenlight to host the upcoming 2026 FUFA World Cup Qualifiers. Uganda Cranes will host Botswana and Algeria on 5th and 9th June respectively.

  • Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) National Workshop Ends

    Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) National Workshop Ends

    The two-day workshop organised by the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) in collaboration with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ended today at Imperial Royale Hotel and was closed by the Chairman of the First Instance Body Okello Lee.

    While addressing the participants, he advised the clubs to embrace the new developments.

    To the CEOs that have attended the workshop, I want you to embrace the Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) and take the knowledge acquired seriously. In your free time, log into the portal and familiarise yourself with it.

    Okello Lee, Chairman of the First Instance Body

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Premier League Bernard Bainamani Bampaire thanked FUFA on behalf of the board and secretariat.

    I am very happy on behalf of the board and the secretariat for this workshop. This is one of the tools that helps in the development of the club. Let us embrace this online platform, we cannot go wrong. I know you are scared of CAF involvement but this is the way to go.

    Bernard Bainamani Bampaire, Uganda Premier League CEO

    The two-day workshop is being attended by CEOs from the clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, betPawa Big League and FUFA Women Super League.

    The general objectives of the workshop are:

    • training of users for the CLOP;
    • present the CAF Club Licensing regulatory framework (edition 2022) for men´s and women’s;
    • explanation of mandatory criteria for the domestic and continental competitions.

    The Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) is to start being operational in the 2024/2025 Season.

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  • Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) National Workshop Begins

    Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) National Workshop Begins

    The Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) in collaboration with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has organised a Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) National Workshop that started today morning at the Imperial Royale Hotel.

    The two-day workshop is being attended by CEOs from the clubs in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, betPawa Big League and FUFA Women Super League.

    The FUFA 1st Vice President presided over the opening ceremony that was attended by the General Secretary National Council of Sport Dr. Ogwel Bernard Patrick, CAF Instructors Muhammad F. Sidat and John Muhire, and FUFA Executive Committee Members Rogers Mulindwa and Ronnie Kalema.

    The secretariat was led by the FUFA CEO Edgar S. Watson.

    The general objectives of the workshop are:

    • training of users for the CLOP;
    • present the CAF Club Licensing regulatory framework (edition 2022) for men´s and women’s;
    • explanation of mandatory criteria for the domestic and continental competitions.

    The Club Licensing Online Platform (CLOP) is to start being operational in the 2024/2025 Season.

    Quotes

    Pictorial

  • FUFA unveils official sportswear manufacturer, competitions Matchball

    FUFA unveils official sportswear manufacturer, competitions Matchball

    FUFA has on Friday registered another milestone, unveiling two brands. The function held at FUFA Complex in Mengo saw the Federation roll out Janzi, as the official FUFA Sportswear manufacturer and Zakayo (official FUFA Matchball).




    The event was graced by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim in the company of FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Executive Committee members Rogers Byamukama, Issa Magoola, Ronnie Kalema and Apollo Ahimbisibwe.


    There were also several club Chairpersons/ Presidents, former and active players, the media and other personalities.

    The FUFA President explained the idea behind Janzi and how it will help the Federation improve its brand.

    “As FUFA, we are always innovative and today we unveil to you, Janzi, the official Sportswear Manufacturer of all FUFA sports gear and assortments,” he started.

    “Janzi is a registered trademark that will help FUFA to avoid middlemen. We all know that several kit manufacturers don’t own factories but only package and sell to us. We believe having our own brand will help us to get these items at a cheaper price.” He added.

    Janzi will produce items such as Zakayo (FUFA official Matchballs), jerseys, travel bags, tracksuits, caps, hats, branded cups, umbrellas etc.

    At the same event, Zakayo was launched by FUFA CEO Edgar Watson who explained the history behind its making.

    “The FUFA Match ball was made with consideration of our heritage as Ugandans. The official name of the ball is Zakayo, a legendary chimpanzee whose story dates back to 1963 in Semiliki l National Park but later transferred to Entebbe Zoo where he lived until he died in 2018.” Watson explained.

    “The ball has been made with consideration of the latest trends in terms of texture, design, durability and flight.” He added.

    Zakayo has patches of the three colours of the Uganda flag. Black, yellow and red stand for Ethnicity, Abundant sunshine and Brotherhood.

    The texture on the ball’s outer skin is designed to offer consistent flight, rate of spin and speed.

    There have been extensive experiments with the ball on different grounds, including bare pitches and the texture is suitable to last long enough.

    Watson also revealed that 𝗭𝗮𝗸𝗮𝘆𝗼 will cost Ushs 50,000 and Ushs 100,000 because it has been produced in two categories.

    It immediately gets to the market and can now be purchased at the FUFA Merchandise shop in Mengo (at FUFA Complex.

    For the start, every StarTimes Uganda Premier League club has been given 25 balls (20 for the Senior Team and 5 for the Junior Team).

    betPawa Big League clubs received 15 Balls while FUFA Women Super League have also received 15 balls.

  • FUFA Club Licensing Appeals Committee upholds decision in regard to Arua Hill SC

    FUFA Club Licensing Appeals Committee upholds decision in regard to Arua Hill SC

    The FUFA Club Licensing Appeals Committee has upheld the decision taken in regard to Arua Hill SC playing in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.

    The FUFA Club Licensing Committee (The First Instance Body) noted that Arua Hill Sports Club had continuously violated its obligations under the FUFA Club Licensing Regulations.

    On January 10th 2024, the Committee conducted a meeting to assess Arua Hill Sports Club’s file and its standing across all the five aspects of the Club Licensing Criteria. This was prompted by among others reports of the club failing to raise the required number of players for a football match and receiving several club ownership transfers.

    Nonetheless, the Committee gave the club an opportunity to defend itself and requested it to re-submit the information as required by the regulations.

    Despite efforts to comply, the Club Licensing Committee found that the information filed by Arua Hill SC fell short of the minimum licensing requirements and a decision was taken to withdraw the license.

    The club then went ahead to appeal against the aforementioned decision.

    After thorough investigation, the FUFA Club Licensing Appeals Committee agreed with the decision taken by the First Instance Body and its ruling has therefore been upheld.

    Arua Hill SC is therefore advised by the FUFA Club Licensing Committee to prepare for the 2024/25 Betpawa Big League season (second division).