FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations

Category: League Football

  • FUFA, StarTimes enter partnership, 60 league games to be broadcast live on FUFA TV

    FUFA, StarTimes enter partnership, 60 league games to be broadcast live on FUFA TV

    Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and pay TV company StarTimes have on Thursday entered into a partnership to broadcast games in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League games, starting with the 2022/23 season that gets underway on Friday, 30th September.

    Details of the new partnership were announced by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and StarTimes Uganda Vice President, Aldrine Nsubuga in a press briefing held at FUFA Complex.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim (L) and StarTimes Uganda Vice President Aldrine Nsubuga.

    FUFA Super League Board Vice Chairman, David Sserebe was also present during the function.

    FUFA Super League Board Vice Chairman David Sserebe.

    The FUFA President indicated this is a giant step in the development of domestic competitions in Uganda.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

    “It is another momentous milestone for us as football in this country, knowing where we are coming from, when we get such giant leaps, we believe that our dreams and desires will be achieved. Our vision is to be the number one footballing nation in Africa on and off the pitch but you cannot achieve this, without strong competitions and competitions are made with money. Football money comes from television and without it you cannot generate enough money for you to ably compete,” he started before adding, “As a Federation we decided to take a journey of trying to look for the money for football. It has been proven all over the world that football money majorly comes from television. Until you make corporations with television, that is how you can add value to the game.”

    FUFA President speaking during the press conference.

    The FUFA President also indicated that going forward, FUFA TV will broadcast games across the three professional leagues that include the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, StarTimes FUFA Big League and the FUFA Women Super League.

    “We have also as FUFA taken strategy to have the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, StarTimes FUFA Big League and the FUFA Women Super League as the professional Leagues. And for us to be able to help these clubs get more revenue, we need to put them on TV. He added.

    StarTimes Uganda Vice President, Aldrine Nsubuga expressed delight in the new partnership indicating the future is bright for the game of football with increased broadcast of domestic competitions.

    StarTimes Uganda Vice President Aldrine Nsubuga.

    “I am pleased to announce that StarTimes and FUFA have gone into a partnership to broadcast at least 60 games per season on FUFA TV for the six years. This creates an opportunity to have more game on TV. This is just a continuation of the journey that we started four year ago from scratch but we are confident that the future is bright.” He said.

    Nsubuga confirmed that starting Friday, 30th September, FUFA TV will go live on StarTimes both on the aerial and satellite platforms.

    “Friday this Friday, FUFA TV will be live on StarTimes, Channel 252 on aerial platforms and 239 on satellite. StarTimes Uganda Premier League games will exclusively air on these channels. FUFA TV is still available on other platforms but the games will only show on StarTimes.” He added.

    FUFA President appealed to the fans to support Ugandan football by buying decoders and subscribing because that is one of the ways clubs will be able to generate income.

    “I would like to appeal the fans of football that we need to pay for football and this is through subscription. When you pay to watch television, the money eventually gets to the clubs and in the long run, they can be self-reliant.”

    The 2022/23 StarTimes Uganda Premier League starts on Friday with defending Champions Vipers SC hosting Soltilo Bright Stars FC at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

  • FUFA Club Licensing helps to improve football in Uganda

    FUFA Club Licensing helps to improve football in Uganda

    The Chairman of the FUFA Club Licensing Committee Rogers Mulindwa has witnessed baby steps taken in professionalising club football in Uganda. Many times, the Club Licensing Committee faces resistance from stakeholders during the off season when the Licensing exercise pens up in preparation for the new season.

    Rogers Mulindwa, FUFA Executive Committee Member and FUFA Club Licensing Committee Chairman.

    This year, the Club Licensing Committee and FUFA Secretariat rolled out the exercise as early as March with internal preparations.

    The FUFA Communications team caught up with Mulindwa and shares his experience and thoughts about the Club Licensing exercise this season.

    Mulindwa on Club Licensing exercise this season

    It has been a very successful Club Licensing exercise for the season 2022/23.

    We have achieved quite a lot. This is the eleventh year since we started Club Licensing in Uganda and of course our clubs have benefited a lot amidst challenges.

    The home team dug out at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

    Mulindwa on Compliance by clubs

    Club Licensing is a tool for both development and benchmarking of professional football. Here we expect our clubs to comply with some criteria and we begin holding consultative meetings with Club owners, discuss with them, the road map is issued then they have to submit the requirements and the First Instance Body has to convene.

    FUFA EXCO member and Club Licensing Committee Chairman Rogers Mulindwa talking to FBL Club officials.

    Mulindwa on Clubs getting Licenses

    Clubs that succeed get licenses to compete in FUFA Competitions then those that do not meet the standards are left out but with an opportunity to appeal to the FUFA Appeals Committee which can either grant them permission or uphold the decision of the Club Licensing Committee.

    Action between Rines SS and Uganda Martyrs.

    Mulindwa on number of teams to play in the Uganda Premier League this season

    This season, we shall ave 15 teams competing in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League for the first time in the recent past because one of the members Kyetume FC did not meet the requirements.

    Mulindwa on the success story of Club Licensing

    Of course we have registered a number of successes and one of those is in the area of governance where clubs have appreciated the importance of having streamlined administration and proper running of the team.

    Vipers and Uganda Hippos midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga.

    We have also improved on the stadia. The playing surfaces look better for most of the teams, dressing rooms are better among others.

    There is also improvement in the discipline on the technical bench since we introduced the bench permits, restricting the number of people that sit on the bench.

    In the area of capacity building, we have had many people go for training. For instance we have many coaches who have enrolled for CAF License A and B. This is a standard we set that head coaches must have CAF A coaching licenses while the assistants must have a minimum of CAF B. However this season, we shall allow CAF B holders for the Head coach and assistant.

    General Coordinators after successfully completing their course.

    For Youth Football, we have been able to register academies and we believe that will help in nurturing of young players the right way.

    Mulindwa on the Challenges faced during Club Licensing

    One of the biggest challenges we have is that a good number of teams still believe in changing technical and administration staff. You find that a club has a new coach every season and that definitely hinders continuity.

    Former Police FC Coach Abdallah Mubiru.

    Additionally, some clubs are failing to meet the minimum requirements for instance having at least 18 players on the FUFA Connect System to be granted a license. .

    Mulindwa on the future of Club Licensing

    Our focus after this is to have continuous spot checks during the season, making sure that clubs do not work outside the set standards.

    We are also going to continue with the FUFA Club Pro Agenda where constant interface with the clubs will be made.

    Then we shall do a review after the season to know where the successes and challenges have been and how best we can work ahead of the next season.

    I want to congratulate clubs like Vipers SC, She Corporate FC, Vipers SC and Jinja North United that have successfully undergone the Club Licensing exercise and this tool is not a punishment but rather aimed at adding quality to our League.

    The 5 Key Pillars of FUFA Club Licensing

    • Sporting.
    • Finance.
    • Administration and Personnel.
    • Structure and Legal.
    • Infrastructure.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEE84nZ9C1k
  • FUFA takes giant steps towards Creation of a Community Club in Acholi region

    FUFA takes giant steps towards Creation of a Community Club in Acholi region

    Football has four types of club ownership and these are; Institutional, Private (Individual), Community (membership) and Hybrid clubs. However, defining and publicly listing Club ownership has been one of the biggest challenges to football professionalization in Uganda.

    Well aligned ownership breeds good governance, administration and sense of belonging by the people owning the clubs depending on the model chosen.

    The 27th FUFA Exco took a decision on 31st August 2022 and approved the proposal for creation of community clubs; a model that will create sustainable and accountable clubs built to last.

    A section of the football administrators that attended the meeting at Acholi Inn.

    The FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim in company of Executive Committee members Rogers Byamukama, Ronnie Kalema and Dan Obote held a consultative meeting with stakeholders from Acholi region to share ideas on the possible creation of a Community club in their region. The meeting was held on Sunday 11th September 2022 at Acholi Inn, Gulu City.

    FUFA President lecturing during the launch of the FUFA Community Clubs Programme at Acholi Inn.

    The FUFA Professional Leagues Manager Shawn Mubiru also attended the meeting.

    FUFA Professional Leagues Manager, Shawn Mubiru (blue shirt).

    The launch of the framework on Community Clubs was to guide the football passionate regions create strong founded and self-sustaining football clubs that will have an attachment and appeal to the masses of selected regions.

    The FUFA Executive identified and provided potential areas of focus where the programme will be first implemented with Acholi, Tooro and Masaka being earmarked as the areas to kick start the programme.

    A section of Acholi Province fans at the Pece War Memorial Stadium during the 2019 FUFA Drum tournament.

    The FUFA President opened his speech with words of praise to the people of Northern Uganda on a day Acholi Province took on Buganda Province in the 1st leg quarterfinals of the FUFA Drum.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim

    ‘Thank you, the people of Acholi, for welcoming us dearly and in such big numbers. Most importantly thank you for loving and embracing the FUFA Drum. The people of Northern Uganda you are undoubtedly the biggest supporters of the ‘FUFA Drum. Thank you for loving and supporting football,’ FUFA President began his presentation.

    ‘FUFA together with the people of Acholi we are in the process of giving guidance on creating a football club in your Province. Support us and we shall deliver it. We want a club that can win the Uganda Premier league, a club that can host international matches in the facilities that are in Acholi.’ He added.

    FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim making his address.

    ‘Community clubs are the future. We want a platform that is going to tell the Acholi story; how do you dance? How do you celebrate among other things?’ noted the FUFA President.

    Decorated UPDF General Charles Otema Awany who is the Patron of the Acholi Province team led a host of high-profile officials from Acholi region that included Business Owners, Members of Parliament, district chairpersons and Mayors, district sports officials, Northern regions district officials, District Football Association (DFA) officers among other opinion leaders and high-profile personalities from Acholi.

    General Charles Otema Awany.
    Gulu City Mayor His Worship Alfred Okwonga speaking during the meeting.
    Member of Parliament, Hon. Gilbert Olanyah putting across his message in the meeting.

    The meeting culminated into the creation of a 10-man committee that has been charged with the responsibility of organizing and overseeing the initial stages of creating a community club in Acholi.

    Calvin Okello
    Anthony Akera
    Bernard Loum
    Emmanuel Ogik
    Alfred Okwonga
    Phillip Lukara
    Gilbert Olanyah
    John Paul Kifasi
    Mathew Dickens Canamitu Jolly Laker

    L-R: General Charles Otema Awany, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and FUFA Executive Committee Member- Northern Region, Dan Obote having a chat.

    The four (4) types of club ownership

    1. Institutional Clubs

    Owned by a private company or government institution that is created by an act of parliament or a government parastatal.

    This model is principally setup as a PR and/or CSR tool for the institution. 

    1. Private Clubs

    Owned by a shareholding of natural and/or legal persons. This model is principally setup for football business purposes.

    Vipers Sports Club is owned by Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa who is the majority shareholder.
    1. Community Clubs

    Owned by a membership of more than 100 or so fans. This model is setup for sport but proven most suitable for posterity and sports business.

    1. Hybrid Model

    A combination of the above models. This model is normally a compromise position of various inherited ownerships.

    SC Villa fans cheer on their team during a league game. The team has a semblance of both private and community ownership.

    Challenges to find a suiting governance model practices.

    Depending on the objectives and history of the club, different models suit different clubs and they have different advantages and disadvantages.

    Social return on investment which include; increased social connectedness, wellbeing, employment outcomes; personal development; physical health; civic pride and support of other community groups.

    Members of community clubs gain greater social support than through their other social networks. They help people develop skills in public speaking, problem solving, decision making, conflict resolution, and dealing with people from diverse backgrounds.

    Community Football clubs are important and effective vehicles for delivering health and safety campaign messages for the people.They harness the collective energy of players, coaches, administrators, volunteers and supporters to not only deliver sport and social activities for members, but for their respective communities.

    Creation of direct employment opportunities for their communities and they are large consumers within their own communities, supporting local businesses such as bakeries, cafes, hotels, butchers, boda bodas, bars, restaurants and local trades people.

  • 27th FUFA Exco: Key Decisions from the meeting held on 31st August 2022 at FUFA House

    27th FUFA Exco: Key Decisions from the meeting held on 31st August 2022 at FUFA House

    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.

    1. The Adhoc Committee has;
    2. Sam Mpiima- Chairman
    3. Dr. Azah Taib-Member
    4. Kibazo Peter- Member
    5. Julian Namuganga-Member
    6. 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;

    1. Rogers Byamukama-Chairman
    2. Rogers Mulindwa- Member
    3. Sabiiti Muwanga-Member
    4. Ahmed Hussein-Member
    5. 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;

    1. 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.
    2. Allow registration of players whose contracts expire during competition period
    3. Youth football player agreements
    4. School-player scholarship agreements for a maximum of three years
    5. Minor players to be registered on FUFA Connect System
    6. 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.
    7. 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;

    1. Kyambura Football to Bunyaruguru Tigers Football Club
    2. Kazinga Lions Football Club to Bunyaruguru United Football Club
    3. 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 By-elections 2022: Electoral Committee releases list of candidates

    FUFA By-elections 2022: Electoral Committee releases list of candidates

    The Chairman of the FUFA Electoral Committee Mathias Bwire has released a list of candidates for to fill up positions during the forthcoming By- Election.

    The list of candidates is as below;

  • FUFA Competitions Disciplinary Panel: Onduparaka, Kataka sanctioned as Noah Kizito is suspended for six months

    FUFA Competitions Disciplinary Panel: Onduparaka, Kataka sanctioned as Noah Kizito is suspended for six months

    Onduparaka FC sanctioned by FUFA for repeated offences of fans’ hooliganism

    The FUFA Competitions Disciplinary Panel has sanctioned Onduparaka FC for breach of Article 31(10) of the FUFA Competitions Rules during their home league match with Arua Hill SC on 6th May 2022 at Green Light Stadium in Arua.

    Onduparaka FC has been sanctioned;

    • A deduction of two points and two goals which shall be implemented upon commencement of the 2022/2023 Uganda Premier league season despite the presence of the suspended one point and one goal deduction.
    • Playing 5 home games behind closed doors outside the West Nile Province shall be implemented upon commencement of the 2022/2023 Uganda Premier league season. The games will be played on a neutral stadium cleared by the Club Licensing Committee for use during Uganda Premier league matches.

    Kataka FC banned from using home venue for 5 matches, to lose 2 points and 2 goals due to fans’ hooliganism

    The FUFA Competitions Disciplinary Panel has sanctioned Kataka FC for breach of Article 31(10) of the FUFA Competitions Rules during their home league match with Kyetume FC on 28th April 2022 at Mbale Municipal Stadium.

    Kataka FC has been sanctioned;

    • A deduction of two points and two goals that shall be effected from points accumulated upon commencement of the 2022/2023 FUFA Big League season.
    • Playing 5 home games behind closed doors outside the Bugisu Province and shall be implemented upon commencement of the 2022/2023 FUFA Big League season. The games will be played on a neutral stadium cleared by the Club Licensing Committee for use during FUFA Big League matches.

    FUFA suspends Kataka FC player Noah Kizito for 6 months

    The FUFA Competitions Disciplinary Panel has suspended Noah Kizito of Kataka FC from all football activities for a period of six months as an appropriate corrective measure for his misconduct against an opponent Baker Buyala in the FUFA Big League match between his club and Kyetume FC on 28th April, 2022 at Mbale Municipal Stadium.

    The sanction will be served at the commencement of the 2022/2023 season.

  • Micho: We shall continue with the never Give up attitude against Niger

    Micho: We shall continue with the never Give up attitude against Niger

    Uganda Cranes will take on Niger in the 2nd game of the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers on Wednesday at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

    The match set to kick off at 4pm (EAT) will see head coach of Uganda Cranes Milutin Sredojevic looking to set his charges to collect maximum points. Micho and hos Captain Emma Okwi addressed the media during the pre-match press conference at FUFA House on Tuesday morning. The Press Conference was moderated by the Team Media Officer Julius Mutebi.

    Uganda Cranes coach Milutin Sredojevic and Captain Emma Okwi during the pre-match press conference at FUFA House on Tuesday

    Uganda Cranes Head coach Milutin Sredojevic

    I have absolute trust, confidence and belief in our players. We have gone to the deepest attention to detail in regards to theoretical awareness, what their sources of vulnerability are, how we can score the opponent and close the points of danger.

    The mental strength and spirituality of the players after the days in camp are perfect. We are fully aware of what it takes in this group and since this match is at home, we are in a situation where we want to give it all. We want to be mentally strong using the never give up approach.

    Uganda Cranes coach Milutin Sredojevic during the pre-match press conference at FUFA House on Tuesday

    We want to get the backup of our supporters- who are player number twelve, something which played well for our opponents last weekend.

    We want to play a different ball game where player number twelve will play for us and we want to give them reason. We shall continue with the never give up attitude, and with good performance we shall get the result we want tomorrow.

    I need to say that we are having a challenge to recover from the long trip. However, we are fully aware that this match means a lot and there is a lot at stake. With everything, we shall recover well for tomorrow and give it all.

    Technically and tactically we are playing against a team with French football school and when you have that in mind, we need to have adequate approach that will practically push us to the direction of keeping our identity and showing that Kitende is a fortress where nobody can come and resist all our plans. Believing in players, believing in all your support, believing that we will get the performance and result from tomorrow’s game.

    Uganda Cranes in action against Algeria last Saturday

    Uganda Cranes Captain Emmanuel Okwi

    We look forward to the game against Niger on Wednesday. In fotball you never think about the past. You only think of what is before you and that is in the future. So we are looking forward to tomorrow to make sure we rectify our mistakes and get the best possible result which is a win.

    Uganda Cranes captain Emma Okwi during the pre-match press conference at FUFA House on Tuesday
    Uganda Cranes Team Media Julius Mutebi
  • FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme: Financial Management, Brand, communication and fans’ engagement discussed on day two

    FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme: Financial Management, Brand, communication and fans’ engagement discussed on day two

    The FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme entered day two with Uganda Premier League Clubs benefiting from the exercise.

    The project that started on Monday, 23rd May 2022 will run for five days with a number of focus areas addressed on particular days. The main reason is to help clubs improve on capacity building.

    Club officials having a group discussion at the FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme.

    On Tuesday, two important topics were discussed namely, Financial Management at clubs and how best clubs can communicate their brands better.

    All the 16 clubs playing in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League had representatives ranging from CEOs, finance managers, marketing and media officers among others.

    Club officials attentively watching a video on the screen.

    Pedro Correia lectured in the morning session that put emphasis on how best clubs can manage their finances.

    Pedro Correia lecturing during Tuesday’s session.

    In his opening remarks, the UEFA League Development Expert indicated finances are a key pillar in running clubs and no team can make any progress without clear financial management.

    “For any club to run, they must generate income but that revenue must as well be managed properly. Therefore, financial management is a critical aspect in football administration.” He said.

    Correia addressed aspects like Accountability, budgeting, Sources of revenue, strategic planning among others.

    Pius Bamwange, the CEO at Maroons FC shared an experience he has had at different clubs indicating not so many clubs in Uganda respect budgeting processes.

    Uganda Premier League CEO Bernard Bainamani, League Manager Paul Kabaikaramu (White T Shirt) and FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson having a chat.

    “I will be honest and share an experience with you here. Not so many teams appreciate financial management standards. From budgeting to planning and accountability.” Bamwanga confessed.

    Maroons FC CEO Pius Bamwange

    The afternoon session guided by Kenneth Macleod another UEFA League Development Expert centred around brand communication and fans’engagement.

    The emphasis was hinged on three key aspects that ranged from Brand development, Digital/Social media and content creation.

    On brand development, Macleod advised club officials to make their brands unique and appeal to their fans more.

    UEFA League Development Expert Kenneth Macleod.

    Day three (Wednesday, 25th May 2022) will have topics on Matchday operations and venue management plus income generation.

    FUFA-UEFA League Development Project Coordinator Phoebe Kutamba (left) and Project Manager Ben Mwesigwa.
    Soltilo Bright Stars technical director Ian Mutenda (L) and club media officer, Ronnie Lusulire.
    KCCA FC Finance Director, Michael Kirunga.
    Participants having a group discussion
  • FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme gets underway, to run for the next five days

    FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme gets underway, to run for the next five days

    The FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme officially started on Monday at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala.

    The workshop that will run for five days is aimed at improving capacity building among Uganda Premier League clubs with emphasis put on areas such as governance, competitions and operations.

    The programme was officially opened up by FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim who welcomed three officials from UEFA namely Eva Pasquier (UEFA Head of International Relations), Miranda De Araujo Pedro Correia and Kenneth Macleod (UEFA Professional League Development Expert).

    Pedro Correia (left) and Eva Pasquier (right) talking to FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

    Club Chairmen/Presidents, CEOs, Uganda Premier League Secretariat and officials from FUFA were also in attendance.

    A section of club officials having a group discussion.
    FUFA CEO, Edgar Watson attending the workshop.
    Uganda Premier League Manager, Paul Kabaikaramu.

    FUFA President indicated that such engagements help in improving domestic competitions thus aiding in fulfilling the Federation’s targets.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim making his opening remarks at the FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme.

    “It is another opportunity for us to continue with our vision of becoming the number one footballing nation in Africa on and off the pitch. To achieve this we must work within the set hat trick that talks about Professionalization of League Football, taking football to every homestead (mass football) and attaining sporting world-class excellence,” he said in his opening remarks.

    “Over the years, we have had several interventions to make our League better. For instance this journey started in 2010 with the Jinja Declaration Committee, then we have also tried to set standards through two tools that is FUFA Club Licensing and the FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda.” The President added.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim hands over a Uganda Cranes jersey to Eva Pasquier, UEFA Head of International Relations.
    Kenneth Macleod receives a Uganda Cranes jersey from FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
    Pedro Correia was all smiles as he received the official Uganda Cranes jersey.

    Eva Pasquier, the head of International Relations at UEFA insinuated that such programmes are aimed at assisting different Federations across the world especially with capacity building.

    Eva Pasquier, the UEFA Head of International Relations speaking on the opening day.

    “I’m happy to be in Uganda again after two years. Of course one would ask why UEFA is coming to Africa but our intention is to assist, share and exchange ideas because if we work together, it becomes easy to develop the game of football. Therefore, the five days in Uganda will be about generating ideas and putting them into practice.”

    In the opening session, Pedro Correia took the club administrators through different ownership modules, giving both the advantages and disadvantages in each.

    Pedro Correia during the opening session that looked at club ownership modules.
    Club officials having a group discussion on day one of the FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme.

    These included Private, Institutional and Membership ownership modules.

    “For any club to gain stability and growth, ownership must be clear. Every club must design an ideal structure that suits them.” He stated.

    He also tackled competions as another key area of focus, indicating different countries create suiting formats. Either home and away basis or knockout format etc.

    In the afternoon session, Macleod an expert on League Development dwelled on four aspects that included high performance, roles of a technical director, game modeling and creation of player pathways.

    FIFA League Development Programme Expert, Kenneth Macleod lecturing.

    The workshop will continue on Tuesday with finance and communication officers from each of the 16 clubs attending.

    Other topics will be discussed until Friday when the Programme will come to an end.

    Uganda Premier League CEO, Bernard Bainamani believes this workshop will help clubs to improve in capacity building.

    Uganda Premier League CEO, Bernard Bainamani

    “As Uganda Premier League, we are glad to host UEFA. This workshop fits into FUFA’s pentagon that looks at the game in five key areas that is Governance, Business, Sport, Hardware and People-ware. Basically, the FUFA-UEFA Assist League Development Programme is here to help us improve in capacity building.” He said.

    URA FC Acting CEO, Allan Munaaba
    Arua Hill SC Chairman Joel Aita
    KCCA FC Chairman Martin Sekagya.
    Blacks Power FC Chairperson Agnes Mugena.
    Soltilo Bright Stars FC Technical Director, Ian Mutenda.
    Gaddafi FC Chairman Edrine Ochieng.
  • 2021/22 StarTimes Uganda Premier League Champions Vipers SC crowned

    2021/22 StarTimes Uganda Premier League Champions Vipers SC crowned

    Vipers Sports Club were officially crowned Champions of the 2021/22 StarTimes Uganda Premier League season on Saturday at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

    The Venoms who had wrapped up the title with four games to play, got crowned in their final match of the season against Police FC.

    Vipers SC fans came in big numbers to witness the crowning moment.

    The glamorous event characterized by fan-fare and merry-making saw Vipers SC win 5-0 against already relegated Police with goals coming from Bobosi Byaruhanga (brace), Milton Karisa (brace) and Yunus Ssentamu.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo hands over the trophy to Vipers SC Captain Halid Lwaliwa.

    Vipers ended the season with 74 points to clinch their 5th league title. This is the highest point tally that they managed to collect in a single season.

    FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim who was in the company of 3rd FUFA Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Super League Limited Board Chairman, Fred Guy Kawuma handed the coveted trophy to the Venoms.

    From Left to Right: StarTimes Uganda Vice President, Aldrine Nsubuga, FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, Vipers SC Patron Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, FUFA 3rd Vice President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and FUFA Super League Limited Board Chairman Fred Guy Kawuma.

    Vipers SC Patron who is also a Honorary FUFA President Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa and StarTimes Uganda Vice President, Aldrine Nsubuga were present to witness the crowning moment.

    The game also presented a chance to Midfielder Tonny Mawejje to officially retire from football.

    The Police FC skipper was given a standing ovation from fans in the 6th minute of the game symbolizing his trade mark jersey number.

    The former Uganda Cranes player also received a plaque from the FUFA President to appreciate his selfless contribution to football over the years.

    Tonny Mawejje receives a plaque from FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.

    Match day 30 Results
    Vipers SC 5-0 Police FC
    KCCA FC 0-1 Wakiso Giants FC
    Arua Hill SC 1-0 Express FC
    UPDF FC 1-2 Onduparaka FC
    BUL FC 1-0 SC Villa
    Soltilo Bright Stars FC 2-0 Mbarara City FC
    Tooro United FC 0-7 URA FC
    Busoga United FC 1-2 Gaddafi FC

  • Capacity Building: FUFA to train and License 40 Instructors in specialised fields

    Capacity Building: FUFA to train and License 40 Instructors in specialised fields

    FUFA has organised a two day residential workshop for Training of Trainers (ToT) to be held from 14th-15th May 2022 at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru.

    The workshop, whose participants were asked to submit their applications for attendance is aimed at;

    • Equipping instructors with modern approach to course delivery
    • Understand and contribute into the philosophy of new FUFA Education curriculum
    • Understand the process and procedures involved in organising FUFA courses

    The Executive Secretary of the FUFA Football Development Unit Ronnie Kalema confirmed the latest news.

    L-R: Mujib Kasule, Ronnie Kalema and Ali Mwebe. The trio will be in Njeru for the Training of Trainers.

    ‘We shall have 40 participants taken through the latest training on presentation, preparation of content outline, course delivery and how to train new instructors in other regions and other FUFA Member Associations. At the end of the workshop, the Football Development Committee shall recommend the names to FUFA Licensing Committee for issuance of FUFA Instructors Licenses’ noted Kalema.

    ‘FUFA’s Vision is to be the number one football nation in Africa on and off the field. We shall issue a two year license to the Instructors and at the end of this period, each instructor will be required to undergo another refresher course to match the prevailing trends’ added Kalema.

    Ali Mwebe, the FUFA Football Development Director

    The FUFA Football development Director Ali Mwebe noted that the list has experienced participants who have been handling courses at both CAF and FIFA Levels.

    ‘The experienced personnel on the list will help us to share ideas from their specialized fields as we also pass on notes to them from equally important areas like coaching, administration and communication’ said Mwebe.

    The list of Participants invited for the Training of Trainers

    1Kebba Helon HarunaCoaching
    2Ben MwesigwaCoaching
    3Jimmy MweraCoaching
    4Kyambadde Stone NdibassaCoaching
    5Nantanda MajidahCoaching
    6Wanyana Christine NakibuukaCoaching
    7Mujib KasuleCoaching
    8Egesa Wesonga SamuelRefereeing
    9Waiswa Baligeya AliRefereeing
    10Adipo Constance Catherine WejuliRefereeing
    11Nsubuga Faisal AbubakerRefereeing
    12Ali TomusangeRefereeing
    13Turyomuriwe SamuelRefereeing
    14Kubingi Margaret Kebba FatiaRefereeing
    15Miiro Brian NsubugaRefereeing
    16Nkono Amin BbosaRefereeing
    17Batte DenisRefereeing
    18Deo MutabaziAdministration
    19Ariga RasoulAdministration
    20Dr. Aza TaibuAdministration
    21Ojok Geofrey OdurAdministration
    22Jjunju HamzahAdministration
    23Bainamani BernardAdministration
    24Lukambi DenisAdministration
    25Mpiima SamuelAdministration
    26Sajjabbi VincentAdministration
    27Yusuf AwuyeAdministration
    28Dr Apollo AhimbisibweMedical
    29Edmund KintuMedical
    30Dr. Mutyaba JosephNutrition
    31Ahmed HusseinCommunications
    32Rogers ByamukamaMarketing
    33Kaddu Badru MukasaFitness
    34Kalyango AliFitness
    35Kiwanuka DanielGoalkeeping
    36Magala JamesGoalkeeping
    37Asiimwe IsmailSports Science
    38Dixon Okello AdolSafety and Security
    39Sekabira AbdulSafety & Security
    40Sewanyana JamilSafety and Security

    MAIN PHOTO: Instructors after a training workshop at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru

  • FIFA President Congratulates Vipers SC for winning league title

    FIFA President Congratulates Vipers SC for winning league title

    The Champions elect of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Vipers SC have received a Congratulatory message from FIFA President Gianni Infantino for clinching their 5th title in the top flight.

    It is a norm from the leader of the world soccer governing body FIFA to deliver congratulatory messages around the globe to League champions through the FA Presidents.

    In a letter dated 6th May, 2022 and addressed to FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses reads in its entirety as below;

    Congratulations to Vipers SC

    Dear President,

    It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Vipers SC for having been crowned 2021/22 champions of Uganda!

    This title could not have been achieved without the entire team’s hard work, passion and dedication, and everyone at the club can be very proud.

    Please extend my congratulations to everybody involved in this great achievement.

    On behalf of the entire football community, I also take this opportunity to thank you and your Federation for your contribution to the development and prosperity of football in Uganda and in your region.

    I look forward to seeing you again soon. The letter is signed off by FIFA President.

    Vipers SC will be crowned officially and handed their trophy by FUFA on the last day of the League when they take on Police FC at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende on 21st May 2022.

  • CECAFA Women Championship 2022: Eight Teams beat deadline for confirmation to participate in Uganda

    CECAFA Women Championship 2022: Eight Teams beat deadline for confirmation to participate in Uganda

    Eight teams have confirmed participation in the forthcoming edition of the CECAFA Women’s Championship that is slated for later this month at the FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru in Uganda.

    The championship returns after a 2 year break imposed by the Covid 19 pandemic and it will be the second time that Uganda is hosting the regional Championship that will run from May 22nd to June 5th. It was last held in 2019 hosted by Tanzania in Dar es Salaam where Kenya emerged champions overcoming the hosts in a tense final played at the Chamazi Stadium.

    According to CECAFA Competitions Director Burundian Yussuf Mossi, eight teams have confirmed participation in the tournament. It will be the first Competition on the CECAFA football calendar 2022.

    The national teams that have confirmed to join hosts Uganda in the CECAFA Women’s Championship 2022 include; Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Rwanda and Zanzibar

    ‘We have received confirmation from eight teams that beat the registration deadline last week. We are now planning to have the draw soon’ revealed Mossi as reported on www.cafonline.com.

    ‘We are confident that this tournament will be very competitive and will also give our two representatives in the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Burundi and Uganda an opportunity to prepare well and get more match practice,” Mossi added.

    Defending Champions to miss out;

    Being one of the nations currently serving a FIFA suspension as a result of issues between the local FA and central government, the Kenya Harambe Starlets will not have an opportunity to defend the title they clinched after a 2-0 victory over Tanzania in 2019.

    ‘We have a comprehensive plan’ – CECAFA President

    CECAFA President Tanzanian Wallace Karia also made it clear that as a regional body they have planned well for the tournaments in the 2022 season.

    “We have decided to start with a women’s tournament since the Women’s AFCON will also take place in Morocco in July,” added Karia.

    Crested Cranes set to enter camp

    This week on Wednesday Crested Cranes Coach Lutalo George summoned a squad of 47 players amongst whom are 14 professionals to start preparations for the CECAFA championship which he intends to use to test and fine tune his charges ahead for the TotalEnergies Women’s AFCON in Morocco. The team will enter residential camp on Saturday May 7, 2022 at the FUFA technical Centre in Njeru.

    Lutalo will be looking to become the first coach to lead the Crested Cranes to the CECAFA glory, a trophy that has eluded the team over and over again. Uganda narrowly missed out on goal difference in the 2018 edition hosted by Rwanda when Tanzania beat them with a superior goal difference. In the 2019 edition Uganda finished 3rd, whereas managed 4th place in the 2016 edition hosted in Njeru.  

  • FUFA Big League Grand Finale set for Thursday, Winner to be Crowned the following day.

    FUFA Big League Grand Finale set for Thursday, Winner to be Crowned the following day.

    FUFA Confirms that the Winner of the 2021/2022 StarTimes FUFA Big League (SFBL) will be crowned the following day a few hours after the end of the fixtures on Thursday 28th April, 2022.

    The SFBL comes to a close tomorrow but any of the four teams Blacks Power FC, Kataka FC, Maroons FC and Kyetume FC can emerge winner of the 2021/2022 season depending on the outcome of the final matches in which they will be involved.

    The FUFA Communications Director Ahmed Hussein confirmed the latest developments.

    ‘The Crowning ceremony will be delayed until Friday 29th April 2022 for a team that will have emerged winner of the Competition. The venue that produces the new winner of this season on Thursday is where the crowning ceremony will be held the following day. The FUFA Competitions Department and Events Management Office are handling the details of the Grand Finale and will be communicated during the meetings they will hold on the eve of the matches’ noted Hussein.

    The winner of the 2021/2022 could be crowned from Mbarara, Lira or Mbale.

    The fixtures: Thursday 28th April, 2022

    Nyamityoora FC vs Maroons FC at Kakyeka Stadium, Mbarara

    Kataka FC vs Kyetume FC, Mbale Municipal Stadium, Mbale

    Blacks Power FC vs Luweero United FC, Akiibua Memorial Stadium, Lira.

    Calvary FC vs MYDA FC- Green Light Stadium, Arua

    Ndejje University FC vs Kitara FC-Arena of Visions, Ndejje

    The top three teams will be promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League while the bottom three drop to the Regional Leagues. 

  • Women Football: FIFA and FUFA ready for launch of League Development Project in Uganda

    Women Football: FIFA and FUFA ready for launch of League Development Project in Uganda

     Uganda’s top two women leagues are set to benefit from the latest FIFA supported programme dubbed the ‘FUFA League Development Project.’

    The project-an initiative by FUFA and presented to FIFA is aimed at developing women league football and other areas of the game in the Country.

    FUFA looked at the many women football support programmes FIFA had and selected the one designed for League Development.

    FUFA has already benefitted from another programme-the Club Licensing workshop for women football clubs in the FUFA Women Super League and Women Elite League. It was held last year at Jevine Hotel, in Lubaga.

    The two year League Development project will be launched in Uganda on 30th April 2022 in Mukono.

    FIFA women football experts Zimbabwean Violet Jubane and Thuba Sibanda will attend the launch to climax with a FUFA Women Super League match between UCU Lady Cardinals and Olila High School at the Uganda Christian University Grounds in Mukono.  

    Women’s football will benefit from the League Development Project to be launched on 30th April 2022.

    The FUFA Deputy CEO in charge of Football Decolas Kiiza is delighted about the latest development.

    ‘FUFA initiated the programme after looking at the various support programmes FIFA had. The support from FIFA is always geared towards women football development. It is such support that has helped women football grow in leaps and bounds in the country. The success story of women football in Uganda is heavily attributed to the deliberate programmes designed by both FIFA and FUFA for the girl child. We hope to benefit from yet another programme’ said Kiiza.

    Decolas Kiiza, Deputy CEO in charge of Football

    During the launch, FIFA will hand over the package officially to FUFA which will be received on the same day by the clubs.

    The Project will also target key areas aimed at improving women football in capacity building courses and technical expertise.

    The two leagues- FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League will be considered for this project’ noted Kiiza.

    The FUFA Women Football Development Officer Joan Namusisi will be the Project coordinator.

    Joan Namusisi-FUFA Women Football Development Officer

    The Objectives of the project

    • To increase the number of girls and women playing football.
    • To improve the quality and quantity of human resources involved in football.
    • To increase the visibility and profile of women football.
    • To extend equipment support to clubs in the leagues. 

    FIFA Women football Support to FUFA since 2013

    • FIFA Com-Unity Women Football in 2014-resolutions from this seminar led to the birth of various football activities including the start of the top flight women’s league
    • Live Your Goals aimed at giving the girl child a chance to play football  between the age of 6-16 years
    • Football Equipment support- football boots, shin guards, jerseys, balls, nets
    • Football Courses in refereeing, administration, coaching, Club Licensing
    • FIFA Covid Relief fund to Women football clubs and Member Associations  in Uganda
    In 2014, the FIFA Live Your Goals Proramme was launched to help young girls play football

  • Football to observe a Minute of Silence before kickoff of FUFA Competition matches in honour of fallen Speaker Oulanyah

    Football to observe a Minute of Silence before kickoff of FUFA Competition matches in honour of fallen Speaker Oulanyah

    FUFA continues to join the rest of the country in mourning the Rt. Hon. Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Jacob L’Okori Oulanyah who passed away on Sunday 20th March 2022 in Seattle, Washington, USA.

    The Rt. Honorable Speaker Oulanyah was a football loving person.

    He was a goalkeeper of the Parliamentary football team, served as Patron of the Acholi Province Drum Team and was the Chief Guest at the 2021 Airtel FUFA Awards in Munyonyo-Speke Resort when he unconditionally pledged his support to football in the Country. 

    The beautiful game will remember and miss him always.

    FUFA would like to inform all football clubs across Uganda to observe a minute of silence before kickoff of all FUFA match competitions (Women and Men) between Wednesday 6th and Sunday 10th April 2022 in memory of the fallen Speaker.

    FUFA Communication Director Ahmed Hussein confirmed that all matches at the Districts, through Regions, FUFA Big League, women Competitions, Futsal, Beach Soccer and the Uganda Premier League will observe the minute of silence for the period communicated.

    All clubs, referees, players, officials and other football stakeholders are requested to take this communication into action starting today. The players will wear black arm bands.

    FUFA continues to convey its heartfelt condolences to the family and the entire football fraternity on the loss of a gallant football supporter.

    May his Soul Rest in Peace

  • Kataka, Maroons & Proline record home wins | StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022

    Kataka, Maroons & Proline record home wins | StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022

    StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022 (Match Day 16): Sunday, March 13, 2022 Results

    Kataka 6-1 Kitara

    Maroons 3-1 Luweero United

    Proline 2-1 MYDA

    Blacks Power 0-0 Kyetume

    Calvary 0-0 Nyamityobora

    Kitara, Maroons and Proline Football Club recorded home victories on match day 16 of the StarTimes FUFA Big League on Sunday, March 2022.

    Kataka was biggest winner with a 6-1 humilitation of Kitara 6-1 at the Mbale Municipal Stadium, Mbale city.

    Raymond Derrick Onyai (2), Emmanuel “Messi” Mukisa, Swamadu Okuru, Noah Mudenyi and an own goal were the goals for Kataka.

    Elsewhere, Maroons defeated Luweero United 3-1 at the Prisons stadium in Luzira. Fred Amaku scored twice and Solomon Walusimbi netted the other.

    Luweero United’s goal came from defender Brian Nsubuga.

    At Lugogo, Proline edged visiting Malaba Youth Development Association (MYDA) 2-1

    Table leaders Blacks Power and Kyetume played to a goal-less draw at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira city as Calvary and Mbarara city based Nyamityobora played to a goal-less stalemate at the AbaBet Green Light Stadium in Arua city.

    Three clubs shall be promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.

  • Blacks Power maintain grip on summit,victories for Kyetume, Luweero United | StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022

    Blacks Power maintain grip on summit,victories for Kyetume, Luweero United | StarTimes FUFA Big League 2021-2022

    2021-2022 FUFA Big League (Match Day 15 Results):

    • Blacks Power 2-0 Maroons
    • Kyetume 1-0 Ndejje University
    • Kitara 2-2 Proline
    • Luweero United 2-1 Kataka
    • MYDA 2-0 Nyamityobora

    The StarTimes FUFA Big League match day 15 was played on Thursday, 10th March 2022.

    There were 12 goals scored in five matches; with the table leaders Blacks Power winning 2-0 over Maroons at the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira.

    Second placed Kyetume edged visiting Ndejje University 1-0. Sharif Saaka scored in the 21st minute for The Slaughters.

    Kitara and Proline played to a 2-all draw at Masindi Municipal Stadium, Luweero United overcame Kataka 2-1 and MYDA humbled visiting Nyamityobora 2-0 at the King George IV Memorial stadium in Tororo.

    Three clubs will be sportingly promoted to the StarTimes Uganda Premier League and three demoted to the respective regional leagues.

    Next Games (Sunday, 13th March 2022):

    • Maroons Vs Luweero United – Prisons stadium, Luzira
    • Blacks Power Vs Kyetume – Akii Bua Memorial Stadium, Lira city
    • Kataka Vs Kitara – Mbale Municipal Stadium, Mbale city
    • Proline Vs MYDA – MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo
    • Calvary Vs Nyamityobora – AbaBet Green Light Stadium, Arua city