The FUFA Drum 2022 Matchday Two, First Leg Saturday Results Bunyoro 0-0 Acholi Tooro 1-0 Rwenzori
FUFA Drum reigning Champions Acholi began their quest to retain the coveted title on Saturday away to Bunyoro.
In the game played at Masindi Stadium, the two teams played out to a goalless draw.
Goalkeeper Chrispus Kusiima collects the ball.
Both Bunyoro and Acholi opted for a cautious approach in the opening stages. The game thus offered few scoring opportunities for either side.
George Ssekaaba and Brian Aheebwa came close to opening the scores for Bunyoro in the first half but goalkeeper Derrick Ochan on both occasions was well stationed to save.
On the other, Brian Mato went through on goal but could not put the ball beyond goalkeeper Chrispus Kusiima.
The return leg comes next Saturday at Pece Stadium, Gulu where the winner on aggregate will progress to the group phase.
In the other game played on Saturday, Tooro edged neighbours Rwenzori 1-0 courtesy of David Opio’s goal.
Tooro Province Starting XI against Rwenzori Rwenzori Team
Full First Leg Results Bukedi 1-1 Kampala Busoga 1-2 Teso Bunyoro 0-0 Acholi West Nile 5-0 Karamoja Bugisu 3-0 Sebei Tooro 1-0 Rwenzori Lango 0-0 Ankole Kigezi 0-0 Buganda
The FUFA Drum 2022 Matchday Two Round of 16, First leg West Nile 5-0 Karamoja Kigezi 0-0 Buganda
West Nile put up a remarkable performance against Karamoja on Friday to send early signal in their quest for this year’s FUFA Drum tournament.
West Nile Province celebrate one of the goals.Oscar Mawa in action against Karamoja.
In the round of 16 game played at Greenlight Stadium, Arua, West Nile put five past hapless Karamoja thus all but sealing their spot to the group stage.
Defender Bright Vuni opened the floodgates, scoring the first goal as early as the fifth minute.
Gadaffi Wahab celebrates his goal with teammates.
The game would eventually turn out one-sided as the hosts went on rampage, scoring goal after goal.
Rashid Kawawa of West Nile controls the ball.
Midfielder Gadaffi Wahab doubled the lead in the 9th minute while Ibrahim Dada struck twice midway the opening stanza. Therefore, West Nile comfortably lead 4-0 at the break.
West Nile team that started against Karamoja.
The icing on the cake came from Fred Amaku who netted the fifth and final goal of the day deep into stoppage time.
The two teams will face off again on 14th August at Naitakwae Sports Complex, Moroto with the winner on aggregate advancing to the next stage.
Karamoja starting XI.
In the other game played on Friday, Kigezi and Buganda played out to a goalless draw at Kabale Municipal Stadium.
The final round of 16 games will be played on Saturday with Bunyoro hosting Acholi in Masindi while Tooro will host Rwenzori at Buhinga Stadium, Fort Portal.
If the opening matchday of this year’s FUFA Drum edition is anything to go by, then more thrilling moments should be expected.
The return of the coveted Championship that is themed around ‘Celebrating Ancestry’ after two years was treated to a great welcome last weekend in places like Butaleja, Mbale, Iganga and Lira where the games were played.
Fans at Akii Bua Stadium that watched Lango vs Ankole match
And as action continues this weekend, more anxiety, drama, thrilling action and passion should be expected.
The four fixtures lined up this weekend will witness reigning Champions Acholi start their title defence away to Bunyoro, inaugural Champions Buganda visit Kigezi, West Nile host Karamoja while Tooro face neighbours Rwenzori.
Acholi won the last edition staged in 2019.
Kigezi Province host the 2018 Champions Buganda at Kabale Stadium but the former will be without golden boy Bobosi Byaruhanga who is busy on club assignments at Vipers SC who travelled to Tanzania for preseason activities.
Bobosi Byaruhanga will be missed by Kigezi Province.
However, they will hope SC Villa’s Abdallah Salim and Maroons FC new boy David Ndihabwe to inspire them to a first leg advantage in front of their home fans in an early kick off encounter.
Buganda coached by Alex Isabirye will hope inspirational forward Viane Sekajugo carries his scoring boots to Kabale stadium.
It should be recalled that Kigezi shocked a star-studded Buganda 1-0 in the first edition at Masaka Recreation Ground before losing the reverse fixture in Kabale.
Richard Kasagga of Buganda (left) clears the ball as Kigezi’s Derrick Mudali closes in during the 2018 edition.
The final game on Friday will be at Green light Stadium as West Nile host Karamoja Province in Arua. The latter are still searching for their maiden win in the tournament.
West Nile team that played in the second edition.
The star studded West Nile team will enjoy the ambience of their ever animated home fans in order to gain advantage from the first leg.
Karamoja are also determined to break the losing streak against the West Nilers. In their ranks is KCCA’s Stefano Loro Mazengo who will be making his FUFA Drum debut while the hosts will miss the services of foreign based players Alfred Leku, Bayo Fahad, Mustafa Kizza, amongs others.
It will be the fifth time both Provinces face off in the FUFA Drum with previous meetings coming in the first and second editions. In all meetings, West Nile have emerged victorious expect once where a draw was recorded between the two sides.
On Saturday, first leg fixtures at the round of 16 will wind up with two outings.
In the first game of the day, Tooro will host Rwenzori at Buhinga Stadium in Fort Portal City.
Fans at Buhinga Stadium, Fort Portal home of Tooro Province
Rwenzori Province will miss the services of pacey winger Sadam Masereka who recently flew out of the country to USA while Tooro will be without midfielder Keziron Kizito who is out on club duty (Zesco) and Marvin Joseph Youngman who travelled with Vipers SC to Tanzania.
The other game will be played at Masindi Stadium as Bunyoro host defending champions Acholi.
Action between Acholi and Bunyoro in a previous game.
Bunyoro Province have prepared for this fixture by playing four friendly games and so is Acholi with their notable build up game coming against West Nile.
Bunyoro will miss the services of Frank Zaga Tumwesigye who is not in the team camp but will hope for inspiration in players like Jamir Nvule , Derrick Kiggundu, Brian Aheebwa, George Senkaaba, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, among others.
On the other hand, the visitors will put faith in experienced players Denis Okot Oola, Huud Mulikyi, Moses Okot, goal keeper Derrick Ochan, last edition’s leading scorer Tito Okello incase he is in the country, amongst others.
Goalkeeper Derrick Ochan (left) receives the man of the match accolade from FUFA Drum organizing Committee Chairman, Rogers Byamukama.
Acholi defeated Bunyoro home and away in the second edition in 2019.
The FUFA Drum tournament played across 16 provinces of the country returned bigger and better after a two-year absence due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
The long wait was treated to thrilling display with Bukedi hosting Kampala at Butaleja district headquarters on Saturday in the opening game that was later followed by other three games televised live on FUFA TV.
Below is a look at the players that were outstanding in the four games to take home the Man Of The Match Award, an honour that comes with a plaque and cash prize of USH 100,000 courtesy of Nile Special and FUFA.
Bukedi vs Kampala (Butaleja Ground).
Kampala came from a goal down to earn a vital point in the round of 16 first leg. Mathew Odongo broke the deadlock for the hosts in the 40th minute capitalising on a Fred Gwoto cross before silky youthful forward Travis Mutyaba leveled matters with 14 minutes to play.
Mutyaba went ahead to be named Man of the match.
Both teams will face off again in the return leg on 13th August at Wankulukuku stadium to determine who goes through to the quarter finals.
Lango vs Ankole (Akiibua stadium)
In a fully packed Akiibua stadium, the hosts under Uganda Cranes legend David Obua played out to a goaless draw against Bainomugisha Viali’s Ankole.
Both sides had clear chances to score but couldn’t. URA FC pacy winger Joachim Ojera had his goal ruled out in the dieing minutes of the match before he was named man of the match.
The two sides will square off against in three weeks at Kagongo grounds in Ibanda.
Bugisu vs Sebei (Mbale stadium)
As expected, the hosts made a light work of their neighbors in the first leg to gain advantage. Unlike the previous two editions, Sebei looked a much changed side as they played some interesting and eye catching football on the afternoon. They fell 3-0 thanks to KCCA FC midfielder Arafat Usama brace both from free kicks and substitute Steven Makumba strikes.
Usama went on the be named man of the match.
Sebei will host the return leg on Sunday 21st August at Sebei College, Kapchorwa.
Busoga 1-2 Teso (Ssaza ground, Iganga)
Teso defied odds to stern Busoga in front of their own backyard to garner maximum points on the road in a closely contested tie.
Ben Ocen drew first blood in the 10th minute silence the home crowd.
Jerome Kirya leveled matters for the hosts in the 66th before Arua Hill SC Ivan Eyam won it for Teso in the 80th to get the first leg advantage.
Ocen went on to win the man of the match accolade.
They will get back into action on 20th August at the Emokori grounds in Bukedea district to determine who storms the quarter finals.
The FUFA Drum Matchday One Saturday, 29th July 2022 Lango 0-0 Ankole
The encounter between Lango and Ankole produced no winner as the two provinces settled for a goalless draw.
In the game played on Saturday at Akii-Bua Stadium on the outskirts of Lira City, both teams opted for a cagey approach.
The game was watched by a mammoth crowd that did not move even when the heavens opened midway the second half.
Lira G-Boys arriving at Akii-Bua Stadium.
Charles Musiige of Ankole in action.
Lango Fans at Akii-Bua Stadium
Uganda Cranes legend David Obua was in the dug out for the home side while Ankole had Vialli Bainomugisha who was returning to a familiar territory having led Blacks Power to Uganda Premier League promotion on the same ground.
David Obua, head coach Lango Province.
Obua in his post-match remarks indicated there is room for improvement ahead of the return leg.
“The game was cagey but we were the better side. We created scoring opportunities and did not allow them any shot on target. I believe we van build on that and improve ahead of the return leg.” He said.
Joackim Ojera of Lango was named man of the match.
His counterpart Bainomugisha was delighted for picking a point on the road and has the belief his charges will win the next fixture.
“To come here and get a point is satisfying. This feels like a win and we want to build on this going into the return leg.”
Ankole will host Lango three weeks from now at Kagongo Ground in Ibanda district with the winner on aggregate advancing to the group stage.
In the other game played on Saturday, Kampala rallied from a goal down to earn a point against Bukedi.
Matthew Odongo had given Bukedi the lead in the first half but Kampala under the stewardship of coach Fred Kajjoba got the equalizer through Travis Mutyaba.
The FUFA Drum 2022 Matchday One Bukedi 1-1 Kampala
Kampala Province fought hard to earn a point against Bukedi in the first game of the 2022 FUFA Drum.
The tournament played across 16 provinces of the country returned bigger and better after a two-year lull due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
The long wait was treated to thrilling display with Bukedi hosting Kampala at Butaleja district headquarters on Saturday in a game televised live on FUFA TV.
Bukedi Province fans cheering on their team at Butaleja District Headquarters.
It should be noted all FUFA Drum games will be broadcast live on TV, an addition that is expected to widen the coverage of the coveted Championship that runs along the theme-line “Celebrating Our Ancestry.”
FUFA TV Outside Broadcasting Van.
Bukedi drew first blood with Mathew Odong finding the back of the net in the 40th minute. The forward was quick to tap home Fred Gwotwo’s cross.
However, Travis Mutyaba let Kampala off the hook, finding the equalizer, 14 minutes to time.
Travis Mutyaba celebrates after scoring.
The diminutive forward with quick feet went past Peter Magambo before sending a low drive at the near post.
Travis Mutyaba was named man of the match.
The two teams will face in the return leg on 13th August at Muteesa II Stadium with the winner on aggregate advancing to the group stage.
Martin Kizza of Kampala Province in action against Butaleja.
It should be noted that eight teams from this round will be pooled into two groups of four each, playing at a neutral venue.
Bukedi Province Starting XIKampala Province Starting XI
Matchday One Fixtures Saturday 30/07/2022 Lango Vs Ankole- Akii Bua stadium, Lira
Bukedi Vs Kampala- Booma Ground, Butaleja
Sunday 31/07/2022 Bugisu Vs Sebei – Mbale Stadium, Mbale
Busoga Vs Teso – Saaza Grounds , Iganga
The wait is finally over as the FUFA Drum returns this weekend with eight of the sixteen Province teams in action around the country. The 3rd edition will bring back many memories of action from the past two editions held in 2018 an 2019 before Covid-19 hit hard and let to inactivity for two years. Now, it is time for the football fraternity to enjoy the tournament under the theme ‘Celebrating Our Ancestry.
Matchday one will be filled with thought-provoking action especially in Lira at the Akii Bua stadium when Lango hosts Ankole on Saturday afternoon. It is a highly anticipated match.
The White Rhinos have brought back Uganda Cranes Legend David Obua as their head coach in anticipation of improving their performance this season while Ankole will rely on Vialli Beinomugisha in the dugout. Under Obua in the 2nd edition of the FUFA Drum, Lango were playing the best free flowing and attacking football in the tournament. They dared to take on any team. He is a darling in Lira. However, Beinomugisha also enjoy that love from the fans s he returns to the City that gave him a lot of joy by leading Blacks Power FC to the Uganda Premier League. He is on a different mission this time and his opposite number is David Obua.
Coach David Obua (with cap) talking to Lango Province players.
Lango Province is relying on their star players Moses Aliro, Joakim Ojera, Ivan Okello, Isaac Okello, Denis Omedi, Emmanuel Okech and Darius Ojok.
The team from the land of milk and honey have goalkeeper Denis Otim, Joseph Akandwanaho, Chrales Musiige, Ashraf Mugume among other players in a bid to go past Lango.
Coach Vialli Beinomugisha giving instructions to his charges during training at Kakyeka stadium
The other game n Saturday kick off at 2pm. Head coach Abbey Kikomeko is handling Bukedi who host Fred Kajoba’s Kampala Province at Booma Grounds in Butaleja.
Bukedi Province is looking forward to massive talent of Julius Poloto, John Revita all from KCCA FC , Fredson Gwoto of Bul FC and Ronald Musana.
Kampala have Martin Kizza, Gavin Kizito, Travis Mutyaba, Titus Ssematimba and Ibrahim Kasule.
On Sunday Godfrey ‘Toldo’ Awachango’s coached Bugisu Province hosts Sebei region at the Mbale Municipal Stadium while Busoga takes on Teso Province at the Saaza Grounds in Iganga.
Preparations for the forthcoming FUFA Drum are in high gear with both the Federation and the participating provinces drawing strategies ahead of the new edition.
With the tournament returning for the first time after a two-year hiatus, FUFA thought it wise to have a capacity building workshop for administrators across the 16 provinces.
Group photo of Province administrators with FUFA instructors.
It is upon this background that a three-day Football Administration and Management Course (FAMACO) which started on Monday at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru has been organized.
Ronnie Kalema, a FUFA Executive Committee member who is also in charge of the Football development docket believes this is a right step in attempting to spread professionalism.
FUFA Executive Committee member, Ronnie Kalema.
“After two years of no action due to COVID-19, we thought it wise to take officials through a number of management and governance aspects because this will help in the proper running of the tournament,” he said before adding, “We also want to show them that football is business and therefore if you organize your province well, rally fans to come in numbers, sponsors and partners will come on board.”
Kalema is one of the facilitators at the workshop. Others include FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza, FUFA Education Officer, Jackson Nyiimaand FUFA Football Development Director, Ali Mwebe.
FUFA Deputy CEO-Football, Decolas Kiiza.
Andrew Kaweesa, the Chairperson Buganda Football Association believes this was an important step made by FUFA to equip the province administrators with knowledge before kickoff.
“I must say we are learning a lot from here. If we all go and put into practice what is being taught, we will have a great tournament,” he said.
Jamal Ngoobi, the Chairman Bukedi Province also shares similar sentiments and hopes FUFA can such interventions frequently.
The first group of provinces that is currently in Njeru includes Teso, Karamoja, Bugisu, Bukedi, Sebei, Busoga, Buganda and Kampala.
The remaining 8 will also go through the same process for three days, starting Thursday.
The third edition of the FUFA Drum is expected to kickoff on Saturday, 30th July.
Acholi are the reigning Champions having won the 2019 edition.
The third edition of the FUFA Drum has come with exciting additions and key among them is the inclusion of the Women’s competition.
The development was confirmed by FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim during the launch of the 2022 edition.
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
“The FUFA Drum in its third edition will also have the Women’s version. This year, we shall make a shorter version and this will be played according to the 8 FUFA Regions converging in one venue. But in future we shall have the Women competing in their respective provinces of region.” He confirmed.
The draws were as well conducted for the inaugural edition and the Groups are as follows;
Group A
Western
Buganda
Northern
Eastern
Group B
West Nile
Kampala
North East
Kitara
The Playing Format
The inaugural edition will be played on the basis of the 8 FUFA Regions
The 8 Regions are divided into two groups
All games will be played at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru
The FUFA Drum is back after two years of no action due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The third edition was launched on Wednesday at FUFA Complex, Mengo.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim officially launched the return of the coted tournament and also conducted the draws alongside FUFA EXCO Member, Rogers Byamukama who is also the FUFA Drum Organizing Committee Chairman and John Paul Ssemakula, Nile Breweries Connections Manager.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim (navy blue suit) poses for a group photo with other officials at the launch of the 2022 FUFA Drum.
The FUFA President indicated it is important to have the tournament return because of the values attached to it.
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim speaking at the launch of the 3rd edition.
“It is an exciting moment that the FUFA Drum is back. Football speaks to the language of passion and we are proud of ancestry, culture and identity. This tournament gives us an opportunity to be proud of where we come from and the first two editions proved it,” he said before adding, “I remember when Buganda played Acholi at Pece Stadium and Ekitiibwa kya Buganda was played, it meant a lot in re-uniting the people.”
He also stated that the tournament comes with many values attached including boosting the economy, promoting sports tourism and giving people a sense of belonging among others.
FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim.
The President also confirmed that all FUFA Drum games this year will be broadcast live on FUFA TV.
“We are proud to announce that all the games this year will be telecast live on FUFA TV. This will definitely help us to increase on the visibility of the tournament and people living in the diaspora have the chance to watch their respective provinces in action.”
Byamukama equally was delighted for the return of the FUFA Drum indicating this is an opportunity to continue with the theme of celebrating ancestry and that explains why FUFA had to wait for full opening of the economy.
FUFA Drum Organizing Committee Chairman, Roger Byamukama.
“We are here to launch the third edition and definitely coming back after two years means something bigger and better. The hallmark of the FUFA Drum is passion and celebrating ancestry and thus we did not want to play without fans. Now that the economy is fully open, we expect to have the same adrenaline, enthusiasm and passion expressed in the previous editions.” He indicated.
John Paul Ssemakula, the Nile Breweries Connections Manager highlighted the importance of this tournament indicating it falls directly in line with their vision of culture.
Nile Breweries Connections Manager, John Paul Ssemakula speaking at the event.
Unlike the previous editions that that were played in groups, this year’s tournament will be played on a knockout basis.
Livingstone Rajan, a member of the FUFA Drum Organizing Committee.
The 2022 Format
Format shortened and will start with round of 16, played home and away
Winners on aggregate will advance to the quarterfinals where games will also be played on a home and away basis.
Owek. Florence Bagunywa Nkalubo was present at the launch.
The Quarterfinal winners shall then be pooled in one group and play at a central venue in a round robin format.
The top two after the round robin format will progress and play the final while the bottom two will play the third place playoff.
With the Covid-19 situation raging in the country during the final bend of the 2019/2020 season, FUFA mooted a plan to have its Competitions on Television (TV) to give fans a chance to watch the matches since they were not allowed back in the stadia.
It was also one of the ways of taking the game to the public via TV.
The broadcast started with the promotional playoffs of the Regional Leagues and the Star Times FUFA Big League.
These were produced by FUFA and broadcast on FUFA TV (Facebook Live).
Later on, the FUFA Women Competitions and Uganda Cup were also televised via UBC, the National Broadcaster.
Action between Ajax Queens and Amuria High School at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru
Commercial and Broadcast Rights:
In the past, FUFA was not able to sell the commercial rights of the FUFA Women Competitions and Regional Promotions but had sold the commercial rights of the Uganda Cup at 300m UGX (85,000 USD) to Stanbic Bank and 132m UGX (37,000 USD) to Kansai Plascon.
FUFA has not been able to sell the Broadcast (Media) rights of the FUFA Women Competitions, Regional Promotions and the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
In order to create more value for the commercial rights holders of the Uganda Cup thus Stanbic Bank and Plascon, FUFA undertook to pay the cost of production and also agree with a broadcaster to air the matches.
Vipers’ Jamil Kalisa with the ball against UPDF at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende during the Stanbic Uganda Cup match in one of the televised duelsShafik Bbosa captures the match proceedings on the main camera
Production of Matches
Production is the process of capturing the matches using Video Cameras and converting the captured video content into electric or electromagnetic or optic signal depending on the expected means of transmission.
The Signal is later transmitted normally via a telecom or satellite provider to the Broadcaster Network.
Production of a football match to be transmitted and aired live is a huge cost ranging from 30,000 USD for international feed standards to a local market price of about 5,000 USD for the current Ugandan Standards.
FUFA received a proposal by Satellite Plus Systems, a company that has been in trade with FUFA over the same business for the last about 10 years to produce 94 matches at a cost of about 1,100 USD per match.
FUFA was saving more than 75% from the local market rates for the same job.
FUFA accepted the offer and contracted Satellite Plus Systems to undertake the job.
FUFA Social media team on duty. Behind is the Satellite Media Plus Outdoor Broadcasting Van
UBC Television – FUFA Partnership:
In order to broadcast the signal produced by Satellite Plus Systems, FUFA agreed terms with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) Television to broadcast the FUFA Women Competitions Matches (56 matches) and Uganda Cup (25 matches).
National Broadcaster UBC TV has offered free airtime for the Stanbic Uganda Cup and FUFA Women football competitions with the hope of making future revenue.
There was no exchange of money from either party but a share of the revenues when eventually broadcast sponsors are found.
Inside the new HD UBC Television StudiosFUFA President Eng Moses Magogo (with microphone) addressing the media during a press conference as Stanbic Bank announced their sponsorship
Revenues:
So far, only Stanbic Bank has agreed to pay 80m UGX (22,800 USD) as a contribution to the cost of production which is about 362m UGX (103,000 USD).
There are currently over 10 prospective brands in negotiations with FUFA to be part of the Live Broadcast Sponsors of FUFA Competitions for next season.
The objective is to generate more revenues from the sale of Broadcast to cover the full costs of production, transmission, and TV airtime.
Whereas these are inelastic cost centres, the rest of the monies shall be for rights for the benefit of FUFA, Clubs, Referees, Coaches, and Players amongst others.
Hakim Matovu on Goal Angle camera 3Joyful Ugandans cheer the national team, Uganda Cranes. Fans are pertinent of a football matchFred “Maanso” Ssewankambo in charge of goal angle camera 1
Other Values of Football on Television:
Whereas raising value and hence more revenues is the main objective, FUFA wishes to achieve other objectives such as:
1-Extend viewership of the FUFA Competitions to Homesteads, Offices, Bars, Schools and all other places where masses of people collect;
2-Build the brands of FUFA, Competitions, Clubs, Coaches, Players and Referees;
3-Use the media content for;
a) Performance Analysis of the players and referees;
b) Archiving;
c) Second opinion on matters missed by the match officials;
d) Disciplinary Actions.
Action between Lango Queens and Wakiso Hills at the FUFA Technical Center, Njeru during the FUFA Women Elite League
The capturing moment of live images during a football match
FUFA Procurement Processes:
The FUFA Executive Committee, as mandated, enacted the FUFA Procurement and Disposal Manual and FUFA has also hired a fulltime procurement officer in the names of Isaac Natukunda.
In the process of procuring Satellite Plus Systems for the production of the 94 matches, all FUFA procurement processes were followed.
Also, to note, from the documents at the disposal of FUFA received as part of due diligence, Hon. Eng. Magogo Moses Hassim (the FUFA President) is not one of the owners of the Company neither was he involved in the process of its procurement.
FUFA has issued Circular number 1136 directing all clubs not to admit fans to the stadiums until further notice.
The communication signed off by the FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza was issued on Thursday 3rd June 2021.
The circular is addressed to FUFA Members, Special Interest Groups of FUFA and Stakeholders reads;
As you are all aware according to statistics from the Ministry of Health there is an upsurge in the number of COVID-19 cases as well as deaths in Uganda.
FUFA had earlier allowed up to 200 fans to watch FUFA organised and FUFA authorized competitions with strong adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This is no longer tenable in the current situation.
Therefore, in order to ensure the Health and Safety of players, Technical staff and all stakeholders, all matches shall be played without spectators or fans until further notice.
As we wind up the 1st Division, 2nd Division and the Uganda Cup there shall be no fans in the stadiums. Teams are further strongly encouraged to limit all other authorized personnel to the bear minimum. SOPs must be strictly observed and COVID-19 vaccination enhanced by football officials and players throughout the country.
The FUFA Executive has authorised the kickoff of the FUFA 2nd Division League (StarTimes FUFA Big League), FUFA Women Super League, FUFA Women Elite League, the Stanbic Uganda Cup and The FUFA Drum.
The communication is in a circular No. 1128 dated, FUFA/C/01/21 and signed off by the FUFA Deputy CEO- Football Kiiza Decolas Hantali.
The circular reads;
In compliance with the Government of Uganda directives and guidelines on COVID-19 pandemic, the CAF & FIFA COVID-19 protocols, and the FUFA COVID-19 Regulations, FUFA will issue comprehensive guidelines to be adhered to by the respective competitions entities to safeguard the health of all the stakeholders involved.
The FUFA Competitions Directorate and the FUFA Drum Committee will soon release the schedule of events and formats to be followed during the respective Competitions.
FUFA wishes to call upon all stakeholders to understand the sporting spirit behind the delayed kick-off of these competitions and appreciate any format changes that may be suggested in this regard.
Meanwhile the FUFA Executive will guide on other competitions as the Covid 19 situation improves.
Talent searching across the country and clubs having a better hunting ground of players for their teams was the main objective of coming up with FUFA Drum tournament in 2018 and without a doubt it’s yielding juicy fruits with players unknown before emerging at a promising rate.
The latest being Rwenzori Province hard tackling defender Karim Ramathan who earlier this week completed a career stepping stone move to Uganda Premier League side Mbarara City FC on a four-year contract.
Karim Ramathan
Much as the player has always been optimistic of playing in Uganda’s most prestigious football league, he has attributed the milestone to the FUFA drum tournament that he say it helped him and many others to be exposed to many influential football stakeholders thus vital in his move to the Ankole Lions.
“I feel happy that I am going to play in the super league at Mbarara City but all this couldn’t be achieved if it wasn’t the FUFA Drum tournament were I played for my province, Rwenzori.Despite not going past the group stages in the the two editions, we played well as a team, got exposed to many vital football stakeholders a big reason behind joining Mbarara and I want to work hard to ensure I move further ” he disclosed to www.fufa.co.ug.
With a man of the match accolade
Rwenzori Province team (Karim Ramathan is on the extreme right)
Karim began his career at Sun City FC before joining New Villa in 2010. He is blessed with game reading, hard tackling, aerial prowess, amongst others.
The FUFA Drum tournament that began in 2018 has brought up a number of players like Kyetume FC towering defender Benon Tahomera, Bul FC Gwoto Fredson, among others.
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Bronson Nsubuga (Lango)
Best Goalkeeper: Derrick Emukule (Bukedi Province)
Top Scorer: Tito Okello (Acholi Province) – 8 Goals
FUFA DRUM Best XI: Derrick Emukule (G.K, Bukedi), Denis Okota Oola (Bukedi), Rashid Okocha (West Nile), Benjamin Nyakoojo (Tooro), Slyvester Okello (Acholi), Hudu Mulikyi (Acholi), Bronson Nsubuga (Lango), Fredson Gwot (Bukedi), Tito Okello (Acholi), Ibra Nsimbe (Bukedi), Felix Okot (Acholi)
Best Coach: Geofrey Akena (Acholi)
Acholi Province Team players with the FUFA DRUM Trophy
Acholi Province are the champions of the 2019 FUFA Drum Tournament (powered by Eagle Poa).
The land mark feat was achieved on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at the new Akii Bua Stadium in Lira before hundreds of fans.
Acholi won the game 5-3 in the post match penalty shoot out following a goal-less draw in normal time.
Tito Okello, Alfred Onek, Richardson Asaba, Moses Okot and skipper Oola all scored the kicks from the penalty spot for Acholi.
Disan Galiwango, Frank Kalanda and David “Colgate” Owori netted for Bukedi but Aaron Okoth was denied by Acholi goalkeeper Derrick Ochan.
Tito Okello was named the man of the match, taking home Shs 100,000 and a plaque.
Acholi took home Shs 32M as the total prize money. Bukedi took Shs 15M.
Tito Okello with the Man of the Match Award
Some of the players on the FUFA DRUM XI
Individual winners:
Lango’s Bronson Nsubuga was named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament.
Tito Okello of Acholi finished with 8 goals to take the top scorers’ accolade.
Bukedi’s goalkeeper Derrick Emukule was named best goalkeeper of the tournament that kicked off on 30th March 2019.
Isaac Otto battles Benon Tahomera
FUFA DRUM Best XI:
The FUFA DRUM best eleven had goalkeeper Derrick Emukule (G.K, Bukedi), Denis Okota Oola (Bukedi), Rashid Okocha (West Nile), Benjamin Nyakoojo (Tooro), Slyvester Okello (Acholi), Hudu Mulikyi (Acholi), Bronson Nsubuga (Lango), Fredson Gwot (Bukedi), Tito Okello (Acholi), Ibra Nsimbe (Bukedi) and Felix Okot (Acholi).
The best coach is Geofrey Akena of champions Acholi Province.
Ag. FUFA President Justus Mugisha, flanked by other FUFA officials officially handed over the medals, prizes and trophies to the outstanding players and officials.
The theme of the tournament “Celebrating our Ancestry”.
Acholi Province Team sing the national anthem prior to kick off
Team Line Ups:
Acholi XI: Derrick Ochan (G), Denis Okot Oola, Silvester Okello, Walter Ochora, Ronald Owing Ogenga, Felix Okot, Moses Okot (55’ Alfred Onek), Fred Agandu (Richardson Asaba), Hudu Mulikyi (85’ Norman Ojik), Isaac Otto, Tito Okello
Subs Not Used: Emmanuel Rubangakene (G.K), Stephen Junior Akena, Francis Onekalit, Andrew Kidega, Derrick Ocen, James Otim
Team Officials:
Coach: Geofrey Akena
Assistant Coach: Walter Ocaga
Assistant Coach: Raymond Komakech
Team Manager: Ceaser Otto
Goalkeeping Coach: Moses “Ugoboss” Oloya
Team Doctor: Robert Onekalit
Bukedi XI
Bukedi XI:Derrick Emukule (G.K), Joseph Othieno, Yeseri Waibi, Benon Tahomera, Edward Kabona, Ibrahim Pengere, Paul Dumba, David Owori, Ibra Nsimbe (80’Frank Kalanda), Fredson Gwoto (85’ Stephen Okello), Iddi Babu (40’ Disan Galiwango)
Subs Not Used: Patrick Wafula (G.K), Cosia Waiswa, Isaac Kisujju, Andrew Kiwanuka
Head Coach: Abbey Bogere Kikomeko
Match officials with the Acholi and Bukedi captains prior to kick off of the final
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Rajab Bakasambe (Buganda Region)
Assistant Referee 1: Hakim Mulindwa (Kampala Region)
2019 FUFA DRUM Tournament (*Powered by Eagle Poa):
Final: Tuesday, 10th December
Acholi Vs Bukedi
*At Akii Bua Stadium, Lira (Kick-off:4 PM)
There match officials for the 2019 FUFA Drum final between Acholi and Bukedi provinces have been confirmed by the FUFA Referees department.
Rajab Bakasambe is the center referee. He will be assisted by Hakim Mulindwa and Emmanuel Okudra as the first and second assistant referees respectively.
Deogratious Opio is the fourth official. Newly promoted FIFA Assistant Referee Docus Athuhaire shall be the reserve assistant referee.
Amin Bbosa Nkono is the match commissioner.
FUFA Drum local organizing committee chairman Rogers Byamukama and FUFA Competitions Director Hajjat Aisha Nalule are the two match commissioners.
The final will take place at the new Akii Bua Stadium in Lira with the winner bagging Shs 32M. The losing finalists shall take home Shs 15M.
The FUFA Drum theme is “Celebrating Our Ancestry”.
The tournament is proudly sponsored by Eagle Poa beer, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and National Insurance Corporation (NIC).
Buganda is the reigning champion.
Match Officials:
Center Referee: Rajab Bakasambe (Buganda Region)
Assistant Referee 1: Hakim Mulindwa (Kampala Region)
