Category: Women

FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
Fourth Round, First Leg
Uganda vs Ghana
St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende
Saturday, 22nd January 2022

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi and skipper Fauzia Najjemba have expressed readiness ahead of Saturday’s encounter against Ghana.

The duo indicated the team has prepared adequately during Friday’s press briefing held at FUFA House, Mengo.

The gaffer asserts his charges have enough time in camp and the players are physically and mentally ready to face Ghana.

“We have adequately prepared for the game against Ghana and all players are geared towards our target which is winning,” he stated.

Kiyingi is unfazed by the threat that Ghana pose and indicates he has done his part of making sure his troops are ready.

“We respect Ghana because they have the pedigree. They have played at the World Cup before but my role is to prepare the players which we have done. It is what we offer at the pitch that matters not the history.”

Captain Najjemba is aware of Ghana’s abilities but she insists they are ready for the task ahead of them.

“Ghana will not be an easy opponent and it will not be an easy game but we are ready as players for the challenge. The coaches have given us the best preparations and all we have to do is execute the tactics.”

The forward lauded FUFA President, Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim for allowing fans to come and watch the game and states this will even motivate them further.

“I want to thank FUFA President for allowing the fans back into the stadium. This gives us more confidence and welcome them to Kitende on Saturday to come and rally behind us.”

The winner between Uganda and Ghana on aggregate will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying hurdle.

FIFA U20 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Uganda Vs Ghana

St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

Saturday 22/01/2022

Time: 4 PM

Entry: Free to 1,000 fans only

The FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo has granted an opportunity to one thousand Ugandan football fans to watch the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier between Uganda and Ghana for Free.

The first leg of the fourth round of the World Cup Qualifiers is slated for this Saturday at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The interested fans will log on to https://ticket.fufa.co.ug to fill in the required details for an electronic ticket which they will print and present at the gate on matchday to access the stadium.

It should be noted that this operates on a first come first serve and the lucky 1,000 fans will be only ones captured by the electronic system and once the number is realized, the system will close automatically.

The deadline for applying is Friday 21st January 2022 at midnight.

Athletes world over are almost cut from the same cloth. Majority share a common storyline of coming from poor backgrounds but eventually turn around fortunes with their talents. Malaysian author and Inspirational speaker, Vishen Lakhiani once said, “Epic things start with small humble steps. Pay respect to your beginnings. And if you’re just starting out, know that it’s OK to be sucky. To be small, to be messy and chaotic. Just make sure to never ever stop dreaming.”

For Uganda U20 Women’s National Football Team forward, Hadijah Nandago, the journey has not been smooth and had to break several barriers to reach the level she is at currently. At just 16, the little crafty player has turned out to be a key figure on the team and as Uganda sets sights at featuring at this year’s FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica, one of the key players to look at is Nandago.

But who is Hadija Nandago?

Born to Abdallah Kitengejja and Mariam Namakula on 15th February 2005, in Lungujja (Zone8) Rubaga division, a suburb of Kampala Nandago is a Senior Five student at Kawempe Muslim SS where she also plays for Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC in the FUFA Women Super League.

Picking interest in football

Like any footballer, the interest to play football comes at a tender age either through personal effort or support from the people around. Nandago developed the desire to play the beautiful game in Primary Four at Mirembe Infant Primary School in Nateete.

“We lived near a small pitch and I used to see people playing football especially in the evening and I started to pick interest. Sometimes mum would send me to the shop but I would first go to the pitch and try playing with the boys in my age bracket and I was the only girl,” Nandago reminisces.

At the pitch (Kasaawe Ka Young), coach Benard Ssenoga saw potential in Nandago and always invited her to come and train with the boys.

Resistance from the parents

Nandago recalls that there was a lot of resistance from her parents, especially from the father who always stopped her from playing football.

Coach Ssenoga, however, made personal effort and talked to Nandago’s mother, coaxing her into letting the little girl continue with football, a thing she would later accept but without the knowledge of the father who had maintained his ground.

“The coach supported me by buying soccer boots and jerseys and also managed to convince my mother to allow me to continue with my talent. He would pick me at home and take me to the pitch to play.” she recalls.

Up to 2017, Nandago’s father had no clue that her daughter was still playing football and the mother always rendered a protective hand.

“There were a lot of challenges in the beginning and up to about 2017, my father had not bought into the idea of a girl playing football. But the biggest challenge was going to football camps because he would not allow me to leave home and mum always had to lie that I was going to visit my elder sisters.”

Whereas they got away in some occasions, the father got to know about the schemes and was very bitter both to the player and the mother.

How then did the father have change of heart?

After completing her Primary Leaving Examinations in 2016, coach Ssenoga talked to Nandago’s mother about the possibility of her daughter earning a scholarship.

“The coach took me for trials at Rines Secondary School and they were impressed. My mother was really excited that I was going to study at no cost. It was there that I studied my Senior One.” Nandago states.

However, because of limited playing time, the player sought for change of school and moved to Pride College, Mpigi for her Senior Two. It is from here that Kawempe Muslim SS saw her thus eventually getting closer to realizing her dream.

“I remember there was Airtel Rising Stars in 2018 and we played against Kawempe Muslim. I think my performance was good and coach Ayub Khalifa approached me after the game and that is how I eventually moved to Kawempe Muslim.”

“This was the first time I saw my dad happy. When I told him I was joining Kawempe Muslim, he was extremely delighted and even started talking to coach Benard Ssenoga because, in the past, there was a big rift between the two. My father always wanted me to go to a Muslim School and Kawempe is one of the best in Uganda.” Says a teary Nandago.

Making her mark at Kawempe Muslim

Nandago states that it was not easy to break through at Kawempe Muslim given the number of immensely talented players.

“I was extremely nervous at the start because Kawempe Muslim had over 50 players. I could not make it to the Senior Team and therefore, I started in Team B. We played the Kampala Regional League and this exposed me to competitive football. I eventually finished both as the top scorer and MVP that season.”

She would then get promoted to the senior school team but playing time was still limited and she would only make the bench.

At the start of the 2019/20 FUFA Women Elite League, Nandago and several other young players were loaned out to Isra Soccer Academy where she performed well, helping the team to get promoted to the FUFA Women Super League.

She would return to her parent club (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC) at the start of the new season (2021) that was played at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru where they got eliminated at the semifinal stage.

National Team Call

In 2019, FUFA confirmed that Uganda would feature in the 2020 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers and consequently, Ayub Khalifa was appointed the head coach.

With Airtel Rising Stars, being the bedrock for many youngsters, the tournament held in Kampala that year offered a good hunting ground for the National Team coaches.

Nandago was part of the team that represented Kampala Region and was one of the players summoned on the provisional squad to go and camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru

“The first game, I did not start and that got me disappointed. The second game, I came on as a substitute in the final ten minutes and I made an assist. The final group game was against West Nile region, this time I started and thanks be to Allah we won 3-0 and I scored all the three goals.”

“After the game, coach Ayub together with coach Hadijah Namuyanja came and asked for my details. This really excited me because at the end of the tournament, they read out 27 players and my name came last. I called my mum and told her I had been summoned to play for Uganda and she was equally excited and prayed for me.”

Nadago recalls that at the time of going to the camp, her dad was not at home and heard her name being read on radio.

“At that time, my dad was not at home but he always listens to radio and when the team was summoned, he heard my name announced among the players that were going to represent Uganda. He was happy and called mummy.”

Making final squad to Mauritius

Uganda was invited to the 2019 COSAFA U17 Girls’ Championship and this was supposed to be a precursor for the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Nandago recalls there were tense moments in camp, given the fact that the squad had to be trimmed to confirm the final list that was going to travel to Mauritius.

“It was really tense and was always praying to make the final team. The squad was supposed to be comprised of 20 players and indeed my name came last. I had never travelled out of the country and more so by plane. I requested coach Ayub for a phone to call my mum and told her I was going to travel. I told her to watch TV and indeed she was glued to the screen. When she saw my name, she was extremely happy and proud of me.”

First game at COSAFA

“I was not a starter back then and would only come on as a substitute. In our first game against Zambia, the coach brought me on in added time, with one minute left on the clock. Unfortunately, I did not touch the ball and at fulltime, I cried. My teammates made fun of me.”

In the second game, Uganda played hosts Mauritius and Nandago this time played more minutes, coming on in the final ten minutes. Uganda would eventually go on to lift the trophy.

Nandago indicates that because she did not get enough playing time, she made personal efforts to get better and improve.

After COSAFA U17 Girls’ Championship, the focus was shifted to CECAFA U17 Girls’ Championship that Uganda also won.

“I was still coming off the bench but my mark came in the game against Djibouti that we won 9-0. I came on as a substitute and scored twice. This was my first time to score for the National team and I was really happy. This eventually gave me the confidence going forward.” She stated.

To win the trophy, Uganda had to pick a point off Kenya in the final game and Nandago recounts that this time, she was named on the starting team.

“After last training, the coach named the team that was going to start against Kenya and I was surprised to hear my name read out. At first, I feared but in the same breath, I was happy that I was going to make my first start.” She indicated.

FIFA U17 Women World Cup Qualifiers

Uganda played against Ethiopia at the first stage and Nandago was on the starting team. This time, her parents were in attendance at Lugogo.

“When we walked out of the dressing room, the first people I saw in the crowd were my parents and my sisters. I was extremely happy that they were seeing their daughter representing the country and doing something they had initially denied me the chance.”

“I scored and went into celebration. I saw my dad also up and happy but unfortunately, the goal was ruled for offside. I felt bad but thank God we eventually won.”

The team would go on to eliminate Ethiopia, Tanzania and were supposed to play Cameroon in the final qualifying phase only for the tournament to be cancelled due to COVID-19.

Graduating to U20 Women’s National Team

When the opportunity for U17 Squad fell flat, Uganda looked at the next door that opened and that was the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

When the team to prepare for Kenya was summoned, the majority of the team that had featured at U17 was promoted, Nandago inclusive.

The team is still in contention for a slot at this year’s edition in Costa Rica having eliminated Kenya and South Africa and now preparing to face Ghana at the penultimate qualifying round.

Shinning bright at CECAFA U20 Women’s Championship

Nandago took the tournament by storm, scoring five goals in as many games. In the five games that Uganda played, Nandago would score the opening goal in four games.

“It really gave me the belief that I can score. At the start, I asked Allah for six goals and in the end I scored five which I really appreciate. I’m really happy for the performance I had on a personal level.” She noted.

Given her performance, Nandago was named among the Airtel FUFA Best XI of 2021.

She scored the solitary goal as Uganda eliminated South Africa 1-0 on aggregate and was also named the best footballer in the month of December 2021 by Real Star Awards.

Future Ambitions

Nandago believes football can turn around fortunes not only for her but the entire family as well and therefore, she wants to play professional football to earn off her talent.

“Football can turn around fortunes and I believe this can be the opportunity to change our family. I love my mum a lot and therefore, I want to make her happy because she supported me a lot even when there were challenges of me playing football. If I go for professional stints, then I will get money and make my family happy.” She indicates

Nandago at a glance

· Name: Hadijah Nandago

· Date of Birth: 15th, February 2005

· Place of Birth: Lungujja, Rubaga

· Father’s Name: Abdallah Kitengejja

· Mother’s Name: Mariam Namakula

· Schools Attended:

· Primary: Mpereza Primary School, Khalid Primary School, Mirembe Infant School (P.3-P.7)

· Secondary: Rines SS – Senior 1, Pride College – Senior 2 and Kawempe Muslim SS- S.3-Up to now.

Clubs – Isra Soccer Academy 2019/20 and Kawempe Muslim Ladies -2021 to date.

Sumaya Komuntale has made the left back position her own both on the Uganda U20 and Crested Cranes where she earned her debut last year.

At first sight, she give you an impression of a lazy person but Komuntale has no challenge roving the left flank and adds perfection from dead balls.

FUFA Communications Department had a Question and Answer session with the ‘ Princess of Tooro’ and below are the excerpt

Question: How do you feel being part of the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team?

Answer: I feel so happy and blessed to be part of this wining team. It has been hard work since I joined, right from the U17 National team two years ago. I’m so proud of it.

Question: You started out as a midfielder but you have since shifted to defence and now among the best left backs in the country. How did you manage to make the transition?

Answer: Yes of course, I started as a midfielder but now I enjoy playing as a left back. During the time we played at U17, I was the only left footed player on the team, the coach (Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi) decided to try using me as a left winger and he later ended up pushing me to the back. I had to accept and I adopted to it. I believed in myself and now I enjoy playing as a left back.

Question: Naturally, which position do you feel comfortable when playing?

Answer: Obviously, its left back, I enjoy the spaces on the flanks and taking crosses. I like crossing the ball because so many times I make assists from them.

Question: How Important was it to you being summoned to the Senior Team (Crested Cranes) for the first time and even went ahead to make a debut against Ethiopia?

Answer: I was so proud and excited. It motivated me a lot because I worked so hard to be on the final 18 team. There were very many left footed players on the team but I did my best during training. The coaches believed in me and picked me as a starter. It was a great experience playing with senior players on the team. I did my best and created the first goal against Ethiopia that Reticia Nabbosa scored.

Question: What experience did you gain from being part of the senior Team?

Answer: Playing against senior opponents is not easy at all. Ethiopia had very many experienced players that had confidence on the ball. It was a challenge to me to find a way how I could defend and win the ball from them. I learnt a lot from the two games we played. Now I know how to handle any opponent that comes my way.

Question: How do you manage to score goals from set pieces?

Answer: I give it time and passion, I practice set-pieces so many times. I believe in myself and I feel I have the talent to score even more than I do.

Question: How do you feel as defender having two goals in FIFA U20 World Cup Qualifiers?

Answer: I feel great, it’s a sign of honor to score for your country. Scoring is not that easy, it takes a lot of commitment, love and passion for the game. It’s hard to defender well and score in a match. I thank God for blessing me and do things that are not easy for defenders to do.

Question: How Important will it be to you and the Country if we qualify for U20 World Cup?

Answer: World Cup is a very big tournament, everyone has a dream to be there one day and to me it’s the same case. It’s a life changing tournament and I believe if we make it, my life and that of my teammates will never be the same.

Question: What are your ambitions in football?

Answer: I want to be one of the greatest left backs in the country and also play in biggest clubs in Europe.

FUFA has on Friday held a consultative meeting with clubs from the FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League to deliberate on a number of issues ahead of the new season that gets underway next month.

In the meeting that was hosted at the FUFA Complex, issues ranging from Club licensing, dates for kickoff of the new season and National team engagements were discussed.
A host of club officials from both Leagues were present and FUFA was also represented by 3rd Vice-President, Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and the FUFA Competitions Director, Aisha Nalule.

Nakiwala lauded the Clubs for their continued commitment towards Women’s Football, indicating the federation is willing to professionalize the domestic leagues to suit international standards.

“As FUFA, we really appreciate the efforts made by all clubs in promoting and developing Women’s football. There are consorted efforts to make sure the game is taken to another level and therefore, having formidable and competitive Women Leagues is one of our key areas of focus in this term.” She stated.

FUFA Competitions Director, Nalule indicated that for professionalism to be realized, Club Licensing standards must be fulfilled.

“FUFA Club Licensing is not a punishment to clubs but this is a tool to help our clubs turn professional. Some of the standards we are setting are for the good of the game. When we ask for good pitches, this only helps our players to perform well,” she asserted.

Some of the new regulations ahead of the new season include;

–          All green pitch for both FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League teams.

–          National IDs and Passports for all players in the FUFA Women Super League.

–          National IDs for all players in the FUFA Women Elite League.

–          Minors must have consent letters from parents/guardians.

Club officials however, highlighted the challenges in attaining National IDs indicating the process to process them is tedious.

Hon. Nakiwala promised to help the clubs in making the process faster both for the National IDs and Passports.

A draft fixture of the FUFA Women Super League was also released with the 2022/23 season slated to kickoff on 5th February 2022. However, the fixture is subjected to changes given the fact that some clubs are yet to fulfill the Club Licensing exercise.

In the same breath, the tentative kickoff date for the FUFA Women Elite League was set for 14th February 2022.
 
 
 
 

Forward Margaret Kunihira believes the Uganda U20 Women’s National team is in perfect shape ahead of the games against Ghana.

Uganda will face Ghana in the fourth round of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, with the first leg slated for 22nd January at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

Kunihira is confident that they have been able to work on their fitness levels and all the players are up to the best standards.

“We have been in camp for a week now and what I can say is everyone is committed towards the games against Ghana. The coaches have tried to work on our fitness since we entered camp and we are ready for the task ahead.” She said.

Kunihira who has two goals in this qualifying campaign is aware that Ghana has been to the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup before but that doesn’t faze her.

“We respect the fact that Ghana have been to the World Cup but doesn’t scare us at all. As players, we have the belief and confidence that we can overcome them.”

The winner between Uganda and Ghana will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying phase.

This year’s edition will be hosted in Costa Rica in August.

Not so many players are comfortable playing in different positions on pitch. Whereas majority specify on positions to play, for Uganda U20 Women’s National Team player Asia Nakibuuka, this does not matter given her versatility.

FUFA Communications Team had a question and answer session with the player to talk about how she manages to play comfortably in almost every department.

Question: First things first, how important is it to you to be part of the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team set up?

Answer: It helps me to improve on my performance because of the competition among many good defenders on the team. It has made me work harder so that I can become the best defender on the team.

Question: You almost play in every position on pitch. How do you manage to pull it off with relative ease?

Answer: Yes, of course, I play all positions because of my talent and experience in the game. I started playing many positions at a very early age. I like it a lot because I feel proud to always be able to replace or coverup positions that are affected by injured or missing players.

Questions: You recently played as a central midfielder for Crested Cranes (Senior Team). How was the experience of playing in that position and was it the first time for you?

Answer: Yes, it was my first time to play in central defence. I really gained a lot of experience right from COSAFA Championship and we managed to keep a clean sheet at home against Ethiopia in AWCON Qualifiers. It gave me confidence and I started believing in myself as a defender that I can play in that position perfectly.

Question: You started out as a forward, playing in the right wing, how easy or hard has been the transition for you to end up as a defender currently?

Answer: Very true, I started as a right winger, but when my coach (Ayub) realized that I can do some defensive work he decided to shift me to the right and left back positions. It wasn’t easy for me to adopt because by that time I felt so comfortable playing upfront. But with time, I started putting it in my mind and believed in it. It was indeed a blessing to adopt to that change because it is when I was summoned for national team duty and now it’s the position that I enjoy playing.

Question: Of all positions, where are you most comfortable playing?

Answer: Number five (central defence) it makes me feel comfortable when playing at the pitch. I always love to win the ball from opponents and it gives me time to concentrate on the flow of the game.

Question: How important will it be for you and the Country to qualify for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup?

Answer: So great, a life time opportunity that everyone dreams about. Qualifying to World Cup means a lot to me. It may change my career and make my dreams come true. It is would be a life changing opportunity for me and my teammates that is why we work hard as a team, we put in a lot of effort to stop every opponent that comes our way. If we qualify, our country will benefit a lot, lifting the flag in a world tournament is classic and an inspiration for the coming generations.

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team skipper Fauzia Najjemba is optimistic the team will be in good shape ahead of the encounters against Ghana.

With the first leg for the fourth round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers between Uganda and Ghana slated for 22nd January at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Najjemba believes they will be in perfect shape to face the West African nation.

“For the days we have trained, the girls are well motivated, we are in good mood and progressing in each and every training session we have had so far,” said the captain.

The forward asserts that the coaches are making sure they improve in each and every department so that they form a formidable side that will take on Ghana.

“We are hoping for the very best against Ghana. We want to keep improving as a team and in every department so that by the time we face Ghana, we are very good.”

With the ultimate target being qualification to the World Cup which will be Uganda’s first in it’s football history, Najjemba is aware of the weight behind the target but she remains confident that the team has ability to sail through.

“We believe in ourselves as players and I know we shall make it. Our target is to become the first Ugandan football team to play at the World Cup and everyone in camp is working towards achieving that.”

To reach this stage, Uganda eliminated Kenya and South Africa at the second and third round respectively.

The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Ghana will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying stage.

Midfielder Shamirah Nalugya is delighted to get back into the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team set up after successfully recovering from injury.

The creative midfielder was ruled out of the previous round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers where Uganda eliminated South Africa 1-0 on aggregate.

Nalugya who has sustained a shoulder injury indicates she now feels well and ready to impress as the team prepares to face Ghana.

“I feel proud and happy to get back to the team after recovering fully. I am now ready and committed to help the team progress and attain our target of qualifying to the World Cup,” she said.

The player is convinced and optimistic that Uganda has the ability to knock Ghana off the perch and advance to the next round.

“I have a lot of belief in this team. We are one family and work together to make sure we keep going. This has helped us in the previous rounds and I’m confident we shall overcome Ghana.” Nalugya explained.

Uganda will host Ghana in the first leg of the fourth round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers on 22nd January at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The two teams will then face off two weeks later in the return leg and the winner on aggregate will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying stage.

Left back Winnie Nakanwagi is full of joy and happiness after her dream became reality by earning a call to the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team that is preparing to face Ghana in the fourth round of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

The defender who features for Uganda Martyrs High School WFC in the FUFA Women Super League could not hide her delight about this important step in her career.

“I’m really excited about getting summoned to the National Team. It is every player’s dream to play for the National Team and this for me is a dream come true,” said a joyful Nakanwagi after her first training session with the team on Thursday morning.

The lanky roving full back indicates she will repay the coach’s faith by performing well in training to make the final team.

“I thank coach Ayub Khalifa for this opportunity but this calls for me to work hard and impress in training because that is the only way I can pay back his faith in me.” She stated.

Uganda will face Ghana in the first leg on 22nd January at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende and thereafter, the two nations will face off in a return leg two weeks later.

The winner on aggregate will then face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the fifth and final qualifying stage.

To reach this stage, Uganda eliminated South Africa 1-0 on aggregate.

Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Diana Natukunda (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Saida Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens FC.

Defenders
Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), , Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Winnie Nakanwagi (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Harima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC).

Midfielders
Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Phiona Nabulime (Devine Soccer Academy), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Zaituni Namaganda (Taggy High School FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC).

Forwards
Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Chrysomolia FC), Joweria Nagadya (Lady Doves FC), Kamuyati Naigaga (Taggy High School), Ronah Regina Nantege (She Corporate FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens FC)

Officials
Head Coach – Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
Assistant Coach- Oliver Mbekeka
Goalkeeping Coach- Mubarak Kiberu
Fitness Trainer – Arthur Kyesimira
Team coordinator – Joan Namusisi
Team Doctor – Mable Kabatalindwa
Kit and Equipment Manager- Cissy Nakiguba
Media Officer- Alex Kasirye

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team head coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi is confident the time he has now and the first game against Ghana is enough to prepare his troops.

The gaffer said so as the provisional squad of 28 players conducted their first training session at Lugogo Stadium on Thursday morning in preparation for the first leg against Ghana.

Uganda will host the West African Nation on 22nd January 2022 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende in the first leg of the fourth round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers with the return leg coming a fortnight later.

“We have today started our preparations for the matches against Ghana. The girls came back in good shape. I believe the time we have between now and the first game will be enough for us to prepare and get the results we want,” said the coach.

Uganda has had an incredible run in the qualifiers, first defeating Kenya 10-3 on aggregate in the third round before eliminating South Africa in the previous round.

The coach believes the team has good momentum going into games against Ghana and hopes that will enable them to sail through.
A provisional squad of 28 players were summoned to embark on preparations and the team is currently in residential camp at Cranes Paradise Hotel, Kisaasi.

The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Ghana will face either Ethiopia or Tanzania at the final qualifying phase to the coveted tournament that will be hosted in Costa Rica later this year.

Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Diana Natukunda (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Saida Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens FC.

Defenders
Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), , Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Winnie Nakanwagi (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Harima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC).

Midfielders
Shamirah Nalugya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Phiona Nabulime (Devine Soccer Academy), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC), Zaituni Namaganda (Taggy High School FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC).

Forwards
Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Juliet Nalukenge (Chrysomolia FC), Joweria Nagadya (Lady Doves FC), Kamuyati Naigaga (Taggy High School), Ronah Regina Nantege (She Corporate FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Lilian Mutuuzo (Kampala Queens FC)

Officials
Head Coach – Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
Assistant Coach- Oliver Mbekeka
Goalkeeping Coach- Mubarak Kiberu
Fitness Trainer – Arthur Kyesimira
Team coordinator – Joan Namusisi
Team Doctor – Mable Kabatalindwa
Kit and Equipment Manager- Cissy Nakiguba
Media Officer- Alex Kasirye

Dear Fellow Countrymen,

Dear Football people,

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Those here, following on the Live FUFA Media Platforms and those who will receive my communication from all the available live and recorded media channels, I must start by saying;

Glory be to the Almighty Allah for the gift of life for those who are still living and Glory be to the Almighty Allah for the gift of life of those football persons who departed. May the Almighty Allah judge their earthly works with mercy.

I am here to address the Nation on the state of the game of football in our motherland Uganda. I wish to enlist the achievements, the challenges and forecast into the future.

1) Governance & Administration

Governance

Governance is a basic pillar for the proper functioning of the institutions like FUFA and industries like Football.

We have continued to improve onto our governance systems to ensure that the management and regulation of the game is undertaken prudently.

The 97th FUFA General Assembly in Mbale was organised in August 2021 and the members of FUFA elected the FUFA President, consequently a new 4-year mandate for the Executive Committee of FUFA began.

FUFA is a strong advocate of the enactment of modern National Sports Law and we shall continue to give our best to ensure that a new favourable law is done.

In the last 2 years alone, FUFA has undergone 5 successful audits thus;

Two (2) annual Statutory Audits

Two (2) annual FIFA central audits

One (1) forensic audit by the Ministry of Finance (as an extension of the NCS)

It is the responsibility of FUFA to protect the game of football and we have since improved on the awareness campaign and the judicial systems that are now faster and fair.

I have heard some people claiming that FUFA is fining and sanctioning different entities looking for money. We have installed competent and independent judicial bodies, supported them with two (2) fulltime legal professionals. The cases that are causing fines and sanctions are in the rules.

Going forward, we will continue to undertake more corporate governance practices and ensure compliance by our 34 members, support the Sports Bill, support the permanent and continuous rules review commission, perform internal audit on areas where FUFA funds are sent.

Administration

We have continued to ensure that FUFA retains its Staff in the competitive employment market and we currently have 64 fulltime staff. We have recently added one lawyer (Sheeba Ampaire) in the legal department and one IT Manager Winfried Nakanjako. The recruitment of the Professional Leagues Manager is currently on.

We have setup a state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure to continue to automate many of the football functions as we serve the football community. Our ICT Section is now headed by Winfred Nakanjako and composed of 3 other professionals.

The FUFA Estate that has expanded to Lugazi, Njeru, Hoima, Kadiba and the FUFA Complex has been managed well and the FUFA fleet and other assets have been maintained well too

The UPL and the eight (8) SIGs have shared premises in Mengo and the SIGs now have a fulltime Staff managing their joint Secretariat.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Sam Mpiima and Frank Ankunzire to oversee the Governance and Administration Focus Area.

2) Football Development

The future of football is a function of the development activities being undertaken today. Football Development is part of the FUFA Mission thus;

‘Develop, Promote and Protect Football for all’

Capacity Building

We pride ourselves as FUFA in educating the entire Human Resource required for the game. Apart from the COVID-19 distractions, we have undertaken training of Referees, Coaches, Administrators, Journalists, and many other persons that support the game of football.

We intend to even do this better going forward so that our courses are properly outlined as to when they happen and how to apply for those interested.

The long vision is converting the FUFA Technical centre in Njeru into; The Uganda Professional Sports Institute that will offer long term training of graduates and technical person as a career training and we are currently seeking for a license by the National Council of Higher Education.

FUFA has identified 10 active coaches and recently retired players that will be given the opportunity to be trained from the best available trainers and institutions in the world in order to create a pool of professional coaches for the various national teams and professional clubs

International Capacity Building

1. Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe
2. Dr. Sekajugo
3. Mawanda Haruna
4. Edgar Watson
5. Humphrey Mandu
6. Sekabira Abdul Lukoya
7. Jamil Sewanyana
8. Okello Dixon
9. Mwebe Ali
10. Ahmed Hussein
11. Mike Letti
12. Yusuf Awuye
13. Musoke Esther
14. Leilah Nankya
15. Dick Okello
16. Others

Youth

When we started the FUFA Juniors League (FJL) in 2015 and Odilo (Primary Schools Championship) in 2019, we had a vision and this has come to deliver various success stories. Our various national youth teams have progressed from one age-category to the next and continued to perform well in international competitions for both the boys and girls.

Cases of doubting ages has been dealt with using the MRI testing before joining the FJL and the database of the various players as they develop

It is therefore not by accident that the men’s National Teams of U-15, U17 and U20 have registered such international performances including the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations and qualification to the U20 FIFA World Cup (That was not organised because of COVID-19)

We have taken the decision to expand the FJL from 16 UPL-based teams to 12-team leagues in each of the 8 regions of FUFA thus bringing the number of teams involved to 96 teams and players to 2880 players (from 400 players).

We are commencing on registering and categorizing the football academies, reinventing the Schools of Excellence Programmes and also starting the competition of the Elite National Post Primary Schools Football competition which will be by invitation.

The Football Development Curriculum will finally be introduced and compulsorily followed by all the FUFA Registered Football Academies.

Women

More than 50% of the population in Uganda is female. It is therefore paramount that we attract the women folk into the beautiful game as players, coaches, referees, administrators etc

We have done tremendously well in creating an environment for more women into the game. FUFA currently has 20 fulltime staff including Director and manager positions.

We have also changed our statutes to introduce more women in the FUFA General Assembly without expanding it beyond the 88 Delegates.

We have conducted Women Football Competitions and given the girl child an opportunity to enjoy the game of football.

The National Women Football Teams have done very well and this has been by design. The current U20 that is in the last 8 in Africa were the champions of U17 (COSAFA & CECAFA) and were only 180 matches away from the FIFA U17 Women World Cup when COVID-19 kicked in.

We will continue to invest in Women Football and the feedback internationally and locally we have received for airing the Women Football live on Television has just encouraged us to continue.

Futsal

We admitted the Futsal Association of Uganda (FAU) into the FUFA Family and FAU has done tremendously well in organizing exciting competitions. We intend to start the National FUTSAL team going forward.

Beach Soccer

The Sand Cranes played for the first time at the Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal this year finishing at the Semi-Finals (Came 6 minutes shy of qualifying to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup).

The Competitions of Beach Soccer Continue and Uganda Beach Soccer Association (UBSA) has equally done very well to organise the competitions. We intend to construct an international Beach Soccer facility.

Science & Technology

We intend to start the Science and Technology Section at FUFA . We intend to invest, introduce scientific and technological approach to football at the professional levels in Uganda.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Kalema Ronnie and Agnes Mugena to oversee the Football Development Focus Area

3) Football Competitions

Football Competitions are the face of the football organisation. The FA is judged by competitions and so are the clubs. This is where the external stakeholders get to experience and participate in the game of football prepared by the internal stakeholders.

1) Professional Leagues

Together with the UPL Board, Secretariat and the Clubs, we have organised the Uganda Premier League, FUFA Big League and the FUFA Women Super League.

We continue to strive to improve on the Governance, Sporting and Business approach to Professional Club Football

I commend the clubs, institutions and individuals that have committed their own resources to finance professional football. Professional Football is expensive and not sustainable if we don’t sell football to make the money to run it.

We have agreed at FUFA to create the Football Business Forum that will meet regularly to shape the professional football industry in terms of regulations, policies, programmes and advocacy for external stakeholders to financially support the game

Like earlier mentioned, we are in the process to recruit the Professional League Manager to undertake the FUFA functions in supporting the UPL and organizing the FBL and FWSL at strategic and operational levels.

We intend to revise and reload the FUFA Clubs Pro Agenda and the FUFA Club Licensing.

FUFA targets at least 50 Professional Football clubs that will be issued with a 2- or 3-year professional club certificate and we further intend to have at least 25 of these clubs as Community Owned-Clubs. This FUFA Community Clubs Programme will be launched soon.

2) Mass Competitions

We have had two (2) years without Mass Football Competitions at the Regions and in the districts. It is going to be tough to get back the 1000 Football Clubs we had in the country. However, we are more determined than ever to ensure that every boy and girl child in each homestead in this country has an opportunity to play football. We will soon role out this programme

We also intend to revise the rules governing the;

1. Status and Transfer of Players
2. Training Compensation
3. Scouting
4. Intermediaries

3) Refereeing

Refereeing is a key role in the development of the game

I must commend the referees and the persons making them for the thankless job they are doing. Yes, they are human like each one of us and therefore they make mistakes just like the administrators, coaches and players do. In a game of football many mistakes are made by administrators, players and coaches for the result to end the way it ends. Normally excuses are found in referees, I am very proud of certain decisions that have correctly been made by referees without the assistance of Technology in the games like Vipers SC vs. KCCA, SC Villa vs. KCCA this season.

Elsewhere technology is applied and referees are found to have been wrong in the first call.

Unfortunately, we shall not play the game of football without referees. Many times, a football team loses a game many days before the match and referees are just an excuse.

We will however continue to assess the performance of referees and apply different corrective measures where they do not interpret and apply the laws of the game. We will protect them against any form of unregulated attacks

‘There are TV matches we choose for central review and analysis.’ ‘Referees are called to give their second opinion’ affects the next matches.

Players, Coaches and Clubs have official channels to present their dissatisfaction with performance or match officials and FUFA will listen to them. Public complaints about referees before during and after the matches they officiate shall cause disciplinary action.

We intend to acquire Equipment and Technology and improve on the welfare of the referees. For example, as we speak, there are no outstanding dues to UPL and FBL referees. Zero balance.

We intend to further automate Competitions functions and create a match day centre.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi and Rogers Mulindwa to oversee the Football Competition Focus Area.

4) International Football Competitions

International football competition is the way national and club teams engage internationally and it is important for the development and opportunities for the players and coaches. This is where players may be rated and eventually bought for better leagues and clubs

National Teams

Qualification to continental tournaments

As a comparative, from 1978 to 2013 (Uganda qualified) for 5 continental finals in 35 years)

From 2013 to date (Uganda has qualified for 10 Continental finals in 8 years) including the World Cup for the first time that was not organised due to COVID-19

We have played 288 international matches since 2013 to date and matches in 2021 alone.

The Uganda Cranes is undergoing a transition and this happens to all football teams. The results may not be immediately what we want but it happens to all teams after a generation of players gives way which is just natural anyway. We thank all those players who have made this country smile in unison but we have a duty to create another group to even further the dreams of those before them.

Along the way we changed head coaches letting go of Jonathan McKinstry and bringing back Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic. Credit to FUFA that the previous coach has nothing outstanding with FUFA and we wish him well. It is not normally the case with many federations and clubs.

The U20 (Boys) and U20 (Girls) will pursue the dream to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

The CHAN Team will pursue qualifying for the next edition and do better to get out of the groups, AFCON 2023 (Cote Devoir) and AFCON 2025 (Guinea).

All blending and building up to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in US, Mexico and Canada as the ultimate

We will continue to enter all available international competitions for men, women, youth, beach soccer and futsal

Representative Teams

We continue to support our representative teams into international competitions. Have supported with the air tickets to Lady Doves, Express FC, URA FC and and previously Proline FC, Vipers SC and KCCA FC.

Congratulations Express FC for emerging CECAFA Kagame Club Cup Champions overthrowing KCCA FC who are the previous winners. It means Uganda is holding back-to-back CECAFA club competitions for the very first time.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Dr. Ahimbisibwe Apollo and Mr. Dan Obote to oversee the International Football Competitions Focus Area.

5) Finance

Everything that ought to be done requires financial resources. All the good ideas and plans come to nothing without money and this is the bitter truth. Some people have lazily branded FUFA and my person to be more interested in money than the sport. How contradictory! How do you run the programmes without resources?

All FUFA Revenues are managed centrally through processes of budgeting, recording, accounting, reporting and audit.

We have been able to undertake all the various support programmes because of the improved revenues from the annual turnover of about 600m in 2005 to about 4bn in 2013 and almost 40bn in 2019. This has since been affected by COVID-19 as our revenues have now dropped to about 25bn over 2021.

We continue to prudently manage the available resources through forecast, budget discipline and internal audit.

We have installed improved procurement processes and computerized our recording and reporting of financial transactions. We have full time experienced professionals managing the finance department.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Darius Mugoye and Mr. Ariga Rasoul to oversee the Finance Focus Area

6) Marketing, Events & CSR

Football activities require resources and most proven source of funds for football is commercialization of the rights of football. Marketing helps to create the brands, position them and sell them to get revenues. We have improved a lot in terms of brand building and revenue generation, the game is a bottomless pit that even requires more when you generate more.

We have maintained a good relationship with our sponsors. We thank Airtel for having been with us and fulfilled all their obligations to us despite the COVID-19 Challenges. We also thank Nile Breweries, BIDCO, NIC Holdings, Ecobank, Crown Beverages, StarTimes and Pilsner.

Merchandising (Jumia), our Uganda Cranes authentic replica jerseys are now sold online. This has eased the way our dear fans purchase the jerseys. We intend to improve in this area for better service delivery and brining on board more products.

In order to fully comply with the regulatory requirements and also to ensure proper governance setup, FUFA has incorporated a company called;

FUFA Media Services Ltd. The company will operate the;

1. 102.1 FUFA fm
2. FUFA TV
3. FUFA Online Commercial Media Channels ; The objective is to add value to the commercial rights and also generate revenues from the media rights of FUFA Competitions, Activities, Events and Programmes. This is also intended to create more value for the other sports disciplines

We have consistently and instantly delivered the FUFA Awards for the last 6 editions. We have offered

1. a brand-new SIMILAR car to the best Male and Female footballer of the year since 2015.
2. the logbooks to the winners in each of these editions.

Awards by nature are subjective opinions and many times they evoke emotions of supporters of winners and runners up.

We will continue with our professional organisation of events and engage in CSR activities.

7) Communications

Communication is very important to tell the story from our perspective. We have setup a vibrant communications department engaging the internal and external stakeholders using the various technology and means. We have acquired full time professionals.

Our digital numbers have gone beyond one million aggregate being the number one most followed sports brand in Uganda.

102.1 FUFA fm has been revamped and upgraded in studio setup and technology. It will give a better radio signal reception and wider coverage when this exercise is complete. This will go a long way in providing value for our listenership and advertisers. The 102.1 FUFA fm project was set up with bonus from the 2014 FIFA World Cup given by FIFA to Member Associations.  

FUAF TV –we are in advanced stages of setting up FUFA TV which will be a turning point in Ugandan Sports broadcasting. This will provide high quality sports content for sports audiences and a platform for value added partnerships for corporate and other sponsors. The TV will carry both Free to Air and Pay per view content with a wide variety of bouquets to meet the needs of the intended consumers. We expect to generate revenue to be ploughed back into the game of football for the good of all stakeholders.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Byamukama Rogers and Mr. Mulindwa Rogers to oversee the Marketing, Events, CSR and Communications Focus Area

8) Hardware (Infrastructure, Facilities and Logistics)

Infrastructure and Projects

Refurbishment of FUFA Headquarters

There has been a lot of work done. The FUFA Complex has been improved. The old building which was actually leaking at the time of renovation has been redone. We have refurbished the Old FUFA House and created more office space by adding another floor to create more office space. It is now a four storied building renamed the Football House.

Kadiba Project 

We have continued with construction works on the Kadiba Stadium Project. With expected FIFA funding coming through, we should be able to have a playable football ground soon and the rest of the facilities ready for use in due course.

The Future FUFA Stadium in Lugazi

The other FIFA funded project, the future 20,000 seater FUFA Stadium in Lugazi is yet to take off but preliminary work has been done. It is a project that should excite every Ugandan when we roll off.

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Mugisha Justus and Mr. Ankunzire Frank to oversee the Hardware Focus Area

9) Stakeholders and Innovations

Stakeholders (Internal and External stakeholders)

This game is for people, it is done for clubs, institutions and it is very important that we understand the role of every stakeholder but also take various innovations to ensure the game serves people. The Government plays a key role in providing a good environment to play football and supporting National teams with finances.

Insurance

As you are aware, we started medical insurance for all players in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League. As we speak, we have extended this to include players in the FUFA Women Super League. The objective is to cover all professional Leagues including the FUFA Big League but for now we are only working with the resource envelope available but in the near future, that will also be added.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

We have intentions to work with people with disabilities as one of our CSR starting next year because the game of football covers everyone. Therefore, where we have the opportunity to have a project to work on, we shall do so.

FUFA Foundation

We are starting the FUFA Foundation next year to ensure that our Corporate Social Responsibility activities are undertaken by the foundation.

FUFA SACCO

As we speak, the FUFA SACCO has grown to the tune of UGX 300M. These are contributions by different employees of FUFA and generated this money which is being lent out to Members. I would like to commend the management of this SACCO under the guidance of FUFA 2nd Vice President.

Social Security of active players

We need to find a way to address the issue of life after football by footballers. We shall have engagement with different stakeholders to see how this comes to reality and find solutions to this  challenge. 

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I have appointed Mr. Mugoye Darius and Mr. Ochom Richard to oversee the People ware (Stakeholders) focus Area.

Conclusion

Football has the biggest opportunity to make lasting changes. Football has the caliber of people required to make the necessary changes. With the current and former FA Presidents, Chairmen of UPL Clubs and Former GS as members of Parliament and Cabinet and the general goodwill exhibited by the decision makers of this country, it cannot be better than now.

We have acquired the necessary contacts football just dreamt of. We now sit on the table that takes decisions for this country

Football or generally sports has now demonstrated the socio-economic value addition to the country and it is the time long term challenges such

The Law

Infrastructure

The Funding

It is our Game, It is our Country.

FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
Third round, second leg
South Africa 0-0 Uganda
Uganda advances 1-0 on aggregate

Uganda U20 Women’s National Team has progressed to the fourth round of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers after eliminating South Africa on Friday.

The team under the stewardship of coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi put up a spirited performance to earn a good result and thus advance to the next round.

The game played at Dobsonsville Stadium in Johannesburg ended in a goalless draw, a result that helped Uganda to sail through.

The first leg played two weeks ago at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende had ended 1-0 in favour of Uganda courtesy of Hadijah Nandago’s goal.

Therefore, Uganda will meet either Ghana or Zambia at the next stage which is the second last qualifying phase.

Coach Kiyingi was full praise of his charges, indicating they played according to script and hopes that the World Cup will be realized.

” I’m so happy that we have managed to eliminate South Africa. I thank my players for the commitment showed today and making sure we pick a good result. We only hope to keep the same attitude at the next round and achieve our ultimate target of qualifying to the World Cup.” He said.

The team will get back to the country on Saturday afternoon aboard Ethiopian Airlines.

U20 Women’s National Team Head Coach, Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi has named the final squad of 20 players that will travel to Johannesburg, South Africa ahead of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Uganda will face South Africa in the return leg of the third round of FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers with the game slated for Friday, 17th December at Dobsonsville Stadium.

Uganda won the first leg 1-0 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende on 3rd December courtesy of Hadijah Nandago’s goal.

The squad named comprises of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, five midfielders and five forwards.

Striker Juliet Nalukenge who plies her trade at Chrysomolia FC on loan from Apollon Ladies FC and scored a hat trick over the weekend is part of the squad having arrived in the country on Monday.

Coach Kiyinigi indicates the squad named has the ability to register a good result and progress to the next round.

“I think these are the best players we have selected to go and do the job. I have the belief that the squad selected is competent to help us secure the result we want,” said the gaffer.

“We carry a 1-0 advantage into the second leg but that doesn’t mean we shall go and sit back. We want to go and win in South Africa.” He added.

The team will depart Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday morning (2:45AM) aboard Ethiopian Airways E809 and expected to touch base in Johannesburg on Wednesday at 1:05PM.

The winner on aggregate between Uganda and South Africa will progress to the fourth round where they will face either Ghana or Zambia.

Final Squad
Goalkeepers
Daphine Nyayenga (Lady Doves FC), Joan Namusisi (Kampala Queens FC), Saidah Namwanje (Luweero Giant Queens)

Defenders
Sumayah Komuntale (Tooro Queens FC), Grace Aluka (Olila High School FC), Biira Nadunga (Olila High School FC), Samalie Nakacwa (Kawempe Muslim FC), Harima Kanyago (Lady Doves FC), Aisha Nantongo (Kawempe Muslim Ladies), Asia Nakibuuka (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC)

Midfielders
Shakirah Nyinagahirwa (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Zaina Nandede (Kataka SHE FC), Catherine Nagadya (Uganda Martyrs High School), Margaret Kunihira (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Kevin Nakacwa (Uganda Martyrs High School FC)

Forwards
Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens), Hadijah Nandago (Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC), Juliet Nalukenge(Chrysomolia FC), Lillian Mutuuzo(Kampala Queens FC), Eva Naggayi (Rines SS WFC)

Officials
Leader of Delegation: Frank Ankunzire (FUFA EXCO Member)

Head Coach: Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi
Assistant Coach: Oliver Mbekeka
Goalkeeping Coach: Mubarak Kiberu
Fitness Trainer: Arthur Kyesimira
Team Doctor: Mable Kabatalindwa
National Teams Officer: Paul Mukatabala Nantulya
Team Coordinator: Joan Namusisi
Equipment Manager: Cissy Nakiguba
Brian Miiro Nsubuga: Delegate (UFRA )
Fred Tamale: Delegate (UFPA)
Ismael Senabulya: FUFA Staff
Media Officer : Farid Mpagi

Achieving your goal might be reward enough, but tangible achievements motivate you to persevere or even get better.

For a Ugandan footballer, encrypting your name onto the list of winners in the Airtel FUFA Awards is the most prestigious achievement one can get and for Fauzia Najjemba, who is just 18 years old, being named the Airtel FUFA Female Player of 2021 is a dream come true.

Najjemba who plays at Kampala Queens, captain of the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team and also plays for the Crested Cranes, the recognition is satisfying but believes this will even motivate her to work harder.

FUFA Media’s Stephen Mayamba had a chat with Najjemba who is currently in camp with the Uganda U20 Women’s National preparing to face South Africa and below is excerpt;

FUFA Media: Congratulations once again Fauzia, how does it feel being a car owner at such a young age. What was the feeling like waking up the following morning knowing that you are a proud owner of a brand-new Subaru Impreza?

FN: It really feels good, you know it is not an easy thing to own a car at a young age. I was really excited. I still couldn’t believe it but yes it was true I was a car owner. For this I will forever be grateful to Airtel, FUFA and other partners for making this dream come true.

FUFA Media: People do weird or call them crazy things with newly acquired prized asset. What crazy ideas have you had about your new car?

FN: I woke up in the night and wanted to come out to check it out but just got scared. I knew we had security in camp so it was safe but had I been home I think I would have slept in the garage. I do not think anybody would convince me into going to my bedroom. I would have slept in the car. I actually did not remember where I had placed my keys the following morning. I had to search for them.

FUFA Media: In 2019 you were a nominee and did not win, any other person would have been demoralized. What kept you motivated?

FN: Everything happens at the right time and I believe 2019 was not my time. Maybe back then I was not at that level to win the main award. I had to wait for my time and chance. It all comes down to hard work because under normal circumstances some people would definitely be heart broken and demoralized for not winning. However, i had to keep my cool and continue working hard. Getting nominated then was enough motivation to work extra hard hoping that one day my time would come and thank God it surely did.

FUFA Media: Winning in 2019 and 2021, which year would you have preferred?

FN: I feel better winning in 2021. In 2019 we played tournaments (COSAFA U17 and CECAFA U17) for which I had a considerably good year but even with the COVID-19 challenges and restrictions, I feel better having won in 2021.

FUFA Media: Winning and success normally come with overwhelming pressure to prove. Many fail to handle but how are you planning for your new status in football?

FN: Of course, there it is there but I will not put myself under pressure. People will always put you under pressure knowingly or unknowingly but personally I will not be under pressure despite winning the Airtel FUFA Female Footballer of the Year 2021 Award. However, I will continue working hard to achieve even greater things for the team and personal goals.

FUFA Media: For a young girl nicknamed ‘Fau’ out there whose passion and energy were re- ignited by your achievement, what message do you have for her?

FN: To the young ‘Fau’, believe in yourself, work hard, remain determined at everything you do and most importantly pray. If you fail at one thing at a certain point, pick yourself up and continue working hard until you reach a level when you can be appreciated. I have not achieved this out of just being lazy or relaxing but passion and hard work.

Striker Fauzia Najjemba and Midfielder Bobosi Byaruhanga were on Saturday night named the Airtel FUFA Female and Male Player respectively in a glamorous function at Speke Resort, Munyonyo.

The event attended by the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda as Chief Guest ran under the theme ‘Celebrating Uganda’s Finest Football Personalities.’

Najjemba who is the captain at Kampala Queens FC beat off competition from Lady Doves duo Fazila Ikwaput and Daisy Nakaziro to claim the crown.

On the other hand, Byaruhanga who plies his trade at Vipers SC beat teammate Abdul Aziizi Kayondo and Express FC talisman Erick Kenzo Kambale to take the award.

The aforementioned two drove away in brand new cars on top of a cash prize of one million shillings each as the reward for their sweat.

Najjemba who finished as top scorer at CECAFA Women’s U20 Championship with 11 goals was full of joy and lauded her colleagues both at club and Nations Team.

“First of all, I want to thank the Almighty Allah for this moment. I’m happy but at the same time nervous. This award means a lot to me
I want to thank my family and parents for giving me the chance to play football. I thank FUFA for giving girls the opportunity to showcase our talents.”

The lethal forward who is a product of the Airtel Rising Stars projected highlighted the importance of Airtel and lauded them for the great work.

“I’m proud product of the Airtel Rising Stars and I take this opportunity to thank the Airtel brand for always supporting football. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to play right from a young age.”

Vipers SC midfielder Byaruhanga was full of emotions upon being announced and called his mum to the stage in celebration.

In a teary tone, reminisced how they couldn’t afford schools fees after his dad passed on but football gave him a chance to study.

“I lost my father when I was young and school fees became a challenge. It is at this moment that I want to thank Mr. Justus Mugisha who got me from Kisoro and offered me a scholarship at Standard High School, Zzana.” He said while tears rolled down his cheeks.

Winners in different categories

Airtel FUFA Female Player of the year – Fauzia Najjemba (Kampala Queens)

Airtel FUFA Male Player of the year- Bobosi Byaruhanga (Vipers SC)

Airtel FUFA President Award – Mark Ssali

Airtel FUFA Beach Soccer Player of the year – Emmanuel Wasswa (St. Lawrence BSC)

Airtel FUFA Futsal Player of the year – Travis Mutyaba ( Synergy Futsal Club)

Airtel FUFA Fair Play Award- Police FC (List number of yellow cards)

Airtel FUFA Member Association Award. – Uganda Youth Football Association

Airtel FUFA Club/Team of a particular year- Uganda U20 National Team

FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2022
Third Round, First Leg
Uganda 1-0 South Africa
St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende

Forward Hadijah Nandago made the difference as Uganda overcame South Africa in the first leg of the third round qualifying round of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Nandago continued with her brilliant form from CECAFA Women’s U20 Championship last month where she scored 5 goals in as many games.

She headed home the lone goal of the game in the 19th minute in what proved to be a closely contested encounter.

Despite squandering several chances especially in the opening stanza, Nandago’s first half goal proved to be the decisive moment of the game.

Uganda started the better side and had several inroads at goal with the first realistic chance coming as early as the 6th minute.

Fauzia Najjemba laid up roving left back Sumaya Komuntale whose low drive at the near post was saved by goalkeeper Ramaisha.

Aisha Nantongo who played as a blocking midfielder today too came close in the 11th minute but her ferocious strike outside the area ricocheted of the crossbar.

Striker Juliet Nalukenge had numerous chances inside the box but did not have the desired composure to take away any.

In the second half, the visitors tried to step up efforts but found a resilient Ugandan backline that gave no chances.

At the fulltime whistle, Uganda secured all three points ahead of the return leg slated for 17th December in Johannesburg.

The winner on aggregate will advance to the fourth round where they will face either Ghana or Zambia.