In his first address of the year, FUFA President Moses Magogo outlined the federation’s achievements in 2024 and highlighted bold plans for Uganda’s football in 2025. The press briefing, held at the FUFA Complex in Mengo, was attended by key FUFA officials, including the 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha and Communications Director Ahmed Hussein, among others.
Magogo began by acknowledging the contributions of those who passed away in 2024, including football luminaries Fred Kajoba, Esther Musoke, and Baker Kasigwa, as the federation continued to honor their memory. “Football is a public good,” he said, recognizing its importance in Ugandan society.
The President made it clear that FUFA’s ambitions for 2025 go beyond domestic competitions. He provided updates on major upcoming events, including the CHAN 2024 tournament and AFCON 2027, where Uganda, together with Kenya and Tanzania, will jointly host the continent’s prestigious football events. “We dream big,” Magogo declared, emphasizing the ongoing developments in sporting infrastructure aimed at improving stadiums in the region.
In his address, Magogo spoke of significant strides in the country’s football infrastructure. He celebrated the return of Mandela National Stadium and shared details on the ongoing renovations, including the anticipated completion of Hoima Stadium by December 2025. Projects at Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium, Kyambogo University Training Facility, and Makerere University were also mentioned, with the government committing funds for these and other initiatives such as MTN-Omondi Stadium and Masaka Recreation Ground.
Regarding football governance, Magogo praised FUFA’s strong structure, noting the swift and transparent judicial processes which saw 19 individuals banned for match manipulation in the previous year. He reaffirmed FUFA’s commitment to a credible administration, highlighting the growth of the secretariat under CEO Edgar Watson.
The President also highlighted the federation’s focus on football development. FUFA’s ambitious Technical Masterplan, a seven-year program, aims to elevate mass football, elite football, and professional football, with an emphasis on life after football. Furthermore, FUFA has introduced capacity-building courses in coaching, refereeing, and administration to enhance the quality of the game.
While discussing football competitions, Magogo acknowledged challenges in securing sufficient funding for leagues, particularly the Uganda Premier League. However, he was optimistic about the growth of women’s football, citing the recent partnership with Finance Trust Bank to sponsor the FUFA Women Leagues.
On national teams, Magogo shared that Uganda’s football teams had an impressive 41 international matches in 2024, including the successful qualification for AFCON 2025. The Uganda Cranes, Uganda Hippos, and Queen Cranes made notable achievements, further elevating the country’s profile on the continental stage.
Magogo also touched on the growing financial stability of FUFA, with the federation operating on a 41.1 billion Ugandan shilling budget, bolstered by government support and sponsorships. In addition, FUFA’s reserve fund, established in 2019, has grown to 400 million shillings, providing a financial cushion for unforeseen events.
On the business front, FUFA has expanded its revenue streams through the FUFA Sportware Limited Company, which produces products like the Zakayo Balls and Uganda Cranes jerseys. Magogo issued a stern warning against counterfeit merchandise, vowing that those behind such activities would face legal action.
Addressing the issue of match-fixing, the President reiterated FUFA’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the game. “We have the capacity to investigate and identify those involved,” he stated, after the federation banned 19 individuals in 2024 for match manipulation.
Magogo concluded by expressing gratitude to all stakeholders who have contributed to the growth of Ugandan football, including President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, the Ministry of Education and Sports, parliamentarians, sponsors, and fans.
With a clear vision for 2025 and beyond, Magogo’s address sets the stage for continued progress in Ugandan football as FUFA strives for greater success on and off the field.
