*FUFA President Magogo’s New Year Address Highlights Progress and Projections for Ugandan Football in 2025

By John Kusolo

FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim addressed the nation in a New Year press briefing held at the FUFA Complex in Mengo. Flanked by key members of the FUFA Executive, Magogo reflected on the achievements of 2024, outlined challenges, and shared ambitious plans for 2025 aimed at advancing football in Uganda.

This address covered a wide range of topics, including CHAN 2024, AFCON 2027, sporting infrastructure, governance, national teams, and business growth. Below is a comprehensive summary of his address.

*Reflections on 2024 and Aspirations for 2025*

Magogo began by extending condolences to the football fraternity for the loss of notable contributors such as Fred Kajoba, Esther Musoke, and Baker Kasigwa. He highlighted that football holds deep emotional significance for Ugandans, and FUFA is committed to elevating the game.

Major Tournaments: CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027

Magogo emphasized FUFA’s vision of hosting international tournaments, particularly through the successful joint bid with Kenya and Tanzania for AFCON 2027. “There were doubters, but we convinced our governments and CAF. This opportunity will improve sporting infrastructure across East Africa,” he stated, urging private sector investment in hospitality and events around these tournaments.

*Sporting Infrastructure Development*

Acknowledging long-standing challenges, Magogo detailed ongoing and planned infrastructure projects:

Mandela National Stadium: Renovations resumed in 2024, with Phase Two set to begin.

Hoima Stadium: Progress is ahead of schedule, expected completion by December 2025.

Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium: Construction has commenced.

Training Facilities: Improvements at Kyambogo University, Makerere University, Wankulukuku, KISU, and Kadiba are underway.

Other Projects: Government-backed projects include MTN Omondi Stadium, Masaka Recreation Ground, and Kakyeka Stadium.

Football Governance and Administration

Magogo lauded FUFA’s governance structure, emphasizing transparency and efficiency in judicial processes. Last year, 19 individuals were banned for match-fixing. He also commended the FUFA Secretariat, led by CEO Edgar Watson, for its professionalism and adaptability.

*Football Development*

Magogo outlined FUFA’s three core pillars: Governance, Football as a Sport, and Football Business. Key initiatives for 2025 include:

Capacity Building: Courses for coaches, referees, and administrators.

Science and Technology: Recruitment of staff specializing in nutrition, data analysis, and sports equipment.

Technical Masterplan: A seven-year program targeting Mass, Elite, Professional Football, and Life After Football. This includes developing a football curriculum and a Talent-Identification Network to scout young players.

Competitions and National Teams

Magogo expressed concerns over insufficient funding for the Uganda Premier League but celebrated progress in women’s football with Finance Trust Bank’s sponsorship of FUFA Women’s Leagues.

The national teams’ success in 2024 was highlighted:

AFCON 2025 Qualification: Uganda Cranes secured a spot.

African Games: Uganda Hippos won silver, and Queen Cranes earned bronze.

U-17 AFCON 2025 Qualification: Another milestone achievement.

Football Business and Financial Stability

FUFA operates on a UGX 41.1 billion budget, with UGX 17 billion from the Government of Uganda for national teams. Revenue streams include sponsorships, media rights, CAF, FIFA, and merchandise sales.

Reserve Fund: FUFA’s reserve account has grown to UGX 400 million.

SACCO: FUFA’s savings and credit initiative now boasts UGX 1.5 billion.

SunSystem: A financial management system enhancing accountability.

Marketing and Media

FUFA’s marketing arm, Janzi, has introduced Zakayo Balls, referee attire, and Uganda Cranes jerseys, with plans to expand in 2025. Magogo issued a stern warning against counterfeit products.

FUFA also operates FUFA TV and Radio to promote football and document milestones, including a centennial book on FUFA’s history.

*Match-Fixing Crackdown*

Magogo reaffirmed FUFA’s zero-tolerance policy toward match-fixing, urging stakeholders to “Report, Resist, and Reject” such activities.

*Acknowledgments*

In conclusion, Magogo thanked key contributors, including President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, Minister of State for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, Parliament, sponsors, referees, club administrators, players, and fans.

*Looking Ahead*

With ambitious plans for 2025, FUFA aims to solidify Uganda’s position as a football powerhouse while addressing infrastructure, governance, and financial sustainability challenges. Magogo’s address underscores FUFA’s commitment to the growth and development of football in Uganda.

For updates on FUFA’s activities, visit www.fufa.co.ug.