By Emmanuel Mukwaya, Ugandan Sports Fanatic
As a passionate follower of Ugandan football and someone who deeply appreciates the strides FUFA has made over the years, I write this not in criticism, but in concern and in hope.
Ugandan football is at a critical juncture. The new league format, recently introduced by FUFA, has sparked spirited debate across social media, in fan circles, and even among football administrators. It has prompted questions, confusion, and in some quarters, outright opposition.
One of the most notable voices to weigh in has been that of Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, a respected figure whose contributions to the sport in Uganda are unmatched. Like many fans and stakeholders, he has expressed reservations about the changes not necessarily because change is unwelcome, but because its timing and rollout feel rushed and unclear.
As fans, we have stood with FUFA in both triumphant and trying times. We cheered when Uganda qualified for AFCON after decades. We stood hopeful as local clubs ventured into continental competitions. And we’ve applauded efforts to professionalise the game through better licensing, grassroots development, and investment in women’s football.
But for all this progress, the soul of Ugandan football lies with the fans — the students who skip meals to buy tickets, the boda boda riders who turn on the radio just to catch match commentary, and the communities whose pride is tied to their local clubs.
That’s why this new league format deserves more than an announcement — it deserves a conversation.
We are not against innovation. We welcome fresh ideas, especially those aimed at improving the competitiveness, revenue, and visibility of our local leagues. However, meaningful change must be built on consensus, understanding, and readiness.
Let us not forget that even the most brilliant system can fail without buy-in from those it affects. That’s why I humbly propose that FUFA consider pausing the rollout of the new league format and instead:
- Reinstates the old format temporarily, allowing the ongoing season to proceed with familiarity while avoiding disruption to clubs, fans, and players.
- Conducts extensive education and sensitisation campaigns to explain the structure, goals, and long-term vision of the new format.
- Uses case studies and pilot projects to demonstrate its impact. The Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) could serve as an ideal testing ground. Through their vibrant competitions and structured calendar, we could model the proposed format on a smaller, controlled scale before scaling it to the national league.
This would not only reduce resistance but also foster confidence in FUFA’s direction. Let fans see the benefits, rather than be told.
Ugandan football deserves bold decisions, but also thoughtful ones. The passion is there. The potential is massive. Let’s not alienate the very people who fuel the game with their loyalty.
FUFA, we appreciate your work. Let this be a moment where leadership meets listening and where innovation is matched by inclusion.
For the love and future of Ugandan football, let’s get this right — together.
Emmanuel Mukwaya
A Ugandan sports fanatic
📧 mukwayanuels@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: 0775 459 615
