The International Cricket Council has revealed the two groups ahead of the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier due in Rwanda later this month.

The tournament which was initially scheduled to take place last month was postponed due to changes in qualification format will now run from 22-29 September in Kigali, Rwanda.

Uganda has been pitted in Group A alongside Namibia, and their East African neighbours Rwanda and Kenya.

Rwanda made history by qualifying for their first-ever ICC World Cup event in 2022 when they emerged as regional winners in Botswana.

Kenya secured their place in this qualifier after finishing as losing finalists to Malawi in the pre-qualifier (Division 2) a couple of weeks ago.

Malawi is placed in Group B alongside Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Nigeria.

The Baby Victoria Pearls will begin their campaign on Sunday, 22nd September against group favourites Namibia at the Gahanga 2 Oval before taking on Kenya the next day at the IPRC Stadium.

They will then take an off day before their final group game on 25th September against Rwanda.

• 2025 Afcon Qualifiers | Thursday, September 5, 2024
• South Africa vs Uganda – Orlando stadium, 7:00 pm (EAT)

Uganda Cranes and South Africa Bafana Bafana will renew acquaintances as the two sides start the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers in a Group K clash.

The Friday match at the Orlando stadium in Johannesburg will be the first competitive encounter between the two countries since the 2006 World Cup Qualifiers.

South Africa, winners of AFCON in 1996, come into the game as favourites but Paul Put’s Uganda Cranes, aiming to get back to the finals for the first time since 2019, will be out to get a bright start to the campaign.

Uganda missed qualifying for the 2023 Afcon as they finished third in their group with seven points, one point behind Tanzania, who qualified alongside Algeria and a good start will be key for Put’s men.

The Cranes go into the game on the back of a 2-1 home defeat by Algeria in the World Cup qualifiers but had beaten Botswana 1-0 before.

Past Meetings

The Cranes have faced Bafana Bafana four times since their first meeting in 2004.

Uganda has lost on all four occasions, three in regulation time while the other was via penalties in the COSAFA Cup in 2019.

Uganda Cranes Squad

Goalkeepers: Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows FC, South Africa), Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces FC, Ethiopia), Charles Lukwago (Venda FC, South Africa)

Defenders: Elvis Bwomono (St. Mirren FC, Scotland), James Begisa (URA FC, Uganda), Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), Abdu Aziizi Kayondo (FC Sloven Liberec, Czech Republic), Joseph Ochaya (Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC, Egypt), Bevis Mugabi (Famagusta Anorthosis, Greece), Elio Capradossi (Unattached), Halid Lwaliwa (Al Ain, Saudi Arabia), Arnold Odongo (SC Villa, Uganda), Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod, Israel), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africaine, Tunisia)

Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Yanga Africans, Tanzania), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Austin II FC, USA), Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC, Uganda), Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa, Uganda), Travis Mutyaba (Zamalek SC, Egypt), Saidi Mayanja (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Forwards: Denis Omedi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC, Uganda), Joackiam Ojera (Al Mokawloon Al Arab Sc, Uganda), Muhammad Shaban (Al Hilal Benghazi, Libya), Steven Mukwala (Simba SC, Tanzania), Calvin Kabuye (Sandvikens IF, Sweden), Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda), Rogers Mato (FC Brera Strumica, North Macedonia)

MTN Uganda, in collaboration with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), has proudly unveiled the new official jersey for the Uganda Cranes ahead of the highly anticipated upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The jersey unveiling event took place at the MTN Uganda headquarters in Kampala and was attended by top officials from both MTN Uganda and FUFA.

The jersey, which prominently features MTN Uganda’s logo, signifies the company’s unwavering support for the national team as they prepare for continental competition.

Speaking at the ceremony, Somdev Sen, MTN Uganda’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the importance of national pride and unity that the new jersey represents.

“This jersey is not just a piece of apparel; it’s a statement of our collective identity and support for the Uganda Cranes. We are thrilled to offer fans a modern and dynamic jersey that they can wear with pride as they cheer on the team during the ongoing AFCON qualifiers. We encourage all Ugandans to grab their jerseys, wear them with pride, and rally behind our team,” said Somdev.

Rogers Byamukama, the Fufa ExCom member in charge of Marketing, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the strong partnership between MTN Uganda and Ugandan football.

“We are excited to present this new jersey, which captures the passion and determination of the Uganda Cranes. As we approach the upcoming AFCON qualifier matches, we urge all Ugandans to show their support by donning the jersey and creating a powerful wave of unity and encouragement for the team,” Byamukama stated.

Where and how to buy the jersey

The newly designed jersey is now available for purchase at FUFA House. Additionally, fans can conveniently order the jerseys online through the Market by MoMo platform, MTN Uganda’s e-commerce solution that enables customers to shop for products and services with ease.

Customers purchasing through Market by MoMo can enjoy home delivery in and around Kampala, making it easier than ever to support the Uganda Cranes.

The jerseys are available in three colour variants that play a unifying role among all Ugandans, namely; Black, Yellow, and White, with the following pricing options: the Match Day Jersey is priced at UGX 120,000, while the Replica Jersey – Category 2 is available for UGX 50,000 (or UGX 45,000 when purchased via Market by MoMo during September), and the Replica Jersey – Category 3 is offered at UGX 30,000 (or UGX 25,000 via Market by MoMo during September).

Fans can order their jerseys through Market by MoMo by visiting Market by MoMo or accessing the MoMo App and selecting the Market icon. Payment options include mobile money and major credit/debit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, or Union Pay. MTN Uganda is offering a UGX 5,000 discount on replica jerseys purchased through Market by MoMo during the month of September.

The Uganda Cranes are set to face Congo Brazzaville on 9th September at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, in the ongoing AFCON qualifiers. Fans are encouraged to purchase their jerseys and tickets early and to show up in full support, wearing their new jerseys as they cheer on the Cranes towards victory.

How to order the Uganda Cranes jersey through Market by MoMo

1. Log onto the Market by MoMo platform at https://market.momo.africa/. Or visit the Momo app and follow the Market ICON. 
2. Browse the available jerseys, add to their cart, and proceed to checkout to complete the payment through Mobile Money or Card (Mastercard, Visa or Union pay). 
3. A Market by MoMo agent will reach out shortly after the customer has placed his/her order to confirm their order details. The delivery will then be on its way.

Uganda U18 Boys’ National Basketball Team, Junior Silverbacks, start the 2024 FIBA U18 Afrobasket campaign against Angola in the Group B encounter on Wednesday.

It’s the Junior Silverbacks’ third appearance at the AfroBasket following their debut in 2016 in Kigali – Rwanda, and in 2018 in Bamako, Mali, where they settled for 9th and 10th, respectively.

In Angola, a four-time champion and the team with the most appearances in the tournament’s history, Uganda faces a stern test but their performance in the qualifiers gives optimism even with defending champions Egypt and record seven-time winners Nigeria in the same group.

The Junior Silverbacks earned their spot in this tournament by winning the FIBA U18 Zone V Championship earlier this year.

Uganda has some impressive talent including Joel Rugette, who was instrumental in their Zone V triumph, averaging 10 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. Rugette is not new to continental events, having averaged 27 points at the U16 Afrobasket in Tunisia last year.

The squad features many of the players who shone in the Zone V Championship, including Edrine Ekau, Mukisa Nkugwa, Aaron Victor Makmot, Brighton Galiwango, and Peter Sserunjogi.

Uganda faced Angola at the 2016 FIBA U18 Afrobasket, where they suffered a heavy 59-105 defeat.

Groups

• Group A: Mali, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Senegal.
• Group B: Egypt, Angola, Angola, Nigeria.
• Group C: South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, Rwanda.

Bugabula continued their strong start in this year’s MTN Busoga Masaza Cup with a 2-1 win over a determined Bunhole Bunhanhumba in Sunday’s Mawembe Hill Group match played at Kamuli Park Playground.

The home side, led by golden boot contender Majid Kazindula, took the lead in the 37th minute when he capitalized on a loose ball from teammate Collins Wakowera, volleying home.

However, the visitors responded quickly after the break. Rashid Mugere levelled the score in the 47th minute with a clever chip over Bugabula’s advancing goalkeeper, Reagan Mudusu.

Despite several defensive lapses, Bunhole Bunhanhumba managed to stay in the contest, thanks to their exceptional goalkeeper, Nasser Kalulu, who made several saves.

However, the decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Aaron Birikadde unleashed a thunderous strike from about 25 yards out, leaving Kalulu helpless as Bugabula secured their second campaign win.

With this victory, Bugabula tops the group standings with six points, while Bunhole Bunhanhumba sits in second place with three points. Bukono remains without a point after the first round.

Reflecting on the match, Bugabula coach Ronald Lukungu said; “It was a tense match against a very good team that competed well against us in the first half, but our calm approach in the second half helped us to bag home three points. It’s a pleasure to be among the teams leading a group before the interval.”

Bunhole Bunhanhumba’s coach, Ali Kasolo, expressed optimism despite the loss. “My players did not have a chance of training together in the camp. But we hope to give Bugabula a good game in the return fixture next weekend. I pledge to the team patron to improve on the team’s support.”

The action resumes next weekend with a series of matches in the second round.

Joseph Reagan Akena claimed the 2024 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Amateurs Open played at the lakeside course of Entebbe Club.

The 19-year-old Lugazi Hills and Country Club member amassed a gross total of 287. He opened with an identical 2-over 73 score in the first two rounds, playing a course level 71 on the third day to take the overall leaderboard and a 1-under-70 score on the final day.

Akena smiled to victory with a successful half-meter putt on the 18^th hole before hundreds of fans after his closest challenger Joseph Cwinya-ai had fumbled a one-meter putt.

“I am excited to win the Open. It comes as a surprise since my objective was initially a top-three finish. As the tournament grew, I believed in myself and I am glad to be the champion,” Akena said after receiving the trophy.

During the 72-hole action, Akena played a total of 12 birdies, 45 pars and 15 bogeys.

The student at Juliana High School in Lugazi dedicated this victory to his parents, coaches, fellow players, and members at Lugazi Hills and Country Club.

“It has been a tough week. When I came here (Entebbe), I knew I would be among the top cream of players and I worked hard for the trophy that I dedicate to my parents, coaches, fellow players, and members at Lugazi. I will return to school to complete my A-Level as I also continue to play golf,” he added.

Joseph Cwinya-ai, the 2022 winner, took the runners-up slot with 288 gross in 4 rounds.

Titus Okwong finished third with 291 with Ibrahim Ssemakula (297) and Michael Tumusiime (298) completing the top 5.

Match Result: FINAL

• Jinja SSS 130/8
• Mwiri 80 all out
• Jinja SS won by 50 runs

Jinja SSS defended the Boys’ Schools Cricket Week title with a dominant performance against Busoga College Mwiri.

It was the fifth title overall without dropping a game denying Mwiri a 20th crown.

The hosts won the toss and elected to bat first and a great passage of play coupled with some poor bowling from Mwiri allowed Jinja SSS to post a competitive 130 for loss of 8 wickets.

In the run chase, Gerald Olipa found three consecutive boundaries in the opening over but disciplined bowling from Jinja SSS dried up runs for Mwiri. Olipa hustled for over 10 overs but the pressure of a climbing run rate got the better of him going across the line and losing his mid stump.

The loss of Olipa took the sting out of Mwiri and ultimately ran out of wickets with 50 runs still required for victory.

In the plate final, Shree Sahajand nearly made a mess of their run chase against King’s College Budo but somehow they managed to get over the line by one wicket.

King’s College Budo had made it a habit to win by small margins but this time the luck wasn’t with them as Shree picked up the plate trophy.

Individual Award Winners:

• Gerald Olipa (Busoga College Mwiri) – MVP
• Ronald Rubangakene (St Joseph’s College Layibi) – Best Batter
• Stephen Aliganyira (Nyakasura School) – Best Bowler
• Doka AbdulShakur (Busoga College Mwiri) – Best Fielder

The 2024 Uganda Amateur Golf Open Championship entered round two on Thursday, August 29 and by the end of the day, Joseph Cwinyaai ascended to the top of the leaderboard.

Cwinyaai returned to the clubhouse with a course 2-over 73 to take his gross total to 145 after two rounds. He registered an eagle, 4 birdies, 6 pars and as many bogeys as well as a double bogey on hole Hole17.

Cwinyaai who played a 1-over 72 during the opening round yesterday started the second round with three straight birdies before bogeying the next two. He however made amends with an eagle on Hole 7 and was on track the rest of the way until the second last hole.

Second-placed Joseph Reagan Akena also played 73 to follow up a similar score from round one.

Abdul Kakeeto struggled on Day Two playing a 7-over 78 after a very good first round where he shot 1-under 70.

Fourth on the leaderboard is Michael Tumusiime who has been consistent in the opening two rounds with 74 in each round.

Going into the third round, Cwinyaai, Akena, Kakeeto and Tumusiime will play in the pressure group that tees off at 1:10 am.

FUFA Competitions Department has today released the fixtures for the 2024-25 Women Super League.

According to the fixtures, the new campaign will kick off on Friday, 27th September with Kampala Queens FC hosting Wakiso Hill WFC at MTN Omondi Stadium.

The aforementioned game played as a curtain-raiser for the Uganda Premier League game between KCCA FC and Kitara FC on the same day.

According to the federation, some Women’s League games will serve as curtain-raisers this season, considering that the majority of the teams are attached to men’s teams in the Uganda Premier League.

Matchday One will continue on Saturday with three fixtures. Lady Doves FC will be home to FC Tooro Queens, newly promoted teams Olila High School WFC and Amus College WFC (formerly Byafaayo Queens) will face off in Soroti while reigning Champions Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC will start their title defence at home to Rines SS WFC.

On Sunday, 29th September, Uganda Martyrs Lubaga will host She Corporate FC in Bugolobi while Makerere University WFC will play She Maroons FC.

The 2024/25 season also comes with an increase in the number of teams from ten to twelve, following the promotion of She Corporate FC, Amus College WFC, FC Tooro Queens FC and Olila High School WFC.

The first round will run up to 15th December 2024 and the League will break off up to 1st February 2025 when the second round will begin.

The 2024/25 season is expected to end on 3rd May 2025.

Finance Trust Women Super League 2024/25

Matchday One Fixtures

Friday, 27th September 2024

• Kampala Queens FC vs Wakiso Hill WFC – MTN Omondi Stadium

Saturday, 28th September 2024

• Lady Doves FC vs FC Tooro Queens FC – Katusabe Stadium
• Olila High School WFC vs Amus College School – Olila Ground
• Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC vs Rines SS WFC – Kawempe Muslim Playground

Sunday, 29th September 2024

• Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC vs She Corporate FC – Bugolobi Coffee Ground
• Makerere University WFC vs She Maroons FC – Makerere University Ground

UCU Lady Canons took charge of the National Basketball League Playoffs finals after defeating defending champions JKL Lady Dolphins 71-66 in a thrilling Game 1 encounter at Lugogo.

The Lady Canons had a quick start establishing a 15-7 lead by the end of the scrappy first quarter. Their momentum carried into the subsequent quarter and the university side was up 40-23 at halftime.

However, the Lady Dolphins fought back in the third quarter, reducing the deficit to just eight points.

JKL kept chipping away in the fourth quarter and with just under three minutes left in the final quarter, Rita Imanishimwe hit a 3-pointer to tie the game at 60.

In the tense fourth quarter, Bridget Aber (UCU) and Jane Asinde fouled out of the game.

UCU’s captain Shakirah Nanvubya was instrumental, leading all scorers with 21 points. Tracy Namugosa and Shilla Lamunu also made significant contributions with double-digit scores of 17 and 11 points, respectively.

Asinde, despite fouling out, led JKL Lady Dolphins with 17 points, followed by Ekone Brenda with 12, while Hope Akello and Imanishimwe both added 11 points.

JKL will be looking to bounce back in Game 2 on Friday.