Kampala, (UG):- Former Uganda Cranes international, Baker Kasigwa is dead. At 91 years, Kasigwa died on Saturday at his home in Kisalizi, Masindi district, according to a Sunday statement by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
“FUFA is saddened to learn of the passing on of former Uganda Cranes player Baker Kasigwa that occurred today at his home in Kisalizi, Masindi district,” read in part FUFA’s statement shared via its wide social media platforms.
A towering figure in Ugandan football history, Kasigwa was the last surviving member of the iconic Uganda Cranes team that played in England in 1956 where the barefooted Cranes played 10 friendly games.
During that time, Kasigwa’s teammates included Nafutali Musoke, Alfonse Temaligwe, Aloysius Kalibala, Sam Sebbowa, Gilbert Seruwagi, George Kamba, George Situma, Manase Owiny, William Anyua, Daniel Male Parma, Okot B’tek, Yekonia Odiya, Jimmy Sewava, Kefa Kiwanuka and Edward Semambo, among others. All of them have since died.
Kasigwa was also part of the squad that made Uganda’s debut at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ethiopia in 1962. His contributions to the game remain etched in the memories of football fans across the country.
He retired from the national team in 1963 but remained active in club football which took him to clubs like Railways, Mutungo, Nsambya and Bitumastic. Of all the teams he coached, Pepsi-Cola was the club he paved to fame and climaxing with the 1961 Luwangula Cup (now Uganda Cup) title at Wankulukuku stadium after defeating Kako E.A Flats.
After his playing career, Kasigwa got a job at Lint Marketing Board and turned to coaching; taking over Lint FC. He also coached Pepsi-Cola FC and Uganda Commercial Bank (UCB FC).
In the early 1970s, Kasigwa fell out with his bosses at UCB and quit coaching. He returned to his native village in Masindi where he has stayed all these years.
In 2017, during the Fufa Annual General Assembly, Kasigwa and Jimmy Muguwa (now deceased) were recognized by the federation with plaques and Shs1m each.
Kasigwa’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the pitch. His role in representing Uganda at pivotal moments in the nation’s football history has made him an enduring symbol of passion and dedication.
“FUFA extends its sincere condolences to the immediate family, friends, and the entire football fraternity,” the statement added, reflecting the widespread grief following his demise.
As the nation mourns, Baker Kasigwa will be remembered not only as a football legend but also as a pioneer who helped shape the identity of Ugandan football on the international stage.
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