How FUFA is championing Concussion Awareness Campaign in Ugandan Football

Kampala, Uganda:- The Federation of Ugandan Football Associations (FUFA) is leading efforts to implement FIFA’s concussion awareness campaign across all levels of Ugandan football, from professional leagues to grassroots programs.  

This comes as part of the global “Suspect and Protect” initiative launched by FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) to improve head injury management in football.

The campaign focuses on three key messages: recognizing concussion symptoms, understanding that symptoms may take 72 hours to appear, and ensuring safe return-to-play protocols. 

“We are committed to raising awareness about concussion among Uganda Premier and FUFA Women Super League players, national teams, coaches, medical staff and all stakeholders,” said Dr. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, FUFA’s Head of Medical.

Dr Ahimbisibwe explains that FUFA has already conducted team briefings for senior and youth national teams, including the Crested Cranes (women’s national team), during their recent WAFCON qualifiers against Ethiopia.

Additionally, the federation has launched social media campaigns and developed structured programs to implement FIFA’s concussion protocols. “Football ought to be a sport that is safe and secure for all players. Everyone in the sport needs to notice the signs of concussion,” Dr. Ahimbisibwe emphasized.

The campaign is now being extended to Uganda’s U17 national teams currently in training camps. FUFA plans to reach schools, non-league clubs, and all football enthusiasts across the country. 

FIFA’s Director of Medical, Dr. Andrew Massey, recently presented the global approach to concussion management at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland. The “Suspect and Protect” campaign provides simple guidelines for players, coaches and medical staff to identify and manage potential concussions. 

According to FIFA’s website, symptoms may include headache, dizziness, and confusion or memory problems. The guidelines stress that players with suspected concussion should be immediately removed from play and not return the same day. 

FUFA’s efforts align with World Head Injury Awareness Day, observed annually on March 20. The federation aims to create lasting change in how head injuries are handled in Ugandan football at all levels. 

“The safety and well-being of our players are paramount; we are dedicated to making the game safe for all participants,”  Dr. Ahimbisibwe concluded.