Entebbe, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has fulfilled the Shs2.4 billion pledge he made to the Uganda Cranes after their spirited run at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), with each player receiving at least Shs60 million as a reward for the two victories at the continental showpiece.
The President, who hosted the Cranes to a celebratory dinner at State House Entebbe on Wednesday evening alongside First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, had pledged Shs1.2 billion for every win at the tournament.
Despite exiting the tournament at the last eight, Uganda amassed two victories: a 3-0 triumph over Guinea and a 2-0 win against Niger, making them beneficiaries of the full Shs2.4 billion reward. The performance marked the country’s deepest run at CHAN to date, with President Museveni hailing the players’ resilience and determination.
The President, during the dinner, shared his reflections on the Cranes’ performances, particularly the Algeria game, which he followed keenly from Nakasero as Uganda lost 3-0 at the hands of the Desert Foxes. Drawing parallels from his military background, he emphasized the importance of maintaining balance and tactical discipline.
“Every Force has an Area of Responsibility. When everyone goes on the offensive and leaves the defense and goalkeeper exposed, the opponent can easily exploit that gap,” the President said, while commending the team for their bravery and fighting spirit against formidable opponents.
Mr Museveni confirmed that Shs30 million had already been deposited on each player’s account during the tournament. “Motivation is an essential part of capacity building. As promised, we have fulfilled our pledge to the Cranes for their outstanding efforts,” Museveni affirmed.
He further assured that the cash reward is to continue for every victory in the Cranes’ competitive fixtures at the continental level. “Every win you achieve, I will give you UGX 1.2 billion,” Museveni pledged.
In his light-hearted moments, the President recalled his own days as a sportsman and offered candid tactical tips, even summoning Coach Morley Byekwaso and goalkeeper Mutakubwa during the dinner to revisit key match incidents.
FUFA President Moses Magogo clarified that the package (cash reward) extended beyond players to cover the technical team and support staff, including the Cranes’ driver, ensuring that everyone involved in the campaign shared in the President’s pledge.
Beyond the Cash: Broader Sports Development Plans
The President also used the occasion to highlight the broader vision for sports development in Uganda, noting that while government has invested in infrastructure, heavier investment will follow if Ugandans vote the NRM back into power.
He revealed plans to establish zonal sports centres across the country to aid talent identification, particularly from regions like Sebei and Kigezi, which have historically produced outstanding athletes.
Museveni also underscored the importance of good feeding and proper health for players to attain the right build and agility, directing the Ministry of Health to intensify sensitization of parents and the public on nutrition.
He encouraged athletes to stay in school for as long as possible, at least up to Senior Six, to benefit from school facilities and maintain pathways into the security forces for talented sportsmen and women who post strong academic results.
First Lady’s Assurances
First Lady Janet Museveni, in her remarks, praised the Cranes for their historic achievement and assured the players of government’s continued support. She reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure, talent development, and athlete welfare.
“This victory is proof that with proper preparation, motivation, and faith, Ugandans can achieve greatness. As a government, we shall continue to prioritize sports as a tool of national pride and youth empowerment,” she said.
The evening also witnessed the swearing-in of Uganda’s first-ever National Anti-Doping Organization board, chaired by Prof. Celestine Obua, marking another milestone in strengthening integrity in sports.
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