By Spy Uganda
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has sent a strong message of support to the Uganda Cranes as they battle Algeria in the opening match of the CHAN 2024 tournament. In a move that has electrified both fans and players, the President pledged a whopping Shs1.2 billion for every match won by the national team during the tournament.
The presidential pledge, which underlines the government’s commitment to promoting sports excellence, was officially announced to the team by FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo at the Cranes’ camp at FUFA Technical Centre, Njeru, located at FUFA Hotel.
The message was delivered on behalf of the President by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Anita Among, who emphasized the importance of national pride and unity through sports.
“This pledge isn’t just about money; it’s about inspiring our boys to go out there and conquer Africa. It’s a motivation from the highest office in the land — a show of belief in your abilities to fly Uganda’s flag high,” Speaker Among said as she addressed the team.
The Uganda Cranes is already taking on Algeria this evening at the iconic Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, which has recently been refurbished to meet international standards. The stadium is packed with fans eager to witness Uganda’s first official fixture in CHAN 2024, as excitement continues to build nationwide.
Uganda is in a tough Group C alongside regional and continental powerhouses Algeria, Guinea, Niger, and South Africa. The team’s campaign schedule is as follows:
- Aug 3: Uganda vs Algeria (Mandela National Stadium)
- Aug 8: Uganda vs Guinea
- Aug 11: Uganda vs Niger
- Aug 18: Uganda vs South Africa
CHAN 2024 (African Nations Championship), which runs from August 2nd to 30th, is exclusively reserved for players who play in their domestic leagues — making it a critical platform for local talent to shine on the continental stage.
Already, the tournament has seen explosive action with Tanzania defeating Burkina Faso 2-0, and Kenya narrowly edging DR Congo 1-0 in earlier matches. Uganda’s debut tonight is expected to set the tone for what fans hope will be a historic campaign.
FUFA President Magogo lauded President Museveni’s pledge, noting that it sends a clear message of national backing:
“The President has shown that he is not just a fan of Ugandan football, but a partner in progress. This commitment should fire up the team to go for every win.”
The promise of Shs1.2 billion per win has sparked massive buzz on social media and in football circles, with fans and pundits praising the President’s bold incentive. Many say it reflects the growing importance of football as both a unifier and a source of national pride.
Team captain Milton Karisa expressed gratitude on behalf of the players, saying:
“This is huge motivation. We promise to give everything on the pitch and fight for our country. Thank you, Mr. President, for believing in us.”
As the Cranes take to the pitch under the floodlights of Namboole, the stakes have never been higher — and the nation is watching with bated breath.
