Brian Ssenyondo, who guided Kitara to the Uganda Cup title last season, is setting his sights on a future beyond football coaching.
While the passionate coach dreams of managing the Uganda Cranes, he also envisions a significant role in shaping the country’s sports landscape through political leadership.
Appearing on NBS Sport’s Premier Sport Sandabula on Tuesday, Ssenyondo spoke about his ongoing pursuit of his CAF A License, a key milestone in his coaching career, and the exciting possibilities ahead.
“Becoming the national team coach is every football coach’s dream, and I am pursuing my CAF A License, let’s see what the future holds,” he shared.
However, Ssenyondo’s ambitions extend beyond the pitch.
The coach, hailing from Masaka, has expressed a deep interest in pursuing a political career, particularly in Parliament.
His vision is to see more sports professionals in political roles, a move he believes would foster the growth and development of Uganda’s sports sector.
“There’s so much potential in sports, and we need leaders who understand its value,” Ssenyondo remarked, emphasizing the need for leaders who can push for real change.
In drawing inspiration from Moses Magogo, President of the Uganda Football Federation (FUFA), Ssenyondo highlighted how political involvement can positively impact the development of football.
He commended Magogo’s efforts, particularly his role in securing Uganda’s successful AFCON bids and the refurbishment of Namboole Stadium to international standards.
“Moses Magogo has shown that political involvement can help grow football, bringing more support from the government, especially with the new sports law,” Ssenyondo said.
He added, “The new sports law and the AFCON hosting bid are monumental achievements that wouldn’t have been possible without a leader who understands both the sport and the importance of political advocacy.”
Ssenyondo’s own political aspirations are driven by the belief that there is a gap in Uganda’s sports leadership.
He pointed out that while many sports enthusiasts sit in Parliament, there are few individuals with deep, hands-on experience in specific sports disciplines, something he believes is essential for real change.
As Ssenyondo continues his journey, it will be fascinating to see how his dual vision, on and off the pitch, shapes both his coaching career and his political aspirations, ultimately contributing to the development of sports in Uganda.