Kawempe Muslim midfielder Namutebi Krusum has emerged as one of Uganda’s most promising talents in women’s football, with a growing reputation as one of the top midfielders in the country.
Originally a netball player known for goal shooting, Krusum transitioned into football during her time at Aidan Primary School, where she began playing seriously.
Her talent was identified early by Coach Bashir, who began training her before facilitating her move to Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, a powerhouse in girls’ football development. At Kawempe, she was awarded a full bursary, marking the start of her formal football journey.
“I started playing football at Aidan Primary School, but it was when I joined Kawempe Muslim that I started taking it seriously,” Krusum told our reporter in an interview. “Coach Bashir played a big role in my growth.”
After joining Kawempe Muslim, she was loaned to Isra Soccer Academy, where she played for one season. Her performance during this period led to her selection for Uganda’s U17 national team.
Krusum has since played a key role in Kawempe Muslim’s success. She has helped the school win multiple titles, including the East Africa Schools Championship, national, zonal, and district competitions.
Additionally, she was instrumental in Kawempe Muslim Women Football Club’s victory in the FUFA Women Super League in the 2023/24 season.
Despite her achievements, Krusum acknowledges facing several challenges in her journey. “There have been hard moments, especially dealing with abusive fans,” she said. “But football has given me more than I imagined.”
Her aspirations are clear. Krusum is targeting a professional football career in Europe with hopes of supporting her family and advancing her dreams. She draws inspiration from Shakira Nyinagahirwa, a fellow Ugandan footballer.
“I want to play for big clubs in Europe and help my family,” Krusum said.
As women’s football in Uganda continues to grow, players like Namutebi Krusum stand out not just for their skills but also for the resilience and ambition they bring to the game.
