The 2024 MTN FUFA Awards are set to culminate in a grand celebration on May 30 at the Kampala Serena Hotel, where Uganda’s football fraternity will come together to honour the best performers of the 2023/24 season.
Rogers Byamukama, chairperson of the FUFA Awards committee, outlined the selection process behind the top contenders, emphasizing the role of expert panels in shortlisting candidates for the major individual accolades.
“For the best player, we have a panel of experts, usually the coaches, who provide us with individual names. We then tally and present the top five,” said Byamukama.
In the Men’s Player of the Year category, the five shortlisted players include Denis Omedi, formerly of Kitara FC, SC Villa’s Ronald Ssekiganda and Jonah Kakande, Jude Ssemugabi of Kitara, and Vipers SC’s Allan Okello.
The Women’s Player of the Year shortlist features Agnes Nabukenya (Kawempe Muslim), Daisy Nakaziro (Kampala Queens), Resty Kabusobozi (Lady Doves), as well as Kampala Queens’ duo Shamirah Nalugya and Zainah Nanded.
Public voting opens on Saturday, May 24, through an online platform.
Byamukama confirmed that fan input will contribute to the final outcome in several categories, underscoring the importance of community engagement in recognizing outstanding talent.
Beyond the top player categories, the awards will also honour achievements in other competitive fields. Nominees for Best Foreign-Based Player include Bevis Mugabi, Elio Capradosi, Steven Mukwala, Rogers Mato, and Khalid Aucho.
Coaching excellence will also be recognized, with Hussein Mbalangu (NEC FC), Brian Ssenyondo (Uganda Cubs), and former SC Villa coach Susan Stojanovic nominated for Male Coach of the Year. In the female category, Frank Anyau (Amus College), Isaac Hassan (She Corporate), and Ayub Khalifa (Kawempe Muslim) are in contention.
Rising talents Richard Okello (BUL FC), Brian Jara (KCCA FC), and James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine) are among those competing for the Upcoming Talent award.
Additional honours will be presented in categories such as Goal of the Year, Beach Soccer Player of the Year, Futsal Player of the Year, Fan of the Year, and MTN Media Personality of the Year.
As preparations continue, Byamukama reaffirmed FUFA’s commitment to celebrating excellence across all levels of the sport.
“These awards are about recognising hard work, passion, and consistency throughout the season,” he said.
