The Federation of Uganda Football Associations held a one day workshop on Tuesday for coaches and administrators ahead of the pilot FUFA Academies League, which is set to kick off on March 22, 2026 at FUFA Stadium Kadiba.
The session, hosted at FUFA Hotel in Kisaasi, focused on aligning participating teams with the federation’s Technical Master Plan, media operations, and the competitions management system that will handle registration of players, coaches, and officials. FUFA president Moses Magogo officially launched the league.
FUFA Football Development Director Bashir Mutyaba led discussions on the Technical Master Plan, which he said is central to standardising youth competitions.
“FUFA launched the Technical Master Plan in September 2023. Those of you who have been following will note that one of its key aspects is the standardisation of youth competitions,” Mutyaba said.
He explained that the plan is built on four pillars covering mass football, elite football, professional football, and life after football, with the workshop placing emphasis on elite player development.
“Today we are focusing on the second pillar, which is elite football. In line with the FIFA Talent Development Scheme, we are working with FIFA to establish programmes that will develop the game further,” he added.
Mutyaba urged academies to align with FUFA’s direction. “We want you to appreciate the direction FUFA is taking and move with us in implementation so that we develop at the same pace while improving and enriching the game.”
Participants welcomed the initiative, pointing to long standing gaps in youth development. Rays of Grace CEO Namugera Martin said the league will provide a competitive platform for U15 players who previously lacked structured competition.
“We are pleased with this new arrangement for the U15 players. Previously, young players progressed from primary school to secondary school without a platform to compete at their level. This hindered their growth. Now we can prepare them knowing there is a league where they can compete and improve. We thank FUFA for this innovation,” he said.
Kayda Soccer Academy director Faizal Nsubuga highlighted the importance of organisation and qualified coaching.
“The key takeaway is organisation and management of academies. Head coaches must work with structured teams. The requirement for CAF C licensed head coaches will improve player development because of their experience and knowledge,” he noted.
Other stakeholders echoed similar views, with Teletubbies head coach Nakyeyune Safina pointing to improved opportunities for young players, while Kayda Sports Academy manager Agaba Robert described the workshop as insightful and urged participants to implement the lessons learned.
Msingi S.A’s Martha Nanyonga said the league comes at the right time to support both player and coach development, while Ebenezer Soccer Academy technical director Musoke Yasin emphasised its role in creating a structured pathway from grassroots to performance level.
The pilot FUFA Academies League will begin with four matches on opening day, marking a significant step in the federation’s efforts to streamline youth football development in Uganda.
