MTN Uganda and the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) have explained that their decision to open the Uganda Cranes jersey design process to the public is aimed at giving fans a greater sense of ownership of the national team while strengthening the bond between supporters and the Cranes.
The initiative, launched on Thursday under the “Free Your Fayaaa – Tulage Waaka” campaign, invites Ugandans to submit designs for the next Uganda Cranes jersey ahead of the team’s upcoming continental competitions.
While the campaign offers a chance to create the national team’s next kit, officials said the broader objective is to transform supporters from passive followers into active contributors to one of the country’s most recognisable sporting symbols.
Speaking at the launch, MTN Uganda Manager Sponsorships and Events John Paul Okwi said the campaign aligns with the company’s “Free Your Fire” platform, which seeks to create opportunities for Ugandans to showcase their talents and ideas.
“At MTN, we believe every Ugandan has a fire within them. Through our Free Your Fire platform, we continue to create opportunities for people to showcase their talents, ideas and ambitions. With Free Your Fayaaa – Tulage Waaka, we are inviting Ugandans to channel that creativity into something that will unite the nation,” Okwi said.
He added that the initiative is intended to allow Ugandans to leave a personal mark on the national team through a jersey that reflects the country’s identity.
FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha said opening the process to the public would help supporters feel more connected to the Uganda Cranes by allowing them to contribute directly to a symbol they proudly wear during international competitions.
“The campaign gives every fan a chance to add value and truly own the Uganda Cranes jersey they wear,” Mugisha said.
He noted that the jersey represents the hopes, pride and passion of millions of Ugandans and said the partnership with MTN provides an opportunity for supporters to help shape the next chapter of the national team’s identity.
The campaign is open to professional designers, students, creative groups and football fans, with submissions set to open on June 22 and close on July 9. Seven finalists will be selected for a boot camp before the winning design is unveiled as the next official Uganda Cranes jersey.
A prize fund of more than Shs50 million has been set aside for finalists and winners as organisers seek to encourage widespread participation from across the country.
