Football

Omar Ahmed Mandela: The Man to steer SC Villa for next five years

Published

3 weeks ago

March 11, 2026

On 10th March 2026, the Chairman of the SC Villa Electoral Committee, Brian Kajubi, officially declared Hajji Omar Ahmed Hussein—popularly known as Mandela—the President of SC Villa for the next five years after he emerged unopposed in the presidential race.

As he embarks on this new mandate, it is important to recognise that Mandela’s association with Villa is neither confined to the last four years nor defined solely by the next five. He is, in every sense, a man of Villa—his bond with the club spanning decades. Understanding the depth of his journey with the club, therefore, provides valuable context as we look ahead to his leadership over the next five years.

Born in 1960 in Kampala, Hajji Omar Ahmed Mandela spent his early years in the bustling neighbourhood of Kisenyi, a place whose vibrancy shaped his youthful ambitions and quietly laid the foundation for his lifelong attachment to football—and especially to Sports Club Villa.

Before joining SC Villa, Mandela—like many others of his generation—was an ardent supporter of Express FC, particularly during the mid-1970s. However, the 1977 ban imposed on Express fractured the club’s fan base, and in the aftermath of this period, Mandela’s association with SC Villa began to take shape.

His early proximity to the club was not accidental; it was woven into his environment, his upbringing, and the people around him.

According to veteran Sc Villa figure, Fred ‘Guy’ Kawuma, Mandela’s father ran a mosque located just in proximity to the Kabaka’s palace, which was not far from where the club traces its earliest roots. Though not an official of the club, Mandela’s father was a sympathiser, a humble supporter who volunteered his time and resources—even buying footballs for the Nakivubo Boys at a time when the club’s needs were many and its finances few.

This spirit of generosity deeply influenced the young Mandela. As a boy, he would spend his evenings at the Nakivubo settlement grounds—where the club had its earlier base, watching the Nakivubo Boys train. Kawuma recounts that even as a financially modest youngster, Mandela often volunteered to take the players for tea at a restaurant in Kisenyi, covering the costs himself. These simple gestures—quiet, sincere, and consistent—became the earliest visible threads of what would grow into one of the most influential relationships in SC Villa history.

As Mandela matured, so too did his ambitions. In the early 1980s, he embarked on a business journey that would evolve into the renowned Mandela Group of Companies. With his financial rise came an increasing capacity to support the club he had loved since childhood.

Despite his expanding wealth and influence, Mandela remained reluctant to take on official positions in the club. Instead, he preferred to support from the outside, contributing as a loyal financer—quietly but significantly ensuring Villa’s stability during the 1980s and early 1990s. His involvement was understated, but his impact was unmistakable.

Mandela’s official entrance into club leadership came in 1993, in the aftermath of the Kawooya leadership collapse, when he agreed to serve as Treasurer under President Francisco Mugabe. It was during this period that his influence became unmistakable.

As treasurer, Mandela was assertive, strategic, and relentless in strengthening the club’s competitive edge. He masterminded several high-profile player signings that shaped SC Villa’s dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s. His most famous recruitment coups came at the expense of Express FC, including the acquisition of key players such as Phillip Obwiny, James Odoch, Joseph Mutyaba, and Geoffrey Bukohore, among others.

In 1998, Mandela was appointed Vice Chairman – Administration, a role many insiders interpreted as grooming him for the presidency. The belief was not unfounded; his administrative strength, financial muscle, and club loyalty positioned him naturally for higher leadership.

During his years as Treasurer and Vice Chairman, Mandela became one of the most influential figures in Villa’s internal affairs. His decisions shaped recruitment, finances, and operational stability, and he built a reputation as a leader who fiercely protected the club’s interests.

Despite his contributions, Mandela’s relationship with a section of the Villa fanbase reached a breaking point on 31st March 2004. After a heated confrontation at Namboole over gate fares(Sc villa Vs Iganga TC), fans hurled insults and objects at him—a moment that deeply wounded him. In the aftermath, he tendered his resignation, citing the indiscipline and disrespect he had endured.

Though he pulled away from official roles, his heart never strayed from Villa. Mandela continued offering modest financial support from the sidelines and attended crisis meetings whenever the club’s stability was threatened. But for years, he maintained a low profile, watching from a distance as the club went through waves of turmoil and administrative stagnation.

A long, quiet spell ended in 2021, shortly after the club’s elections were halted by a court injunction. SC Villa found itself at a crossroads, and Mandela—recognising the critical moment—returned to steady the ship. In the re-organised elections, he was voted President unopposed, a testament to renewed trust in his leadership.

His tenure brought discipline, structural reform, and a restored sense of identity and stability. The culmination of his efforts came in the 2023/2024 season, when SC Villa won its first league title in 20 years—a historic achievement that marked the return of the Jogoos to Ugandan football’s summit.

On top of being declared as the President of SC Villa for the next five years, he also sits on the Board of Trustees— continuing a relationship with the club that began with a young boy buying tea for Nakivubo Boys players in Kisenyi.

Mandela’s story is one of humble beginnings, steadfast loyalty, and generational influence. From the mosque by Nakivubo Settlement School to the boardroom at Sc Villa, he has lived every phase of SC Villa’s history. His journey—spanning early volunteerism, decades of financing, bold administrative leadership, and ultimate presidential triumphs—cements him as one of the most iconic figures in the club’s lineage.

The post Omar Ahmed Mandela: The Man to steer SC Villa for next five years appeared first on Kawowo Sports.

Football

Government okays money for naturalisation of players to feature for Uganda Cranes

Published

12 hours ago

April 2, 2026

Kenny Malone

Government of Uganda has granted the release of funds for FUFA to work on naturalisation of players to feature for Uganda Cranes in the near future.

FUFA President Hon. Moses Hassim Magogo while appearing on CBS FM Akaati Kebyemizannyo show on Wednesday, confirmed Government will release 1.5 Billion shillings for naturalisation of players.

“I want to confirm that we have had engagements with Government for naturalisation of players who have attachment with Uganda but have been raised in Europe and elsewhere. The money we asked for is 1.5 Billion and that will be given to us,” he stated.

Magogo indicated that several countries across Africa and beyond have taken this route to identify players who come with better quality.

“When we told the public we want this money, there was a lot of discontent but I want to tell you that this is what other countries like Morocco, Senegal and others are doing. If you look at our National Team currently, you can see that there are several players like Elio Capradossi who who have agreed to play for Uganda and you can see that their quality is better.”

The FUFA President also revealed that the process has been ongoing and there are several players they are talking to.

“ If you look at what other countries are investing, the money we asked for is way less but we have been doing work behind curtains and there are negotiations going on. FUFA appointed Mr. Mathias Ndawula who moves across Europe to try and identify players that have attachment to Uganda. Hopefully, by the next international window in June, we might see some new faces.”

Devine Mukasa, Arthur Okonkwo, Bashir Humphreys and Joshua Muwana are some of the players that have attachment to Uganda.

The post Government okays money for naturalisation of players to feature for Uganda Cranes appeared first on Kawowo Sports.

Football

Philippines held to draw by Tajikistan, falls short of Asian Cup return

Published

1 day ago

April 1, 2026

Elliot Michael

By: Icko de Guzman

Needing a win to secure a return to the AFC Asian Cup, the Philippines saw its hopes dashed after settling for a 1–1 draw against Tajikistan in their final qualifying match at Hisor Central Stadium in Dushanbe.

The result left the Philippines short of qualification, finishing second in Group A level on 14 points with Tajikistan, but ultimately edged out on goal difference.

The Philippines last reached the Asian Cup in 2019, booking their spot with a 2–1 victory over the same opponent at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila in March 2018.

Raphael Obermair made his long-awaited national team debut and marked it with a goal in the 19th minute to give the Philippines an early boost. The SC Paderborn midfielder connected on a cross from Randy Schneider on the right flank and fired a low strike into the far corner.

However, Tajikistan responded five minutes before halftime, as Shereddin Boboev found space outside the box and unleashed a shot that beat Kevin Ray Hansen, taking a deflection on its way into the goal.

Both sides pushed for a winner in the second half. The Philippines nearly broke through in the 85th minute, with Jesper Nyholm testing the goal, while Jarvey Gayoso had a late chance but sent his volley over the bar.

With their Asian Cup bid falling short, the Philippines now shifts focus to the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026, set for July to August.

The post Philippines held to draw by Tajikistan, falls short of Asian Cup return appeared first on Tiebreaker Times.

Football

St Mary’s Boarding School Kitende optimistic prior to 2026 CAF African Schools Championship in Zimbabwe

Published

1 day ago

April 1, 2026

Kenny Malone

Event: 2026 CAF African schools championship
Dates: 2nd to 10th April 2026
Venue: Harare, Zimbabwe

Team Uganda will be represented by St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School Kitende at the 2026 CAF African Schools championship in Harare city, Zimbabwe (2nd to 10th April).

This event brings together boys and girls under 15 years from different countries across Africa.

Uganda has representation only among the male gender with the other countries being Zimbabwe (Hosts), Benin, DR Congo, Morocco, Senegal, Zambia and the reigning champions, Tanzania.

Ghana is the defending champions among the girls. They will be joined by Zimbabwe (Hosts), DR Congo, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Guinea, Tanzania and Zambia.

St Mary’s Boarding School Kitende players and other officials

Team Uganda was officially flagged off on the evening of Tuesday, 31st March 2026 at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

The guest list was rich led by the Commissioner for Physical Education and Sports in the Ministry of Education and Sports Rev. Canon Dr Duncans Mugumya.

St Mary’s Boarding School Kitende players with the national flag

Other officials included; Edgar Watson Suubi (CEO of Federation of Uganda Football Associations), Justus Mugisha (president of Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association and FUFA Vice president), Christopher Mugisha Banage (USSSA General Secretary), Patrick Alfred Okanya (USSSA president emeritus), Jimmy Ssembatya Mukasa (head teacher, St Mary’s Boarding School, Kitende), Claire Mulindwa and other USSSA members of the secretariat.

The team departed on Wednesday morning aboard Rwandair.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s Isaac Ssentongo is among the pool of match officials selected through the CAF Young Referees’ Programme for this championship.

Quotes:

We have prepared well for these games and we are ready to go for the title.

Livingstone Kulata, team captain

The players have undergone great training and warm up games. We are ready physically and mentally with one target at hand; to bring home the trophy.

Hassan Zzungu, head coach

I thank the Government of Uganda that has continued to invest endlessly in the sports sub-sector. Special thanks to FUFA and USSSA for organizing the football competitions. We are proud of you. You have a wonderful opportunity to showcase your talent to the world. Give your best and you will return victorious.

Rev. Canon Dr. Duncans Mugumya

I congratulate St Mary’s Boarding School Kitende for the making it once again for the CAF Schools African football championship. This is the third time that they are representing the country on the continent. I have all the reasons to believe that you will return victorious from Zimbabwe. I thank the director Dr Lawrence Mulindwa for the massive investment undertaken.

Justus Mugisha, president of Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA)

Justus Mugisha, USSSA president and FUFA Vice president

Special thanks to the Almighty God that we managed to qualify to represent Uganda at the CAF African schools championship. I thank all the players and stakeholders for the effort undertaken to ensure this feat. I thank the Ministry of Education and Sports as well as the Government at large for the conducive environment created. I thank the St Mary’s management for tapping the talent to form a formidable team, one that has qualified to represent the country. Special thanks to the director Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa for the investment undertaken and special appreciation to USSSA for organizing successful sports competitions.

Jimmy Ssembatya Mukasa, head teacher St Mary’s Boarding School Kitende

Justus Mugisha with St Mary’s Kitende head teacher Jimmy Ssembatya Mukasa sharing a light moment

This competition falls in line with the FUFA Technical Master plan; developing players and coaches. To the players, please do not take this for granted. You are now representing Uganda. Take it in your mind, that you are representing Uganda. Do not underestimate time. Play to your best and remember this is your time. I thank the USSSA president for always lobbying CAF to host this particular competition in Uganda. I also applaud the FUFA Executive committee led by Eng. Moses Magogo, Dr Lawrence Mulindwa and St Mary’s Kitende for accepting to host a regional event of this magnitude. In the same vein, I thanked the Ministry of Education of Sports and CAF for this wonderful project, a high-level competition for youngsters.

Edgar Watson Suubi, FUFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

We are humbled for this special occasion to represent the country at the CAF Africa Schools football championship. We thank the director, school management, coaches, players, USSSA and Government for the collective effort. The target remains; to win the trophy back home.

Claire Mulindwa

Rev Canon Duncans Mugumya with Claire Mulindwa

Full Delegation:

Officials:

Head of Delegation: Twahil Kiteezaala
Government officials: Duncans Mugumya (Commissioner Physical education and sports, Ministry of Education & Sports) & Brighton Barugahare (Commissioner Policy and Research in Ministry of Education and Sports)
Member Association Representative: Saidi Ddamulira
Media officer: Aisha Nakato

Players:

Frank Musisi, Bashir Edema, Akram Ssenyonga, Nabiru Kajumba, Shakur Ngobi, Hamidu Kasumba, Nicholas Kawooya, Livingstone Kulata, Haruna Kisakye, Owen Mukisa, Elisa Mukasa, Ivin Kakinda, Musa Kironde, Henry Muhoozi, Lucky Wanyama, Imran Ssebbale, Shafic Kitimbo, Eze Kombi, Derrick Rwothomio, Emmanuel Opio

Team Officials:

Team manager: Ronald Mulajje
Head Coach: Hassan Zungu
Assistant Coach: Micheal Kabali
Safe Guarding: Joel Muwanguzi
Team Doctor: Aloysious Kyeyune
Goal keeping Coach: Mubarak Kiberu

Teams:

Boys: Zimbabwe (Hosts), Benin, DR Congo, Tanzania (Champions), Morocco, Senegal, Uganda, Zambia
Girls: Zimbabwe (Hosts), DR Congo, Burkina Faso, Ghana (Champions), Morocco, Guinea, Tanzania, Zambia