President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the Uganda Cranes for their spirited performance in the recent continental tournament and pledged increased support for the team as Uganda continues to make its mark in African football.
On Wednesday evening, the President and First Lady Janet Museveni hosted the national team for dinner at State House Entebbe to celebrate their achievements. The President, in his trademark analytical style, shared reflections on the team’s performance, drawing lessons from both sports and military strategy.
“As I joined Maama to watch the Cranes playing against Algeria recently in Nakasero after my official duties, I reflected on a principle I often teach in the military: every Force has an Area of Responsibility (AOR),” President Museveni said. “When everyone goes on the offensive and leaves the defence and goalkeeper exposed, the opponent can easily exploit that gap. That was my analysis of the game.”
Despite the technical lessons, the President commended the players for their dedication and announced that the government had fulfilled its earlier promise of Shs1.2 billion for every match won. “As promised, we have fulfilled our pledge to them, as motivation is an essential part of building capacity,” he said after handing the team a Shs2.4bn cheque.
“Our team’s efforts cannot go unappreciated,” Museveni said. “The Cranes fought valiantly, and as we say in Swahili, ‘Tafadhali,’ let us support and motivate them to reach even greater heights.”
The President also lauded the Local Organising Committee, chaired by the First Lady, for the successful co-hosting of the tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
“This event was not only a sports competition but also a lesson in unity and regional capacity,” he noted.
On September 7, Museveni revealed that he had received a message from Dr. Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), praising Uganda’s role in hosting the CHAN 2024 tournament.
The message, delivered by Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among, highlighted Uganda’s growing reputation as a capable host for major sporting events.
“I want to thank the Local Organising Committee, as well as the Ministry of Education and Sports, led by Maama Janet, and everyone who contributed to the successful hosting of the tournament,” Museveni said. “Most importantly, I thank the supporters who came out in large numbers to cheer for the teams.”