Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has confirmed that the national football team, the Cranes, received Shs2.4 billion promised by President Yoweri Museveni for their performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
President Museveni had pledged Shs1.2 billion for each win during the regional tournament, which was jointly hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. The Cranes secured victories against Niger and Guinea before bowing out in the quarter-finals with a 1-0 loss to Senegal.
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Speaking during Wednesday’s plenary session, Among told MPs that the funds had already been disbursed to the players.
“As the person who delivered the message, I am happy the boys are now smiling. I am very glad that I did not deliver air,” she said.
The confirmation came as State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, tabled a motion praising the team’s strong performance. He also revealed that the First Family would host the squad at State House Entebbe on Wednesday evening, September 10, 2025, in recognition of their achievements.
The Cranes’ recent run of form has also included back-to-back victories in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Somalia.
However, Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi questioned the government’s approach to sports funding, criticising what he described as short-term incentives.
“It is good that players are rewarded for winning, but can we also support their welfare beyond the matches?” he asked.
“Let’s ensure they have consistent support throughout their careers, not just promises of Shs1.2 billion when they are under pressure to win.”
The debate has renewed calls for long-term investment in sports development and athlete welfare in Uganda.
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