Angel Auki Kigongo’s presence in the Uganda U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes, camp marks another important milestone in a journey shaped by resilience, discipline and quiet determination.
Born in Entebbe and raised in Kajjansi, with family roots in Pakwach, Auki was introduced to responsibility at an early age following the loss of her father when she was seven. As the fourth-born in a family of six, hardship became part of her formative years, a reality that would later define her character both on and off the pitch.
Her pathway into football was unconventional. Growing up in an environment where girls’ participation in the sport was discouraged, Auki faced resistance at home. She initially took up athletics before discovering football in Primary Three, a turning point that would eventually lead her to national team consideration.
Football soon became more than a game. Through football bursaries, Auki was able to progress academically, with the sport supporting her education from primary level through to secondary school.
‘My father was a footballer, and although I lost him early, I believe that inspired me,’ Auki recalls.
‘I started playing by joining boys of my age, without boots or formal coaching.’
Her talent became evident during her primary school years at Kitende Primary School, where she featured on the boys’ team. It was during the Entebbe football nationals that her potential was identified by Mr Ivan, then team manager of St Noah Primary School, a moment that proved to be a key step in her development.
Auki later joined Rines Secondary School before transferring to Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga, where she completed both her O and A Level education. Her football development was further strengthened under the guidance of Coach Alex Kalema, who introduced her to Kick It Soccer Academy.
‘Coach Kalema played a key role in my development,’ she notes.
‘The environment he created, especially for young girls, motivated me to fully commit to football.’
Now part of the Queen Cranes camp, Auki views the call-up as both an honour and a responsibility. Despite her steady rise, she explains that she did not grow up with a defined role model, instead focusing on balancing education and football. In recent years, she has drawn inspiration from the playing style of Mohamed Salah.
Having completed Senior Six, Auki is currently focused on contributing positively to the Queen Cranes in the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers, while continuing her club football journey with Uganda Martyrs Lubaga Women’s Football Club.
Her achievements include winning the 2023 Women’s Cup with Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga after defeating She Maroons, as well as earning a place in the FUFA Women Super League Best XI at the FUFA Awards.
Like many players in camp, her journey has not been without setbacks. A serious knee injury once threatened to derail both her football career and education. Through determination and support, she successfully returned to the pitch.
‘At that moment, it felt like everything was at risk,’ she says.
‘Football has given me the opportunity to be where I am today.’
While modest about her influence, Auki encourages parents to support young girls with an interest in football.
‘For some girls, football is more than a game. It is a calling,’ she emphasises.
One of her most cherished memories came during the Women’s Cup final, when a cross she delivered from the bench was converted by Nagadya Catherine to secure the club’s first title.
As she continues to train with the Queen Cranes, Angel Auki Kigongo’s story reflects not only personal resilience, but also the growing pathway for young women in Ugandan football, from the grassroots to the national stage.
