The State Minister for Education and Sports (Sports), Hon. Peter Ogwang, has congratulated the Uganda U-17 Women’s National Team, the Teen Cranes, upon winning the CECAFA U-17 Women’s Championship 2026 and reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting youth football development.
Speaking during a luncheon held in honour of the team, Hon. Ogwang praised the players, technical team and FUFA leadership for their role in Uganda’s continued progress in football development.
‘On behalf of the Government of Uganda, I congratulate you for winning this very important competition. Football development in this country is on the right trajectory and seeing these young players achieve success at this stage of their careers is a clear indication that the future is bright,’ he said.
The Minister commended FUFA, under the leadership of Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim, for its contribution towards transforming football in Uganda and creating opportunities for young players to compete and succeed at regional and continental levels.
‘For many years, participating in regional and international competitions was a challenge. Today, qualifying and competing at that level has become a standard expectation. We must appreciate the work that has been done to reposition football in Uganda and create pathways for our young players,’ he noted.
Hon. Ogwang highlighted government investment in sports development through schools and national teams. He credited the collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Sports and FUFA for helping identify and nurture talent across the country.
The Minister challenged FUFA to strengthen the transition pathway between school football and club football, particularly for girls, in order to ensure talented players remain active and competitive after completing secondary school.
‘One of the key challenges is ensuring these players continue developing after excelling at school level. We need sustainable competitions and structures that allow them to remain competitive while pursuing their education and football careers,’ he said.
He pledged government support towards initiatives aimed at strengthening girls’ football competitions and encouraged FUFA to submit proposals that would further enhance youth football development.
Hon. Ogwang also revealed plans to formally recommend that the team be hosted by the President of the Republic of Uganda in recognition of their achievement.
‘When a national team wins an international competition, it is important that the achievement is formally recognised. These players deserve appreciation and motivation for bringing honour to the country,’ he stated.
The Minister further emphasised the importance of parental and school involvement in supporting young athletes, noting that football has evolved into a viable career pathway for talented players.
He directed that details of the players’ respective schools be compiled to facilitate engagement with school administrators on how best to support and protect talented athletes as they balance education and sport.
Hon. Ogwang also underscored the importance of performance analysis and player profiling in modern football, noting that schools and clubs should embrace data and video analysis to enhance player development and increase opportunities for professional careers.
Hon. Ogwang also singled out the tournament’s Most Valuable Player for special recognition, pledging a personal cash reward of Shs5 million.
‘We have the tournament MVP here. I will personally provide Shs5 million from my own pocket as a Member of Parliament and Minister. You are one of the best assets we have to market and promote Ugandan football,’ he said.
The Minister concluded by congratulating the Teen Cranes once again and reaffirming government’s commitment to supporting football development and nurturing the next generation of Ugandan talent.
‘My daughters, congratulations on this achievement. Continue working hard and representing Uganda with pride. Government will continue to support your growth and development as athletes and as future ambassadors of our country,’ he said.
