Heathens Rugby Football Club (RFC) marked a historic milestone on Saturday, holding its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM) and electing Desire Derekford Mugumisa as chairman for the 2026–2028 term.
The meeting, which began at 2:40 pm, brought together players, management, EXCOM members, media, and Uganda Rugby Union representative Yairo Kasasa.
Discussions highlighted the club’s growth in community engagement, grassroots development, and competitive performance.
Mugumisa won the chairmanship with 66 votes, defeating Daniel Rweyora, who received 43 votes.
Rweyora later garnered support for the Vice Chairman role, pending confirmation. Other EXCOM positions were uncontested: Emmanuel Muhangi (Secretary), Martin Namutso (Treasurer), Lucy Ssuubi (Media, Commercial & Advertising), and Edward Kiwanuka (Fans’ Representative).
In his victory speech, Mugumisa acknowledged upcoming challenges and called for teamwork and innovation.
“We need to think differently and pull it off together,” he said.
“I know I can be hard to work with at times, and I ask for forgiveness as we start fresh and do well as Heathens.”
Outgoing Chairperson Asha Kalanzi, who led the club since 2021, praised the club’s resilience and community impact.
“Heathens is still the biggest club. Even in South Africa, Heathens is known,” he told attendees.
Kalanzi highlighted progress in youth development, scholarships, international exchanges, and league performance, commending players for their dedication.
The AGM also celebrated Heathens RFC’s commercial success, noting record replica jersey sales in 2025. Members discussed registering the club as a company to strengthen its professional framework.
Mugumisa, who had previously said that he would remain a devoted fan, days before the election as he expressed his feelings which also echoed pressure;
“Should I lose the election for the Heathens RFC chairmanship, I will wait and see whether those who win would want to involve me. Regardless, I remain a devoted fan of the club.”
Now joyful with a plan and support on his shoulders, Heathens RFC aims to continue its legacy as one of Uganda’s most iconic rugby clubs, blending competitive success with community impact and youth development.
EXCOM 2026–2028:
- Chairperson: Desire Derekford Mugumisa
- Secretary: Emmanuel Muhangi
- Treasurer: Martin Namutso
- Media, Commercial & Advertising: Lucy Ssuubi
- Fans’ Representative: Edward Kiwanuka
