Uganda Premier League clubs will face stricter licensing rules from the 2026/2027 season after the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) introduced major reforms aimed at improving professionalism in local football.
The changes were approved by the FUFA Executive Committee following a consultative meeting with club chairmen on May 7 and will affect financial management, administration, coaching, infrastructure and women’s football.
At the heart of the new regulations is player welfare.
FUFA has ordered all clubs to guarantee timely payment of players and coaches through a formal letter signed by club owners.
Any owner linked to unpaid salaries at the end of the season risks losing eligibility to run a club in future.
Starting July 1, 2026, all player and coach payments must be made through bank transfers from official club accounts. Clubs will also be required to submit proof of payment at four stages of the season.
Teams that fail to provide proof of payment or clear outstanding dues before a transfer window opens will not be allowed to sign new players.
FUFA has also hired an independent consultancy firm to inspect facilities, assess club submissions and provide reports to the Club Licensing Committee before final decisions are made.
From January 2027, every Uganda Premier League club must appoint a full-time Technical Director to oversee football development.
Head coaches and assistant coaches will also be required to hold at least a CAF A Coaching Diploma, although assistant coaches with CAF B licenses and valid contracts will be given time to comply.
Clubs must also appoint certified Safety and Security Officers to oversee matchday safety at home venues.
Every Uganda Premier League club must operate a women’s team from the 2026/2027 season, either under its own structure or through a partnership with an existing women’s club.
Current topflight clubs must field teams in either the FUFA Women’s Super League or Elite League, while promoted sides will compete at least in the regional women’s league.
FUFA also confirmed plans to launch a Uganda Women’s Premier League in the 2028/2029 season, made up only of women’s teams owned by Uganda Premier League clubs.
Youth development is another major focus, with all clubs required to operate a FUFA-licensed G2 Academy to support talent development.
The federation has further directed clubs to maintain official domain email addresses, verified X and TikTok accounts, and submit official club colours with RGB codes during licensing.
Financial accountability has also been tightened. Clubs must now keep proper financial records to allow FUFA audits, with failure to comply risking denial of a license for the 2027/2028 season.
