March belonged to two standout figures in Uganda’s top-flight women’s football league: Uganda Martyrs Lubaga head coach Edward Kasozi Ssozi and Kampala Queens captain Shamirah Nalugya.
Both were honoured at the FUFA Women Super League monthly awards held at Twed Towers Plaza, a venue now becoming synonymous with celebrating excellence in women’s football.
Kasozi was crowned Best Coach of the Month after guiding Uganda Martyrs to a flawless record in March, three games, three wins edging out fierce competition from Kampala Queens’ Asefa Firew Hailegabriel and Tooro Queens’ Ayesiga Rodgers.
On the pitch, it was Nalugya who stole the spotlight. The Kampala Queens skipper scored three goals and provided one assist across three matches, earning her the Player of the Month accolade.
Despite a strong campaign by teammate Zainah Nandede who also bagged three goals and added two assists, it was Nalugya’s leadership and influence that won her the nod from the panel.
The awards ceremony, attended by Finance Trust Bank Chief of Business Andrew Agaba and Hon. Nakiwala Kiyingi was a celebration not just of athletic achievement but of a movement gaining momentum.
Nakiwala, an outspoken champion of women’s football, emphasized the importance of monthly recognition in nurturing talent and sustaining visibility.
“I’m happy to note that this is my baby,” she said. “We never used to have these monthly awards. It wasn’t enough to reward talent just at the end of the season. Now, we can recognize stars as they rise.”
She also lauded the bank’s trailblazing efforts in recognizing the contribution of media, highlighting the introduction of a journalist award, a rare and thoughtful addition in African football circles.
Ismail Mulangwa and Sinan Rajub Ssenoga were the March recipients of this honour.
After receiving his award, Coach Kasozi was full of gratitude and reflection. “I want to thank the Uganda Martyrs fraternity, the players, fans and especially my technical staff. They’ve done a tremendous job organizing and preparing these girls.”
He also acknowledged the vital role Finance Trust Bank has played: “Football requires strong financial backing. The support from Finance Trust has enabled these girls to compete. The competition this season has been stiff and teams have invested heavily.”
Kasozi noted that despite early-season turbulence and a loss of key players, his side is regaining its footing.
“In the second round, we managed to reinforce the squad and our goal remains to win the remaining matches and finish strong.”
