President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has fulfilled his Shs2.4 billion pledge to the Uganda Cranes for their performance at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Museveni had promised Shs1.2 billion for every win, and the Cranes earned two victories beating Guinea 3-0 and Niger 2-0.
Each player and official received about Shs30 million per win, which Museveni confirmed was already deposited into their accounts.
Hosting the team at State House on Tuesday, Museveni praised their effort and said fulfilling the pledge was about motivation.
First Lady Janet Museveni joined the celebrations, singing along with performers as the dinner turned lively.
In a light moment, the President joked about the goals conceded against South Africa, comparing the goalkeeper’s positioning to soldiers abandoning their posts, sparking laughter from the players.
Earlier in the day, Parliament had passed a motion congratulating the Cranes for advancing past the CHAN group stage for the first time in seven attempts. Uganda eventually fell 1-0 to Senegal in the quarterfinals.
FUFA had also rewarded the team with about $11,000 each for their efforts. The campaign, which included a thrilling 3-3 draw with South Africa, was seen as a milestone in Uganda’s football journey as the country looks ahead to co-hosting AFCON 2027.
“Nutrition for sportsmen should improve, and we must invest in education and sports infrastructure,” Museveni added, hinting at broader reforms.
For the players, the Shs2.4 billion payout is both a reward and a boost for the challenges ahead.
