Former Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 13-year career with the national team.
In an official statement released today, Aucho said the decision brings to a close “an unforgettable 13-year journey” representing Uganda. He described wearing the black, yellow and red jersey as the greatest privilege of his life.
A career that spanned an era
Aucho made his international debut on November 30, 2013, and went on to earn 77 caps for the Cranes. He also had the honour of captaining the national side.
His tenure coincided with one of the most significant periods in Ugandan football. In his statement, Aucho said he helped end Uganda’s 38-year wait for Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification and went on to compete in three AFCON tournaments, leading the team onto the pitch as captain.
From Bugembe market to the continental stage
Aucho reflected on his humble beginnings, saying he grew up working at the Bugembe market abattoir, with a simple dream: to hear Uganda’s national anthem echo on the biggest stages of world football.
“To have achieved that… is a testament to faith, hard work, and the unwavering support of an entire nation,” he said.
Tributes to coaches, teammates and fans
The midfielder thanked the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and its administrators for supporting the team’s journey. He also paid tribute to the coaches who shaped his career: Milutin “Micho” Sredojeviฤ, Sรฉbastien Desabre, Johnathan McKinstry and Paul Put.
He singled out the late Fred Kajoba for a special tribute, saying Kajoba’s belief and guidance “changed my life.”
Aucho described his teammates as “brothers on the pitch” with whom he fought, celebrated and shared historic moments. He also thanked supporters, crediting the roar of fans at Namboole and across the country for keeping the team going “through every challenge.”
Passing the torch
Aucho made clear that stepping away from the national team does not mean stepping away from Ugandan football.
“While my journey on the pitch with the national team comes to an end, my commitment to Ugandan football remains unchanged,” he said, adding that it is now time for “a new generation of heroes to step forward, carry the flag, and write their own history.” He said he looks forward to supporting them as “one of Uganda’s biggest fans.”
He signed off with the line “For God and My Country,” and the statement carries the slogan “Once a Crane, Always a Crane.”
The statement was shared on Aucho’s official social media channels. FUFA had not issued a response at the time of publication.
