By Musa Kikuuno
Busoga United FC is embarking on a transformative journey under the patronage of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadumbula Gabula Nadiope IV.
The club, currently battling for survival in the FUFA Big League, has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at rejuvenating its performance and fostering greater community engagement.
Talent Trials to Build a Stronger Squad
The club has announced football trials scheduled to take place from 28th December 2024 to 10th January 2025 at the Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe.
Open to aspiring talents aged 17 to 25 years, the trials are aimed at identifying players to strengthen the team under the stewardship of head coach Charles Ayiekoh Lukula and his assistant Eric Ndifuna.
The trials are part of a broader strategy to ensure the club returns to the Uganda Premier League next season.
“We are looking for passionate and talented players who can help write a new chapter for Busoga United,” said Nabbosa Najiba, the club’s PRO, in an interview with the Busoga Times.
Upcoming Fixtures
Busoga United’s next FUFA Big League fixture is a home game against Arua Hill on 5th January 2025 at the Kyabazinga Stadium.
This will be followed by an away trip to Masindi to face Booma FC on 12th January, before hosting Blacks Power on 19th January.
These games are crucial as the club fights to escape the relegation zone, where it currently sits 14th with 8 points from 11 games.
New Branding, New Identity
On 14th December 2024, the Kyabazinga of Busoga officially rebranded the club at a colorful ceremony held at the Igenge Palace in Bugembe, Jinja District.
The event marked the unveiling of a new jersey and badge, symbolizing a fresh start for the team.The jerseys, priced at UGX 50,000, are available at the club’s office on the third floor of Busoga House along Main Street in Jinja, or online via Pesapal.
Fans who purchase the jersey automatically qualify as members of the club, a move aimed at boosting fan engagement.
Membership and Support
Busoga United has introduced a tiered membership system to encourage community support:
Citizens: Free of charge, with bragging rights.
Members: UGX 20,000, granting information and voting rights.
Supporters: UGX 30,000, which includes an ordinary season ticket.
Congress: UGX 100,000 or UGX 250,000, with benefits ranging from season tickets to replica jerseys and participation in the club congress.
Executive: UGX 1,000,000, offering VIP benefits and two replica jerseys.
President: UGX 5,000,000, a role reserved for the club president.
Performance So Far
This season, Busoga United has endured a challenging campaign, with just one win and five draws in 11 games. Recent results include a 3-0 loss to Gaddafi FC on 17th December, and a 1-0 victory over Ntugasaze FC on 8th December.
Despite the struggles, the team remains determined to turn the tide.
A Message of Hope
The Kyabazinga’s involvement and the rebranding efforts symbolize a renewed commitment to uplifting Busoga United.
“This is not just about football; it’s about restoring pride in Busoga,” said Najiba.
As the trials kick off and the team gears up for critical matches, fans are urged to rally behind their club.
Together, Busoga United aims to reclaim its place among Uganda’s football elite.
For more information or to purchase club merchandise, visit the Busoga United FC office or access the online store at Pesapal: Busoga FC Payments.
