By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer (Whatsapp 0756322265)
As the January transfer window heats up, a flurry of activity is being witnessed in both football and basketball, with players across Uganda seeking new opportunities, and clubs looking to bolster their squads for the upcoming season. The window has become a critical period for many, as players search for playing time, better wages, and opportunities to showcase their talents on bigger stages.
Football Moves Dominate the Window
In a major football move, Ugandan forwards Denis Omedi and Hakim Kiwanuka have signed with Armee Patriotique Football Club (APR FC) in Rwanda. Both players penned two-year contracts with the Kigali-based club and were unveiled after watching APR’s recent 2-1 victory over Marine FC at Umuganda Stadium.
The two had previously featured in the Uganda Premier League, with Omedi playing for Kitara FC and Kiwanuka for SC Villa. In a highly anticipated clash at Royals Park Butema, Omedi’s Kitara FC edged Kiwanuka’s SC Villa 1-0 in a thrilling match.
The move comes at an exciting time for the players, both of whom were recently called up to Uganda’s provisional 36-man squad by Uganda Cranes coach, Joseph Paul Put, in preparation for the upcoming 2024 CHAN Final tournament (African Nations Championship), which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from February 1st to 28th. This significant tournament offers both Omedi and Kiwanuka a platform to showcase their skills on a global stage.
In other notable football news, rising star Allan Oyirwoth has signed a contract with New England Revolution in Major League Soccer (MLS). The deal, which will start when Oyirwoth turns 18 on January 25, 2025, runs until 2028 with an option for an additional year.
Oyirwoth has made quite an impression with both the Uganda Cranes squad. In his debut for the Cranes in a 2023 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia, he provided an assist in a match that uganda won 1-0.
Oyirwoth’s talents were also on display during the 2023 African Games, where he scored a memorable goal against Senegal. Coach Caleb Porter of New England Revolution is optimistic about the teenager’s potential as he begins his MLS journey.
Meanwhile, in the domestic scene, Vipers SC is closing in on a deal for Amoura Munogera, who recently won the MVP award at the concluded Buganda Masaza Cup while playing for Buwekula Sazza Team. Munogera has been seen training with the Vipers squad, and contract talks are progressing. His addition to the team could provide the six time champions with the firepower they need as they aim to win the UPL title.
In further domestic football action, Eric Dhaira, son of former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Bright Dhaira, is set to join Uganda Premier League side Express FC following his return from the Middle East.
Dhaira’s is expected to bolster Express FC’s defensive options as they aim to compete for the league title. The club is also in negotiations to sign Muhammad Senoga Kagawa, who has previously played for KCCA FC and SC Villa. Talks are still ongoing, and Express fans are eagerly awaiting news on the potential signing of this highly talented winger.
Finally, Alpha Thiery Sali and Emmanuel Alex Waiswa are expected to depart for URA FC and NEC FC, respectively, marking another shift in the domestic football landscape.
Basketball’s Offseason Movement
In basketball, there’s also plenty of excitement as Shakirah Nanvubya, one of the most decorated players in the country, has parted ways with UCU Lady Canons and joined JT Lady Jaguars.
Nanvubya, who led UCU to six titles during her time with the team, was a standout performer last season, earning recognition as the best point guard. Her signing with Lady Jaguars promises to bring fresh energy to the team as they look forward to the 2025 NBL season.
Nanvubya’s move is seen as a significant boost for the Lady Jaguars, who also signed Aziida Nabuyanga, a versatile player who can operate as a shooting guard, small forward, or power forward. Nabuyanga, who also completed her studies at UCU, played a crucial role in the Lady Canons’ 2023 title win. With her diverse skill set, she will provide coach Sudi Ulanga with more tactical options as the team prepares for the upcoming season, which begins in late February.
For Nanvubya, this transition marks a new chapter in her illustrious career, and she is determined to maintain the high standards she set at UCU. “I’m excited to take on new challenges, but I promise to keep my form and continue delivering on the court,” she said in a recent interview.
As the 2025 NBL season approaches, basketball fans across Uganda will be watching these offseason moves closely, eager to see how the reshaped teams perform when the league tips off.
