KAMPALA—The lights of Kampala Serena Hotel burned brighter than ever on Friday night, as Uganda’s football elite gathered for the MTN FUFA Awards 2024—a glittering celebration of talent, triumph, and transformation. But amid the star-studded evening, one man stole the spotlight: Denis Omedi, now fondly crowned the King of Ugandan football.
The striker, who now plies his trade at Rwanda’s APR FC, was named Male Player of the Year—a culmination of a sensational season that launched him from local hero to continental and even global recognition.
From Masindi to the World
Omedi’s rise reads like a modern football fairytale. Having joined Kitara FC from Booma FC in 2023, the forward lit up the Uganda Premier League with 15 goals, quickly earning praise as one of the most dangerous attackers in the country. His jaw-dropping rabona goal during the FUFA Super 8 tournament against KCCA FC became the stuff of legend.
It wasn’t just a goal—it was a statement.
That stunning strike caught the world’s attention, landing Omedi among the Top 11 contenders for the 2024 FIFA Puskás Award, making him the first Ugandan ever nominated. Though he ultimately finished third—behind Argentina’s Alejandro Garnacho and Algeria’s Yassine Benzia—his mark on the global stage had been made. The goal also featured in the CAF Goal of the Year shortlist, where he placed sixth after gathering over 13,000 fan votes.
A Season to Remember
His exploits didn’t stop there. Omedi was also named the Real Star Player of the Month for February 2024 in a ceremony held in Lugogo. Those performances helped him secure a transfer to Rwandan giants APR FC, joining forces with former SC Villa forward Hakim Kiwanuka.
Since arriving in Rwanda, Omedi has wasted no time proving his mettle—netting five league goals, including doubles against Kiyovu Sports, a strike against Marine FC, and another in a commanding 5-0 rout of Rutsiro FC.
His incredible year was sealed with a heartfelt and humble acceptance speech:
“I want to thank FUFA under the leadership of Eng. Moses Magogo and his entire executive. I am also deeply grateful to Uganda Cranes coach Mr. Paul Joseph Put for giving me a chance to shine on the national team. Special thanks to Mr. Deo Kasozi who picked me from Booma FC and believed in me. Coach Brian Ssenyondo—thank you for giving me a platform in the Big League. I also appreciate Mr. Atugonza Joshua, the CEO of Kitara FC, for his constant support. And most importantly, I thank my wife—she has stood by me through every high and low. Everyone needs someone who believes in them.”
Omedi didn’t just walk away with a title—he drove off in a Subaru Maybach, the grand prize for his historic win.
A Night of Stars and Stories
While Omedi dominated the headlines, the MTN FUFA Awards had plenty more to celebrate.
Zainah Nandede, of Kampala Queens FC, claimed Female Player of the Year, recognised for her standout performances both domestically and on the international stage. She played a pivotal role in leading the Uganda U20 Queen Cranes to bronze at the 2024 Africa Games while scoring six goals in the domestic league and guiding her club to a second-place finish.
The MTN FUFA Awards 2024 were more than a celebration of superstar performances—they also paid tribute to the unsung heroes and rising stars shaping Uganda’s football future. From coaches and emerging talents to devoted fans and dynamic media personalities, the night honored the breadth and depth of the local football ecosystem.
Denis Omedi, who had already taken home the Male Player of the Year award, also clinched the Goal of the Year prize for his sensational rabona strike that caught the attention of the global football community.
Brian Ssenyondo was recognised as the Male Coach of the Year, applauded for his tactical brilliance and leadership. On the women’s side, Ayub Kalifah took home the Women’s Coach of the Year title for his instrumental role in elevating women’s football to greater heights.
James Bogere was named Upcoming Talent of the Year, marking him as one of the most promising young players to watch in the coming seasons. Rogers Mato, who continues to shine on the international stage, was honoured as the Foreign-Based Player of the Year for his outstanding performances abroad.
In a nod to the passion of Uganda’s football community, the Fan of the Year award was presented to Bilanjilanji, whose unwavering support stood out among thousands. The media’s crucial role in growing the game was also recognised—Cathrine Nassali of FUFA TV and Geoffrey Mugerwa of Salt TV were named Female and Male Media Personalities of the Year, respectively.
The Futsal Association of Uganda received the FUFA Member Association Award, recognising its contributions to developing the sport at the grassroots level. IIyas Omar Omran of Kisenyi Futsal Club was named Futsal Player of the Year, while Nkuumbi Brian from St. Lawrence University emerged as the top Beach Soccer Player of the Year.
A prestigious moment came when Ashford Mamelodi was honoured with the FUFA Presidential Award, a lifetime recognition for his enduring service and impact on football in the region.
The night also shone a spotlight on collective excellence with the unveiling of the Men’s and Women’s Best XI teams of the year.
In the Men’s XI, the goalkeeper was Hannington Sebwalunyo of NEC FC. The defensive lineup included Geriga Atendele (NEC FC), Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC), Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC), and Arnold Odong (SC Villa). Midfield duties were shouldered by Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC), Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa), and Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa). Up front, the striking trio comprised Denis Omedi (Kitara FC), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC), and Allan Okello (Vipers SC).
On the Women’s XI, Daisy Nakaziro of Kampala Queens FC stood tall in goal. The defense featured Jolly Kobusinge, Samalie Nakacwa, and Shakirah Nankwanga from Kawempe Muslim LFC, alongside Auki Kigongo of Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC. In midfield, Zainah Nandede, Phionah Nabulime, and Resty Kobusobozi delivered consistency and creativity. The forward line included Shamirah Nalugya, Agnes Nabukenya, and Sylvia Kabene—each one a game-changer in her own right.
The night was a sweeping showcase of talent, passion, and promise—proof that Ugandan football is not just surviving but thriving.
A President’s Promise
FUFA President Hon. Moses Magogo expressed his delight over the return of the awards and emphasised their growing impact.
