First Lady urges dignity and identity in promotion of women’s football

The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet K. Museveni, has called on FUFA, football clubs, academies, and other stakeholders to promote women’s football in a way that preserves the dignity, identity, and values of young girls and women, even in the male-dominated world of sports.

She made these remarks on Friday at State House Nakasero, during a meeting with a FUFA delegation led by Third Vice President Florence Nakiwala.

The team had come to unveil the new FUFA Women Super League trophy and express gratitude for the First Lady’s continued support of women’s football.

“I would like to offer counsel not just as a mother, but also as a grandmother,” Mrs. Museveni said. “Let us promote women’s football in a way that allows girls and women to remain true to themselves. They are created differently, and so are their societal roles. Let their experience be both enriching and empowering as they grow their football talents.”

The delegation included National Council of Sports (NCS) General Secretary Bernard Ogwel, FUFA member Rogers Mulindwa, and players Zaiana Namuleme and Josephine Ndagire from Makerere University, along with Catherine Nakiridde from Uganda Christian University.

Mrs. Museveni thanked FUFA for advancing women’s football and reaffirmed the government's commitment to its support. She revealed that the government has allocated UGX 14 billion over the last two financial years—UGX 7 billion annually—to support football development.

“As the Bible says in Luke 12:48, ‘To whom much is given, much will be required.’ We expect great outcomes from this investment,” she stated.

She also blessed the trophy and expressed hope that its tour across the country would inspire more girls and women to participate in football while developing both character and skill.

Speaking on FUFA’s behalf, Nakiwala highlighted progress in women’s football, including job creation and increased international exposure through CAF and FIFA competitions.

“Your Excellency, your support has been instrumental in elevating women’s sports in Uganda. Through your ministry, women's football has flourished, providing employment for players, coaches, referees, and administrators,” Nakiwala noted. “Our athletes are now representing Uganda proudly on the continental stage.”

Catherine Nakiridde, a 2019 league champion with UCU, also shared her gratitude:
“Football has opened new doors for girls like me. We've been empowered to dream beyond the pitch—to lead, grow, and be seen. Thanks to your unwavering support for the girl child, we now have hope, strength, and a bright future.”