Lugazi FC overhauls technical team after poor start to UPL season

A disappointing start to the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League season has prompted Lugazi Football Club to make sweeping changes to its technical bench.

The club has struggled in the opening 11 fixtures, managing just two wins, four draws, and five losses. With only 10 points, Lugazi sit 14th on the 16-team table, dangerously close to the relegation zone.

On Monday, December 22, the club dismissed its entire coaching staff following the poor run of results.

Co-coaches Francis Mugerwa and Steven Bogere were relieved of their duties, along with assistant coach Gerald Efiti, goalkeeping coach Kizza Adam, statistician Alex Mugabi, and team doctor Jude Ssempijja.

Three days later, Lugazi moved swiftly to appoint Simon Peter Mugerwa as the new head coach on a one-year contract.

Veteran tactician and former international Robert Ssekweyama was named his assistant. The new technical team was officially unveiled on Christmas Day, December 25.

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Peter Mugerwa as the head coach of our senior men’s team with immediate effect. Welcome to the leaders, Simon Peter Mugerwa and Robert Ssekweyama,” read a statement from the club.

Mugerwa brings vast experience to Lugazi, having previously coached Police FC, SC Villa, Soltilo Bright Stars, Proline FC, and Fire Masters. He is also renowned for his success in the Buganda Masaza Cup, where he has managed Buddu, Bulemeezi, Ssingo, Busiro, and most recently Kyaggwe.

His coaching career began in school football, with stints at Real College Busunju, Kakungulu Memorial School, Masaka Secondary School, and Buddo Secondary School. Most recently, he served as head coach of Mbarara City before departing in November 2025.

Mugerwa is also remembered for his time at Police FC, where he guided the club from the second division to the Uganda Premier League in just one season, before parting ways with the Cops in April 2025.