American Football Federation of Uganda (AFFU) president Steven Okeng believes his recent election as the East Africa Confederation of American Football (EACAF) president proves that all the other East African Countries believe in the country’s approach towards the game's development.

EACAF is the administrative and controlling body for the sport in East Africa. It is a pioneering organisation dedicated to the promotion and development of American football in East Africa with the membership of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, DRC Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and most recently South Sudan.

Their mission is to nurture young talent, foster sportsmanship, and create a thriving sports culture in East Africa.

Okeng will serve as president for a three-year term (2024-2027) alongside his vice president DRC Congo’s Kibadhi Mbuka Plante, General Secretary Moses Ondeng from Kenya, Treasurer Fidelle Niyoyiya from Burundi and publicist Augustino Mwamba from Tanzania.

“This is a huge milestone for Uganda being at the center of the American Football development in East Africa and it is also proof that all the other East African Countries believe in our approach towards the game’s development,” Okeng said.

“I am honestly humbled for East Africa entrusting me with this big responsibility to guide the growth of American football in the region. It speaks volumes when two candidates step down in your favour to lead and guide them.

“I believe with the same forward-thinking approach and strong dedication; we are ready to guide the confederation towards success. Our first task is to engage the East African Sports Council to adopt American football to be played at the East African Games,” Okeng noted.

He said he would also endeavour to assist all member East African countries in affiliating with the international federation, the International Federation of American Football.

“We’ll guide this process. Once recognized by the international federation, countries can host and participate in international tournaments,” Okeng stated.