Parliament hails Uganda Cranes’ historic CHAN 2024 performance

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Parliament has commended the Uganda Cranes for their historic performance at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where the team reached the quarterfinals for the first time.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, the state minister for sports, Peter Ogwang, moved a motion for a resolution of Parliament to pay glowing tribute to the national football team. The motion, seconded by Eng. Moses Magogo (Budiope East, NRM), who serves as president of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), was unanimously adopted.

The 2024 CHAN tournament was co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania under the joint Pamoja bid from August 2 to 30, 2025. Nineteen African countries participated, with Uganda’s matches played at the newly renovated Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Uganda was drawn into Group C alongside Niger, Algeria, and South Africa. The Cranes defied expectations, topping the group and advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time in seven attempts. Although they were eliminated by defending champions Senegal, their spirited display won admiration across the continent.



Ogwang praised the team’s resilience, determination, and teamwork, saying they had “carried the Ugandan flag high” and brought pride to the nation. He noted that President Yoweri Museveni played a vital role by approving the East African bid to host the tournament, supporting the renovation of Namboole Stadium, and pledging sh1.2 billion in incentives for every win. He also credited the President for creating a stable environment that enabled the team’s success.

The minister further recognized the contribution of First Lady and education minister Janet Kataaha Museveni, who chaired the Local Organizing Committee and provided strategic leadership to ensure Uganda’s successful co-hosting of the tournament. Her personal presence at Namboole, he added, boosted the morale of both players and fans.

Ogwang applauded Speaker Anita Annet Among for championing reforms in sports legislation, increasing funding for infrastructure and talent development, and offering personal financial support to the Cranes during the tournament.

Tribute was extended to FUFA and the Local Organizing Committee for logistical and training support, as well as to the thousands of Ugandan fans whose passionate turnout created a strong home advantage. More than 34,000 supporters packed the stadium and fan zones, with many purchasing tickets and team jerseys.

“Parliament has always recognized Ugandans who excel in various fields, and the Uganda Cranes’ achievement at CHAN 2024 deserves our deepest appreciation,” Ogwang told MPs.

In the public gallery were Uganda Cranes players, coaches, managers, and FUFA officials, who received a standing ovation from legislators.

Magogo highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring the success of the tournament, saying East Africa had proven its ability to host a continental football competition for the first time. He, however, noted challenges that remain, including better stadium access control and security for fans traveling to and from matches.

Magogo expressed concern that many local football clubs are struggling financially, a situation that undermines the welfare of players. He noted that in several countries, governments provide direct support to clubs to ensure their sustainability. He urged Uganda to strengthen funding mechanisms for local clubs, especially those currently relying on private individuals for survival.

Among, the Speaker of Parliament, asked Parliament to accept Magogo’s call to have government fund local football club. MPs noted that Uganda’s hosting of CHAN 2024 and the Cranes’ record-breaking performance marked a turning point for national football and East African sports cooperation.