Cecafa: Vision Group, NSSF inject cash in Cranes

By Norman Katende

KAMPALA - The Uganda Cranes Initiative (UCI) drive targeted at raising funds for the national soccer team has been given a sh46.5m boost from media company Vision Group and National Social Security Fund (NSSF).

The move backs efforts of raising sh200m required to put up a successful Cecafa title defence. Uganda won the regional title last year in Tanzania and is looking to retain it at home this year.

The drive is aimed at raising substantial finances with which to motivate the players towards success in the tournament.

UCI wants to increase the players' home upkeep, accommodation and public image.

Vision Group's board of directors approved the contribution of sh30m into the UCI Initiative as NSSF offered sh16.5m specifically for the Cranes kits.

The monetary contributions follow earlier efforts of 250 cartons of water from Rwenzori, a 45% full board accommodation discount  for all the entire Cranes team's stay at Riviona Hotel, sh5m from SMS Media and medical  package including allowance and standby ambulance during training and matches courtesy of Lifelink Medical Services.

The campaign has also organised a Uganda Cranes Fans Day set for this Saturday morning, where all the fans that turn up for the Lugogo training will  have a chance to interact with the players and coaches and also take their autographs as a way of building a bond  with the players.

The meet is intended to give the fans more reason to support and finance the national team.