The Uganda Cranes will not be short of cheerers during their participation in the 32nd edition of the Total 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Egypt, June 21-July 19.
This follows Uganda Cranes official beer partners Nile Special unveiling the Cranes AFCON 2019 campaign; "We are Uganda United". The campaign that taps into sports and specifically football's ability to transcend any divides was launched at Lugogo on Thursday.
The campaign also involves an under the crown campaign promotion through which 11 lucky Cranes' fans will be flown to Egypt to watch the team live in action.
To take part in the promotion, one is required to buy a Nile Special, check under the crown and SMS the code that they find there to 8008 to enter the draw for a chance to win a ticket to Egypt.
There is also an online option at nilespecial.play.ug which doesn't require SMS.
Uganda Cranes players in a joint dance with fans during the launch of the Cranes AFCON 2019 campaign
A number of stakeholders that included NCS Acting General Secretary Patrick Ogwel and his team, FUFA's Head of Marketing Rogers Byamukama and his team, past and present Cranes players led by vice team captain Hassan Wasswa, Nile Breweries staff and renowned sports fans graced the launch which was lightened up by dance and musical performances from Ykee Benda.
Charles Uhuru was the first lucky winner to grab an air ticket to watch the Cranes in action from the first draw that was held for the audience that attended the launch. One other lucky winner walked away with a 43-inch flat screen while another a year's supply of Nile Special.
The Cranes are drawn in Group A alongside hosts Egypt, DR Congo, and Zimbabwe. They open their campaign against DR Congo on June 22 before taking on Zimbabwe four days later and end their group matches against Egypt on June 30.
Speaking to the audience during the launch, assistant captain Wasswa said the team will play better than last time out.
"We are not afraid of anyone. We have a young and hungry squad that want to prove themselves and they will do whatever it takes to succeed. It's a good platform for the younger players and every game will be a final and hard work will key," Wasswa stated.
Cranes captain Denis Onyango speaking through a social media live feed said participating in the AFCON was a great and important moment but a tough assignment that will require hard work.