Uganda: UPDF FC ring technical changes as relegation alarm bells grow

UPDF FC have moved to shake up their technical bench after parting ways with first assistant coach Paul Kiwanuka in a decision driven by mounting Uganda Premier League relegation fears.

CLUB STATEMENT

UPDF FC confirms that First Assistant Coach Kiwanuka Paul and Defensive Coach Oweka Denis have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect.

Mudde Musa has joined the assistant coaching team, while Juma Nasur will reinforce the goalkeeping department. pic.twitter.com/msMDijaLeH

— UPDF Football Club (@UpdfFootball) February 3, 2026

Kiwanuka, fondly known as Coach Kiwa, was dismissed on Tuesday alongside defensive coach Denis Oweka, bringing a sudden end to a turbulent spell for the army side as the second round of the season gets underway next week.

The timing of the decision reflects UPDF’s alarming position in the standings. Currently 15th on the table with just 11 points with three wins , the club has struggled to find consistency, slipping into a six-match winless run that has intensified pressure on the technical team.

Kiwanuka had been promoted to first assistant coach ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, a move widely viewed as a vote of confidence and a reward for loyalty within the club’s setup.

However, the early promise failed to translate into improved results, and patience eventually wore thin.

While UPDF did not publicly outline the specific reasons behind the dismissals, their league position and form painted a clear picture of a side in distress.

In a swift response, former club captain Musa Mudde has been drafted into the technical team as assistant coach, teaming up with Alex Gitta.

Mudde’s return is expected to inject leadership, experience, and renewed belief into a squad desperately in need of direction.

With no room for error, UPDF now turn their focus to the second-round opener at home against Buhimba United Saints, the same opponents they drew 2–2 with earlier in the campaign. This time, however, the stakes are significantly higher as the army side fight for survival in the top flight.