CECAFA U-17: Uganda departs, fuelled by Kingston’s high hopes

Uganda’s Men’s Youth Team head coach Laryea Kingston has announced the final travelling squad for the CECAFA U17 AFCON Zonal Qualifiers, set to kick off in Ethiopia this Saturday.

The 23-man squad was selected from players who have been undergoing intensive residential training at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru and in Kampala.

In the tournament scheduled from 15th November to 2nd December 2025, defending champions Uganda are drawn in Group B alongside Tanzania, Burundi, Sudan, and Djibouti. Uganda will open their campaign against Burundi on 15th November, before facing Sudan on 18th November and Tanzania on 21st November.

After a six-day break, the Cubs will close the group stage against Djibouti on 27th November. All matches will be played at Dire Dawa Stadium.

Kingston expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness: “It has been a good preparation period, and we have managed to assemble a strong team. The regional scouts did a marvellous job bringing in talented players. There is so much quality in this group.”

Reflecting on the final training sessions, Kingston added: “Our last session before departure has been excellent. Everyone looks sharp—from warm-ups to technical drills and game simulations. I have full confidence in the team. They are performing exceptionally well.”

He emphasised the team’s objective for the tournament: “Our main goal is to qualify. We will take it one game at a time, but we are looking forward to a strong tournament and securing the first three points against Burundi.”
FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson also commended the team’s preparation:

“Thank you for the impressive work in training. I’ve watched your sessions and am very impressed with your energy and God-given talent. Maintaining this level will deliver good results for Uganda.”

Watson reminded the players of their responsibility: “You are here not just as individuals but representing Uganda. Give your best, listen to your coaches, and remember that Ugandans are watching. You are the future of Uganda and the Uganda Cranes.”

He further pledged FUFA’s continued support: “We are not only focused on this tournament but also future competitions. Your performance will determine how far you go, but we believe you are in the right place.”

The Uganda contingent will depart Entebbe International Airport for Ethiopia early on 11th November 2025.

Uganda Cubs CECAFA Schedule

Burundi vs Uganda – 15th November 2025
Sudan vs Uganda – 18th November 2025
Uganda vs Tanzania – 21st November 2025
Uganda vs Djibouti – 27th November 2025

Uganda Cubs Squad

Goalkeepers: Expedito Adrian Ssemugera (Soltilo Bright Stars Junior Team), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC SA), Richard Mukisa (NEC Junior Team).

Defenders: Shakur Ngobi (Greenlight Islamic School), Travor Mubiru (Vipers Junior Team), Abud Shafikie Ukasha (KCCA FC SA), Ibrahim Waita (Buddo SS), Joseph Langol (Paorinher Soccer Academy), Eze Kombi (Amus College School), Enock Ssali Mwesigwa (Volf Soccer Academy), Hilal Ajiga (Amus College School).

Midfielders: Henry Muhoozi (Amus College School), Arnold Kayemba (El Cambio), Ashraf Kyakuwa (Vipers Junior Team), Abdul Shakur Babi (Buddo SS), Lorian Kisakye Lwesibawa (Rays of Grace), Nicholas Kawooya (Buddo SS), Musa Ssuna (Amus College), Brian Olwa (Edgars Youth Program)

Strikers: Ismail Fahad (KCCA FC), Owen Mukisa (Seth Soccer Academy), Eric Isabirye (Rays of Grace), Thomas Ogema (KCCA FC)

Officials

Magoola Issa Kakaire – Leader of Delegation
Laryea Kingston – Head Coach
Bengo Steven – Assistant Coach
Ibrahim Juma Sadam – Assistant Coach
Mugabi Yasin – Goalkeeping Coach
Laktabai Edwin Kibet – Performance Coach
Oryem Jolly Joe Innocent – Team Doctor
Kebba Rashid – Physiotherapist
Katende Jerome Raymond – Team Manager
Byamukama Aloysius – Team Media Officer
Senfuka Patrick – Kits Man
Tumusiime Vincent – Local Safeguarding Officer