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David GOMBE
Former Uganda Cranes midfielder Sulaiman Mike Mutyaba along with other Ex-footballers have formed a new body named Uganda Footballers Federation (UFF).
Mutyaba unveiled the body at Jevine Hotel on Tuesday where he stated that they are not opposing the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) but their aim is to unity former footballers under one umbrella.
“This is not about opposing FUFA. We already have several unions that bring together former players, often organized along different generations.”
“Our intention is to come under one umbrella organization that unites all former and active players, men and women with the aim of supporting those who are currently in need and creating opportunities for the underprivileged among us.” Said Mutyaba as quoted by Sports Nation Uganda
Mutyaba added that federation will focus on the welfare of players and called upon the government to actively involve former players in preparation for the upcoming AFCON tournament to be hosted in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
“When clubs go for over six months without paying players, it shows there are deeper challenges that need urgent attention. We believe this association can help address many of these problems.”
“We also believe former players should be included in the AFCON organising structures. This would help identify meaningful roles for them, such as tournament sensitisation, technical support, guiding visitors, volunteering, and other support roles.” Added Mutyaba
The newly founded federation will also form SACCOs and engage government to access support structures similar to those extended to other sectors including the Music and Bloggers unions.