By Caroline.N.
Uganda has been crowned champions of the CECAFA zone in the CAF African Schools Football Championship after a dramatic 3–1 penalty shootout victory over Ethiopia in the boys’ final held at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende. The match ended goalless in normal time, prompting a tense shootout in which Uganda held their nerve to lift the regional title.
The final showcased strong defensive discipline from both sides, with neither team managing to break the deadlock despite several promising attacks. Uganda’s resilience paid off in the penalty shootout, where the young stars displayed exceptional composure and precision to secure the trophy.
Uganda also impressed in the individual awards, with striker Nabil Kajumba emerging as one of the standout performers of the tournament. His goal-scoring prowess throughout the competition earned him recognition and cemented his reputation as one of the country’s most promising young talents.
In the girls’ category, Tanzania claimed the championship title after defeating Ethiopia in a penalty shootout. Uganda’s girls finished in third place following a confident 2–0 victory over Burundi in the third-place playoff. Uganda also received the Fair Play Award, a testament to the discipline, sportsmanship and professionalism exhibited by the team throughout the competition.
For the boys’ team, the championship title means Uganda will go on to represent the CECAFA region at the continental finals of the CAF African Schools Football Championship next year. The achievement marks a major milestone for the country’s school-level football programme, reinforcing the strength of Uganda’s grassroots talent development.
Football officials hailed the victory as a reflection of Uganda’s growing investment in youth football and the increasing competitiveness of its school teams. Coaches praised the players for their teamwork, discipline and mental toughness, especially in high-pressure moments such as the final shootout.
Parents, fans and school representatives expressed pride in the young athletes, noting that the win highlights the importance of supporting sports development at the school level. They also emphasised that early exposure to high-level competition nurtures future stars for club and national teams.
Uganda’s strong showing at the tournament — including the boys’ championship title, notable individual performances, and recognition for fair play — underscores the country’s rising profile in youth football across the region. The victory is expected to inspire greater investment in school sports programmes and encourage more young players to pursue football seriously.
As preparations begin for the continental finals, the Ugandan team is expected to intensify training and build on the momentum gained from their CECAFA triumph. Their success has sparked optimism about the country’s potential to make an impact on the African stage and further strengthen Uganda’s football legacy.