In a move that has left Kampala Queens scrambling for a creative spark, star midfielder and reigning MVP Shamirah Nalugya has bid farewell to the club, signing a one-year deal with Belarusian outfit FC Minsk Women.
Nalugya, a midfield maestro with an eye for goal, leaves the Ugandan champions after a stellar season in which she netted nine goals and delivered seven assists — a contribution that powered the club to league glory and earned her the Most Valuable Player accolade.
But now, just months after lifting silverware with Kampala Queens, Nalugya has packed her boots for Eastern Europe, joining a relatively obscure FC Minsk side preparing to battle in the upcoming UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers. It’s a bold leap — from the comfort of Uganda’s top-flight dominance to the unpredictable terrains of Belarus.
Her emotional farewell read like a chapter closing on a golden era. “Saying goodbye is never easy,” Nalugya said. “But I’m leaving with so many great memories and friendships. I’ll always look back with fondness.”
Despite the warm words, the reality for Kampala Queens is cold. Losing their top scorer and chief creator leaves a gaping hole in the midfield. Replacing her magic, vision, and work rate will be no small task.
Nalugya’s rise has been meteoric. From Kawempe Muslim to Isra Soccer Academy, then Kampala Queens, and now Belarus — her journey through Uganda’s football ranks has culminated in a European dream. Whether FC Minsk proves a stepping stone or a stumbling block remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, back home, fans are left wondering: who steps up now for Kampala Queens?
With UEFA Women’s Champions League action set for August, all eyes will be on Nalugya — can she replicate her domestic dominance on the continental stage?
