Amidst a poignant and joyous assembly, Uganda’s cricket fraternity united at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Kampala on Saturday to resoundingly acknowledge the profound influence of Eng. William Kibuka Musoke on the sport. The event, conducted with both reverence and exuberance, spotlighted Eng. Musoke’s exceptional contributions to Uganda Cricket.
Notably, the occasion featured a gripping cricket clash between William’s 11 and Kabuki’s 11. Team Kabuki secured a victory by 9 wickets, skillfully chasing down Team William’s score of 190/5 (25.0/25 ov) to achieve an impressive 191/1 (18.2/25 ov).
Eng. Musoke, a symbol of dedication and foresight in cricketing circles, was lauded for his steadfast commitment and transformative role in shaping Ugandan cricket. This celebratory gathering served as a gathering point for players, officials, and cricket enthusiasts alike, offering them an opportunity to contemplate his legacy and convey appreciation for his enduring impact.
Within the ambiance brimming with nostalgia and respect, speakers passionately recounted anecdotes and paid tribute, providing a vivid portrayal of Eng. Musoke’s ceaseless endeavors to propel Uganda Cricket to unprecedented achievements. Whether through strategic initiatives, talent cultivation, or fostering the game’s essence, his influence resonated profoundly among those in attendance.
Eng. Musoke was humbled for the recognition and thanked the organizers for remembering him and other legends who got the same recognition in the recent past.
“I was surprised when they called me because my part in the game was to participate, I didn’t really mind whether there’s a benefit to come at the end…it’s just me,” Eng. Musoke said adding that he’s humbled by the gesture.
Eng. Musoke’s Enduring Impact: A Legacy of Dedication
Eng. Musoke belongs to a special generation that held cricket together during some very difficult times. A generation for most of their active days had to invest personal resources to play for the national team. They built the foundation on which the current generation has been able to scale heights as high as the World Cup.
Eng. Musoke served the Uganda Cricket Association as Chairman twice (1987 & 2007). The memorable Div. 3 win in Darwin Australia in 2007 stood out during his time as Team Manager of the National Team.
He is also the Patron and Founder of one of Uganda Cricket’s member clubs Tornado Bees and has remained active in the national local league since it was formed.
“When we do these things we don’t do them as an achievement, it’s out of the love for the game,” Eng. Musoke said adding that; “the Lugogo Cricket Oval was rebuilt with a lot of effort from myself. We also improved cricket up to the time we were challenging the national team. Then for my own club Tornado Bees, I have been an active member to make sure they keep playing up to today.”
Tributes and Testimonials: Voices of Appreciation
The gathering also featured testimonials from current and former players who spoke of Eng. Musoke’s mentorship and the indelible mark he left on their cricketing journeys. The sense of unity and shared purpose underscored the significance of commemorating his life and contributions.
Eng. Musoke’s family, visibly moved by the outpouring of affection, expressed gratitude for the recognition of their patriarch’s impact. The celebratory gathering is a beautiful tribute to a man who dedicated his life to something he truly loved. The echoes of his influence in Uganda Cricket will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come.
As the event concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of appreciation for Eng. Musoke’s enduring legacy. The celebratory gathering served not only as a moment of reflection but also as a collective commitment to carry forward his vision for the continued growth and excellence of Uganda Cricket.
In echoing his impact, Uganda’s cricket community stands united, inspired, and grateful for the indomitable spirit of Eng. Musoke that forever enriches the nation’s cricketing landscape.
Uganda Cricket’s Honoring Tradition: A Joyous Legacy
Uganda Cricket started this practice of honoring legends of the game a few years ago. The intention was, and still remains, to honor them while they are still alive—a practice Uganda Cricket know brings great joy to them and shows them that they are treasured.
Thus far, Uganda Cricket have honored seven legends. They started in 2019, when they honored Mr. A.K Lutaaya (now deceased) as he was turning 70 years old. The idea came from Kenneth Mulondo to celebrate AK’s 70th birthday. The function was a great event, bringing many old cricketers back to the game.
Having seen the success of that game, Uganda Cricket decided to hold many more in honor of the living legends that remained. And that has brought them to where they are. After A.K, they have so far honored Mr. Sam Sewagudde, Mr. Sam Walusimbi, Mr. William Kamanyi, Mr. John Nagenda (now deceased), Mr. John Nsubuga, and Mr. P.J Ndiko.
These games bring a lot of joy to the legends and to cricketers at large. There is a lot of fun on such days and so many stories
are told of good times past.
These events are made achievable through the generous support of various sponsors, including the Uganda Cricket Association, Case Medical Services, K&T Advocates, Pepsi, Aquafina, Castle Lite, Tents 4U, Absa Bank, and Kisementi Jazz.
