The Head Coach of Uganda’s U17 Men’s National Team, Laryea Kingston, has named his final 23-man squad for the CECAFA U17 AFCON Zonal Qualifiers, set to take place in Ethiopia from November 15 to December 2, 2025.
The final selection follows weeks of intensive residential training at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru and additional sessions in Kampala. The reigning champions, Uganda Cubs, will compete in Group B alongside Tanzania, Burundi, Sudan, and Djibouti, with all fixtures scheduled at Dire Dawa Stadium.
Uganda will open their campaign against Burundi on November 15, followed by games against Sudan on November 18, Tanzania on November 21, and Djibouti on November 27.
Coach Kingston expressed optimism about his team’s readiness for the regional challenge, noting that the scouting process had produced a highly talented group.
“It has been good so far, and we have managed to put something together. The regional scouts did a marvellous job and brought in a lot of quality players. We have so much talent in this group,” he said.
He added that the team’s final training sessions before departure demonstrated strong signs of readiness.
“Our last training session before travelling has been amazing. Everybody looks very sharp—from the warm-up to the technical drills and the game situations. I have so much confidence in the team. They are performing very well.”
Kingston emphasized that the team’s goal is clear: to qualify for the next stage of the tournament.
“Our expectation in this competition is to make sure we qualify. We are going to take it a game at a time, but we are looking forward to a good tournament and getting the first three points against Burundi.”
FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson commended the players for their commitment and reminded them of the pride that comes with representing the nation.
“You are here not as individuals but as Uganda. My appeal is that you give your best and listen to the coaches because Ugandans will be watching. You are the future of Uganda and the future Uganda Cranes,” he said.
Watson also assured the players of FUFA’s continued support beyond the tournament.
“At FUFA, we shall support you because we are not only looking at this tournament but also future competitions. Your performance will determine how far you go, and we strongly believe you are in the right place.”
The Uganda Cubs are set to depart Entebbe International Airport for Ethiopia today, November 11, 2025.
Uganda Cubs CECAFA Schedule
Burundi vs Uganda – November 15, 2025
Sudan vs Uganda – November 18, 2025
Uganda vs Tanzania – November 21, 2025
Uganda vs Djibouti – November 27, 2025
Uganda Cubs Final Squad
Goalkeepers: Expedito Adrian Ssemugera (Soltilo Bright Stars JT), Ashraf Lukyamuzi (KCCA FC SA), Richard Mukisa (NEC JT)
Defenders: Shakur Ngobi (Greenlight Islamic School), Travor Mubiru (Vipers JT), Abud Shafikie Ukasha (KCCA FC SA), Ibrahim Waita (Buddo SS), Joseph Langol (Paorinher SA), Eze Kombi (Amus College), Enock Ssali Mwesigwa (Volf SA), Hilal Ajiga (Amus College)
Midfielders: Henry Muhoozi (Amus College), Arnold Kayemba (El Cambio), Ashraf Kyakuwa (Vipers JT), 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 SA), 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 (Media Officer), Senfuka Patrick (Kits Man), Tumusiime Vincent (Local Safeguarding Officer)
