The American Football Federation of Uganda (AFFU) is set to make history as the national team prepares to compete in the inaugural Africa Flag 2025 tournament in Cairo, Egypt.
This marks Uganda’s official debut on the continental stage in flag football, a significant milestone for one of the more established International Federation of American Football (IFAF) members on the African continent.
Formed in 2018, AFFU has steadily built its presence and capacity, and now the country—popularly known as the Pearl of Africa—is ready to showcase its talent in the men’s competition of Africa’s first-ever IFAF-sanctioned championship held on African soil.
Over the weekend, Uganda’s squad held its final training session at the Kyambogo University Cricket Oval in Kampala before their departure. The atmosphere was intense yet optimistic as players fine-tuned their plays and strategies.
“The training has gone well so far with lots of intense practice in the different departments of the game,” said wide receiver Denis Oduke. “Competing at such a tournament will give us more exposure to the game.”
AFFU President Steven George Okeng expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and acknowledged the invaluable support behind their journey. “This trip would not be possible without the African American Football Mission, our medical partner FHNS, New Orleans Saints defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon, and the National Council of Sports,” he said.
Isaac Gabriel Otuk, founder and CEO of FHNS, reaffirmed their commitment to player safety and well-being. “The American Football Federation of Uganda is our good partner, and we appreciate the professional journey moved along with them thus far,” he noted. “We remain committed to providing the best safety and health services to the players.”
Uganda’s growing American football movement has also earned the attention and support of the country’s leadership. The Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Annet Anita Among Magogo, recently met with AFFU officials in a show of solidarity and support.
“The meeting with the Right Honorable Speaker was a milestone in our mission to establish American football as a force for youth development in Uganda,” Okeng noted. “With the support of parliament and key stakeholders, we believe Uganda can become a powerhouse in American football in Africa.”
