KAMPALA, March 5, 2025 –– The Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation [SACCO] owned by the Former Footballers Initiative [FFI], an association of retired footballers in Uganda, raised over Shs 50 million in both cash and pledges during a fundraiser held on Saturday.
The event, which took place at Mengo SS in Bukesa, Kampala, was honoured by the presence of the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
Kaziimba, a former footballer and passionate supporter of the UK’s Arsenal FC, spoke at the fundraiser, urging various institutions in the country to offer support to retired footballers. He emphasised that these retirees are role models for future generations.
“It is very important to remember those who have done great things for our country, and this responsibility lies with both the church and the government, as most of these former footballers are forgotten once they retire,” he said.
The Minister of Works, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, also attended the event as the patron of FFI. He noted that many former footballers are facing significant hardships and, therefore, need ongoing support.
The fundraiser began with a mass at St. John’s Chapel, where prayers were offered for football players, administrators, and fans who have passed away.
Other notable attendees included the Deputy CEO of FUFA, Humphrey Mandu, and the Minister of Kampala, Hajjati Minsa Kabanda. During the event, the Parliamentary football team triumphed over FFI, winning 3–1.
Former footballers involved in the event played for clubs such as Coffee FC, Lint FC, Mbale Heroes, Express FC, SC Villa, UCB FC, Mbarara FC, Water FC, UEB, ATM, Nytil, Tobacco, Bell, Scoul, and KCC (KCCA), among others.
https://thecooperator.news/joy-as-former-football-hold-gala-launch-cooperative-to-fight-poverty/
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