KAMPALA, Uganda — The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and MTN Uganda have launched a nationwide campaign inviting Ugandans to design the next official Uganda Cranes jersey, with the winning designer set to walk away with Shs50 million and the opportunity to see their creation worn by the national team.
The campaign, dubbed “Free Your Fayaaa – Tulage Waaka,” was unveiled on Wednesday at MTN Uganda headquarters in Kampala and seeks to give football fans a direct role in shaping one of the country’s most recognizable sporting symbols.
Under the competition, Ugandans will be able to submit their jersey designs through the MTN More platform between June 22 and July 9. Seven finalists will be selected for a mentorship bootcamp, where they will work with industry experts before the overall winner is chosen.
Speaking at the launch, Justus Mugisha, FUFA First Vice President, said the initiative was inspired by a desire to place supporters at the centre of the Uganda Cranes brand.
“Together with our partner MTN Uganda, we thought it wise that the jersey, which is also the greatest symbol of the Uganda Cranes, should be designed by the fans themselves,” Mugisha said.
He noted that football supporters have always been at the heart of the national team’s success and deserve an opportunity to contribute to the identity of the team beyond cheering from the stands.
The winning design is expected to influence the official Uganda Cranes kit as the country prepares for future international competitions, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Uganda will co-host alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
John Paul Okwi, representing MTN Uganda, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to empowering creativity and giving Ugandans opportunities to showcase their talent on a national stage.
“This campaign is about unleashing the creativity of Ugandans and giving fans a chance to leave a lasting mark on the Uganda Cranes. We believe the best ideas can come from anywhere, and this is an opportunity for supporters to shape the future of our national team’s identity,” he said.
Former Uganda Cranes international and current FUFA International Football Competitions Manager Patrick Ntege praised the partnership between FUFA and MTN Uganda, saying it demonstrates a commitment to involving different stakeholders in the development of Ugandan football.
“I am an ex-international footballer who played for the Uganda Cranes during those days. I want to thank my bosses for involving former players in management and coaching. As the Uganda Cranes, we appreciate MTN Uganda for having come on board,” Ntege said.
The campaign comes months after Uganda’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations jersey generated debate among football fans, with some supporters criticizing its design and calling for greater public involvement in future kit selections.
Many fans have welcomed the new initiative, arguing that it provides an opportunity to create a jersey that better reflects Uganda’s culture, heritage and football passion.
The competition is expected to attract entries from designers, artists, students and football enthusiasts from across the country, with organizers hoping it will produce a jersey capable of inspiring both players and supporters.
For FUFA and MTN Uganda, the campaign represents more than a design contest—it is an effort to strengthen the connection between the Uganda Cranes and the millions of fans who proudly wear the national colours.
The grand prize winner will receive Shs50 million, national recognition and the chance to have their design become part of Uganda’s football history.