Denis Omedi and Zainah Nandede were named the 2024 Male and Female Footballers of the Year at a star-studded MTN FUFA Awards gala held at the Kampala Serena Hotel on Friday evening.
The annual ceremony, organised by the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and headline sponsor MTN, celebrated the standout performers in Ugandan football over the past season — with 16 individuals and groups recognised for their contribution to the sport.
The evening brought together key figures from across the football community, including Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put, former Cranes midfielder Hassan Wasswa, FUFA Communications Director Shawn Mubiru, and media personality Tendo Musoke. Ugandan music icon Jose Chameleone delivered a live performance to cap off the festivities.
Omedi shines after a breakout season
Denis Omedi, formerly of Kitara FC, edged out stiff competition from Patrick Jonah Kakande, Ssekiganda Ronald, Jude Ssemugabi, and Allan Okello to claim the top men’s prize.
The 2023/24 season proved to be a landmark one for the striker. Omedi played a central role in Uganda Cranes’ qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and led Kitara to a historic Stanbic Uganda Cup victory.
His audacious Rabona goal against KCCA FC in the FUFA Super 8 not only went viral but also earned nominations for both the CAF Goal of the Year and the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award.
“I thank the Almighty God, MTN Uganda, FUFA, Coach Paul Put, Brian Ssenyondo, Joshua Atugonza [Kitara FC CEO] and everyone who supported me — including my wife,” Omedi said after receiving the award.
Nandede claims surprise win
In the women’s category, Kampala Queens forward Zainah Nandede emerged as a surprise winner ahead of pre-award favourite Agnes Nabukenya. Also nominated were Shamirah Nalugya, Daisy Nakaziro, and Resty Kobusobozi.
Nandede’s influence on the pitch was clear throughout the season. She scored six goals for Kampala Queens as they secured a second-place league finish and played a key role in the Queen Cranes’ bronze medal triumph at the 2024 African Games in Ghana.
“It’s been a season of hard work, commitment, and teamwork,” said Nandede. “I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches and everyone who believed in me.”
Full list of 2024 MTN FUFA Awards winners:
Male Player of the Year
- Denis Omedi [Uganda Cranes]
Female Player of the Year
- Zainah Nandede [Kampala Queens]
Male Coach of the Year.
- Brian Ssenyondo [Uganda Cubs]
Women Football Coach of the Year.
- Ayub Khalifah [Kawempe Muslim]
FUFA Goal of the Year.
- Denis Omedi – Goal Against KCCA FC in Super 8
Upcoming Talent Award.
- James Bogere – Sunshine
Beach Soccer Player of the Year.
- Brian Nkuubi
Futsal Player of the Year.
- Iiyas Omar Omran – Kisenyi FC
FUFA Member Associations’ Award.
- Futsal Association Uganda
Fans of the Year (FUFA Competitions)
- Birangirangi Group
FUFA Presidential Award.
- Ashford Mamelodi
Fans’ Ugandan Foreign-based Player of the Year.
- Rogers Mato
Best Squad of a Particular Year.
- Uganda Cubs
MTN Media Personality of the Year.
- Male: Geoffrey Mugerwa – Salt TV
- Female- Catherine Nassali – FUFA TV
Male Best XI Category.
- Hannington Sebwalunyo (GK) Geraga Atendele, Nicholas Mwere, Hillary Mukundane, Arnold Odong, Enock Ssebagala, Patrick Jonah Kakande, Ronald Ssekiganda, Allan Okello, Denis Omedi, Jude Ssemugabi.
Female Best XI Category.
- Daisy Nakaziro(GK), Jolly Kobusinge, Samalie Nakacwa, Auki Kigongo, Shakirah Nankwanga, Zainah Nandede, Phiona Nabulime, Resty Kobusobozi, Shamirah Nalugya, Agnes Nabukenya, Sylvia Kabene.
