Ibrahim ‘Kizota’ Kizito, a former Uganda Cranes striker and longtime fixture in local football, has died. He was 54.
Kizito passed away on Tuesday, June 24, at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital after a period of illness, according to family and friends.
Born on March 30, 1971, Kizito’s football journey cut across some of Uganda’s biggest clubs. He played for Kampala City Council FC (1991–1992), Spear Motors, UEB until 1996, SC Villa, and Express FC in 1997. He also had a stint at Police FC.
Away from football, he was also known to have played handball during his school days in Lugogo.
In 2015, he took his career beyond Uganda’s borders, managing Rwandan top-flight side Etincelles FC. He led them to their first win of the season that year, against AS Muhanga.
News of his death has drawn tributes from across Uganda’s football community. Many shared memories and condolences on X, formerly Twitter.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) issued a statement:
“The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has learnt with deep sorrow about the death of former Uganda Cranes player Ibrahim ‘Kizota’ Kizito who passed away on Tuesday 24th June, 2025.”
KCCA FC, one of his former teams, also posted a tribute:
“We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of one of the club and country’s greats Ibrahim Kizito alias Kizota. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues he played with.”
Police FC, where he once played—and where his nephew Ryan Figo Kizito now features—shared:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former player & Ex-international, Kizito Ibrahim, fondly known as ‘Kizota.’ Mr. Kizito, uncle to our player Kizito Rayn Figo, was a true servant of the game whose passion inspired many.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Figo, family, friends & all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Kizito is expected to be laid to rest today, Wednesday, in Kikunyu, Buyega, at the home of Sheik Abudallah Aziz Ssematimba.
He leaves behind a legacy not just in club history books, but in the lives of players he mentored—including his nephew, who carries the family name and boots into the next generation.
