Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC have been challenged to carry Uganda’s flag with pride and represent East Africa on the continental stage as they prepare for their maiden appearance at the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League in Cairo, Egypt.
The Ugandan champions were officially flagged off by FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha at a ceremony held at FUFA House in Mengo, Kampala, on Thursday, ahead of the tournament scheduled for November 1–15, 2026.
The occasion marked a significant milestone for the school-based club, which now has the opportunity to showcase its growth and compete against some of Africa’s leading women’s football teams.
Kawempe Muslim Ladies’ participation carries significance beyond the club and its school community, with the team set to represent Uganda and the wider East African region at a competition that brings together the continent’s best.
The players will be expected to rise to the occasion, demonstrate the quality of Ugandan women’s football and make a strong impression on their first appearance at the prestigious continental tournament.
Their qualification also highlights the progress of women’s football in Uganda, with Kawempe earning the opportunity to test their strength against some of the continent’s most established sides.
The team will be guided by head coach Ayub Khalifah Kiyingi, assisted by Sharifah Nantumbwe, with technical director Abby Jjuko and the wider backroom staff tasked with ensuring the players are ready for the challenge.
Richard Ochom will head the delegation, supported by chief executive officer Hamuza Waiswa and team manager Hakim Taabu.
The technical and medical team also includes goalkeeper coach Sam Kakumba, fitness coach Salim Kibirige, team doctor Justine Namalwa and safeguarding officer Jane Namale.
The squad
Kawempe will rely on a group of players eager to make their mark on the continental stage, including forwards Latifah Nakasi, Belinda Hope Nabawanuka and Cecila Apiding.
For the players, the tournament presents an opportunity to turn their domestic success into continental recognition while inspiring the next generation of girls pursuing football in Uganda.
With the flag-off complete, attention now shifts to Cairo, where Kawempe Muslim Ladies will seek to make their maiden CAF Women’s Champions League campaign a memorable chapter in the history of Ugandan women’s football.
The challenge is formidable, but the mission is clear: to represent Uganda with distinction, raise East Africa’s profile and prove that Kawempe Muslim Ladies belong among the continent’s best.