Uganda U20 head coach Laryea Kingston has named the final 20-man squad that will represent Uganda at the CECAFA U20 Championship qualifiers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

The Hippos will compete in the regional tournament, which gets underway on September 14 and runs until September 24, 2026.

Kingston has selected a squad featuring players from the Uganda Premier League, youth setups and clubs abroad as Uganda looks to make a strong start to the competition.

The delegation will be led by FUFA Executive Committee Member Frank Ankunzire.

The squad

Goalkeepers:
Adrian Isabirye (BUL FC), Batali Igama (Lugazi FC).

Defenders:
Mimosa Yashir (University of California, USA), Kawuki Hakim (KCCA FC), Elvis Opakrwoth (St. Mary’s Kitende), Wandera Hakim (NEC FC), Steven Oyirwoth (UNC Men’s Soccer, USA), Meddy Mutamba (Busoga United FC), Gilbert Ogenrwot (SC Villa) and Mangoli Raymond (SC Villa).

Midfielders:
Amour Munogera (Vipers SC), Owino Brian (Vipers SC JT), Isma Magala (Masaka Sunshine), Genesis Odiya (NK Tabor Sezana) and Ashraf Kyakuwa (Vipers SC JT).

Forwards:
Nkoola Arafat (Vipers SC), Okello Richard (BUL FC), Joseph Ssenyondwa (AC Amager), Ssozi Derrick (Bukedea Comprehensive) and Wanyama Simon (Bukedea Comprehensive).

Kingston will be assisted by Bashir Ssemuyaba, with Stephen Billy Kiggundu serving as the goalkeeping coach. Denis Kizito is the fitness coach, while team doctor Ivan Kulika will oversee the players’ medical needs.

The technical and administrative team also includes kits manager Frank Bumpenje, team manager Brian Umony and media officer Andrew Talenga.

Uganda will be hoping the blend of experienced youth players and emerging talent can deliver a competitive campaign in Dar es Salaam as the Hippos pursue regional honours.

The CECAFA U20 Championship qualifiers run from September 14 to September 24, with Uganda among the teams seeking to progress through the regional competition.