The Uganda Cranes technical bench has undergone a significant shake-up, with Fred Muhumuza officially replacing Sam Ssimbwa as assistant coach following the expiry and non-renewal of Ssimbwa’s contract.
FUFA confirmed the appointment on Sunday, December 7, as the national team jetted out for an intensive training camp in Morocco ahead of the forthcoming continental showpiece.
In a statement, the federation noted, “The delegation, led by Dr Apollo Ahimbisibwe, travelled with head coach Paul Put, assistant coach Fred Muhumuza, and the full technical and support team.”
Fresh сhapter for Muhumuza
Muhumuza joins the Cranes setup after a successful spell at Vipers SC, where he served under Belgian tactician Jacky Ivan Minnaert. Alongside John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda, he co-steered the Venoms to a remarkable league and Uganda Cup double last season. His elevation to the national team, however, instantly casts uncertainty over his future at Kitende, unless an alternative arrangement is struck.
This will not be Muhumuza’s first involvement with the national side. He was part of the Uganda Cranes backroom staff during the CHAN tournament in August, assisting then-interim coach Morley Byekwaso. Before his stint at Vipers, Muhumuza held roles at URA FC and with Tooro Province, gradually building a reputation as one of the country’s promising modern coaches.
Cranes begin Morocco camp
The Cranes have commenced an eleven-day training program in Morocco that includes two friendly matches designed to sharpen the squad before the continental finals. The camp will blend early arrivals from Kampala with foreign-based players flying directly to North Africa.
Seventeen players departed from Kampala on Sunday, with the rest expected to link up from their clubs across the globe.
The road to Morocco 🇲🇦 is set.
Presenting the Uganda Cranes squad for the #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025.
— Uganda Cranes (@UgandaCranes) December 6, 2025
Players who travelled from Kampala
Salim Omar Magoola – Richards Bay FC (South Africa)
Charles Lukwago – KCCA FC (Uganda)
Isaac Muleme – Viktoria Žižkov (Czech Republic)
Rogers Torach – Vipers SC (Uganda)
Hilary Mukundane – Vipers SC (Uganda)
Allan Okello – Vipers SC (Uganda)
Rogers Mato – FK Vardar (North Macedonia)
Ivan Ahimbisibwe – KCCA FC (Uganda)
David Owori – SC Villa (Uganda)
Bobosi Byaruhanga – Oakland Roots SC (USA)
Travis Mutyaba – CS Sfaxien (Tunisia)
Jude Ssemugabi – Jamus FC (South Sudan)
Shafik Nana Kwikiriza – KCCA FC (Uganda)
Reagan Mpande – SC Villa (Uganda)
James Bogere – Masaka Sunshine FC (Uganda)
Ronald Ssekiganda – APR FC (Rwanda)
Denis Omedi – APR FC (Rwanda)
Muhumuza’s arrival injects fresh energy and tactical brains into Paul Put’s backroom team, setting the stage for a crucial preparation phase as Uganda eyes a strong performance at the continental stage.
