Ugandan football has been plunged into deep mourning following the death of Polly Ouma, one of the most revered figures the game has ever produced. Ouma passed away at Nsambya Hospital at the age of 83, bringing to a close a life devoted almost entirely to the growth and progress of football in the country.
Few individuals have influenced Ugandan football across as many levels as Ouma. From his early days as a determined striker to his later roles as a respected coach and administrator, his journey mirrored the evolution of the sport itself.
Born in 1942, Ouma carved out a distinguished playing career with the Uganda Cranes, operating as a centre forward renowned for his work ethic, reliability and leadership. He represented the national team between 1968 and 1978, a decade in which he became a symbol of commitment during a challenging era for Ugandan football.
His consistency earned him continental recognition, featuring for Uganda at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1974 and again in 1976. Competing against Africa’s elite, Ouma stood tall as one of the country’s most dependable performers of his generation.
After hanging up his boots, Ouma seamlessly transitioned into coaching, driven by a deep desire to nurture the game that had shaped his life. His most impactful chapter came with the Uganda Cranes, whom he led as head coach from 1988 to 1994.
That period remains etched in national memory. In 1989, Ouma masterminded Uganda’s CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup triumph in Nairobi, ending a 28-year drought for regional silverware. The victory was more than a trophy; it marked a revival of pride and belief. He followed it up a year later by successfully defending the title in Tanzania, firmly re-establishing Uganda as a regional force.
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim mourns Uganda Cranes AFCON Legend Polly Ouma
It is with profound sorrow that the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) announces the passing of our legendary former Uganda Cranes player and Head Coach Polly Ouma.
A stalwart… pic.twitter.com/M3fCSgwKT1
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) December 30, 2025
Beyond trophies, Ouma’s true strength lay in mentorship. He played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of Uganda’s most iconic footballers, including Majid Musisi, Paul Hasule and Jackson Mayanja. Those who passed through his hands often spoke of his emphasis on discipline, mental strength and self-belief, values that endured long after their playing days.
His club career was equally impactful. In 1987, Ouma guided SC Villa to their first-ever CECAFA Club Championship crown, a landmark achievement that underlined his tactical intelligence and progressive approach to the game.
Ouma’s service did not end on the touchline. He later moved into football administration, serving as FUFA vice president between 2005 and 2009 under Dr Lawrence Mulindwa. During this time, he contributed to key structural and developmental decisions at a crucial moment for Ugandan football.
From the frontline of attack to the dugout and boardroom, Polly Ouma gave everything to the sport. His passing leaves a void that words can scarcely fill, but his influence lives on through the players he shaped, the teams he transformed and the standards he set.
Ugandan football has lost not just a former striker, coach or administrator, but a custodian of its soul.
