The Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) has strongly condemned recent remarks made by Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) President, Moses Magogo, regarding sports journalists. Magogo claimed that journalists criticizing the pricing of matchday tickets enjoy free access to Namboole Stadium and further alleged that a small group of paid individuals were masquerading as advocates of fairness in journalism.
Magogo’s comments came after sports journalist Ismail Kiyonga conducted draw an ear among football fans during Uganda’s World Cup qualifier against Guinea Conakry on March 25, 2025. Fans expressed frustration over what they described as excessive ticket prices compared to neighboring countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, and Nigeria. Many argued that if Magogo justifies the pricing by citing the 2011 Uganda-Kenya game, where ordinary tickets cost 40,000 shillings, he should also acknowledge that during Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa’s tenure, FUFA relied on private funding. Today, the federation receives substantial financial support, including 10 billion shillings from State House, 17 billion from the National Council of Sports, sponsorships, and increased funding from CAF under President Patrice Motsepe, as well as FIFA grants.
In a statement issued on March 31, 2025, USPA described Magogo’s remarks as “demeaning and disrespectful” to the media fraternity. The association emphasized that sports journalists play a crucial role in informing the public, highlighting achievements, and holding sports stakeholders accountable. USPA argued that such remarks not only undermine press freedom but also create unnecessary tensions between FUFA and the media, which should ideally work together to promote the growth of Ugandan football.
USPA General Secretary, Shafik Ssenoga, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to ethical sports reporting and professional journalism. He called for mutual respect between FUFA and the media, stressing that fair criticism should not be misinterpreted as hostility. “The media is not an enemy of football; rather, it is an essential partner in its development,” Ssenoga stated, urging FUFA to embrace dialogue rather than division. USPA further revealed that it is engaging FUFA leadership to seek an amicable resolution to the issue, expressing hope for constructive discussions that will lead to a stronger working relationship between sports administrators and the press.
