Pictorial: Okello, Mutakubwa, Torach Lead Uganda’s Charge in CHAN 2024 Campaign

The Uganda Cranes co-head coach Morley Byekwaso has today officially unveiled the final 25-man squad set to represent Uganda at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. The tournament, which is exclusively reserved for players active in their respective national leagues, will see Uganda making its seventh consecutive appearance, affirming the Cranes’ stature as seasoned CHAN campaigners.

The experienced Allan Okello (Vipers SC) has been named captain of the squad, a recognition of his consistent leadership and skill in midfield. He will be deputized by goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa  and defender Rogers Ochaki Torach, forming a leadership trio that blends flair, resilience, and tactical discipline.

The squad comprises 25 players:

3 Goalkeepers

8 Defenders

7 Midfielders

7 Forwards

These players were selected after rigorous preparations, including Uganda’s participation in the CHAN qualifiers—despite the Cranes having already qualified automatically by virtue of Uganda co-hosting the tournament with Kenya and Tanzania. In the qualifiers, Uganda defeated Burundi 2-0 on aggregate, providing an essential competitive platform to evaluate and sharpen the squad.

Uganda has been placed in Group C alongside:

Algeria

Niger

Guinea 

South Africa

The Cranes will kick off their campaign on 4th August 2025 with a tough opening fixture against Algeria. The group is widely considered one of the most competitive, with every match expected to test the team’s mettle.

Full Squad List:

Goalkeepers:

Denis Kiggundu

Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC) – Vice Captain

Chrispas Kusiima (KITARA FC)

Defenders:

Arnold Odong (SC Villa)

Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC)

Gideon Odong (NEC FC)

Herbert Achai (KCCA FC)

Rogers Ochaki Torach (Vipers SC) – Vice Captain

Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC)

Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC)

Midfielders:

Joseph Youngman Marvin (Vipers SC)

Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa)

Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa)

Allan Okello (VIPERS SC) –

Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC)

Enock Ssebagala (Vipers SC)

Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC)

Forwards:

Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC) 

Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC)

Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC)

Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC)

Reagan Mpande (SC Villa)

Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC)

Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC)

Morley Byekwaso will share tactical responsibilities as co-head coach, bringing his vast domestic football experience and deep understanding of the Ugandan Premier League players. His technical bench is composed of seasoned assistants, fitness experts, and medical personnel all focused on ensuring the Cranes are fully equipped for a strong showing on home soil.

With Uganda hosting part of the tournament for the first time, expectations are high. The nation has invested heavily in infrastructure and preparations, and the home crowd is expected to serve as the much-needed “12th man.”

The Uganda Cranes have never advanced past the group stage in previous CHAN editions—a statistic they will be eager to rewrite in 2024.

The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 represents a significant opportunity for Uganda’s homegrown talent to shine on a continental stage. With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned players, Uganda’s squad, led by captain Allan Okello, will be aiming to deliver a memorable performance and perhaps even challenge for the trophy.

Fixtures to Watch:

August 4: Uganda vs Algeria

Subsequent matches: Against Niger, Guinea, and South Africa

Uganda will be hoping to capitalize on home advantage and strong local league form to make history in this edition of CHAN.

For updates on match fixtures, team news, and fan engagement activities, follow FUFA and the Uganda Cranes official social media platforms.