Transition in University Sports as AUUS Heads to the Polls

The Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) is preparing for its highly anticipated Executive Committee elections for the 2025–2029 term, a process that is expected to usher in a new wave of leadership for the body charged with overseeing and promoting university sports across the country.

The elections are scheduled for September 26, 2025, at Uganda Christian University in Mukono, according to a circular signed by AUUS General Secretary Patrick Ssebuliba.

Leadership Transition

This election marks an important turning point for AUUS, especially as long-serving president Penninah Aligawesa Kabenge bows out from elective office. Kabenge, who is now retired as a tutor, will not contest for any position but will continue serving as an ex-officio member of the executive, in line with the amended constitution.

Her departure paves the way for new faces to take up the mantle of leadership in guiding AUUS through the next four years.

Positions Up for Grabs

The Executive Committee elections will feature a variety of key positions, including:

President (restricted to sports tutors who have previously served on the executive)

1st Vice President Vice President Technical

General Secretary

Assistant General Secretary

Treasurer

Two student representatives (one male, one female)

Five zonal representatives (only open to sports tutors)

Two representatives of the Deans of Students (ensuring gender balance)

Contestants So Far

Among the aspirants who have already expressed interest are:

George Wagoogo, contesting for the presidency

Martha Soigi, vying for the position of 1st Vice President

Patrick Ssebuliba, seeking re-election as General Secretary

Ekon Brenda, eyeing the position of Assistant General Secretary 

These names set the tone for what promises to be a competitive electoral race, with more candidates expected to be unveiled in the coming days.

Nomination and Election Procedures

AUUS has outlined strict nomination guidelines to safeguard fairness and accountability:

All nominations must be written on official university letterheads and signed by the candidate’s Head of Department or another senior authority.

Letters must be addressed to the AUUS General Secretary and delivered at least one week before election day.

Each elective position will be decided in separate elections.

Student representatives and Deans of Students’ representatives will be nominated and elected on the day of the elections.

Eligibility rules further require that:

Only institutions in good financial standing with AUUS may field candidates.

Each institution may present only one candidate.

Candidates may contest a maximum of two positions but can only hold one if elected.

Proof of financial clearance must accompany each nomination.

Why the Elections Are Critical

The AUUS has established itself as a vital platform for identifying and nurturing young sports talent in Uganda. Through its programs, university athletes have risen to compete at both national and international levels, including the prestigious World University Games under the International University Sports Federation (FISU).

Beyond athletics, AUUS is a champion of discipline, leadership, and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for male and female student-athletes. Observers point out that the next executive will inherit critical tasks, including:

Expanding funding and partnerships. Improving sports infrastructure within universities.

Aligning university sports with the National Council of Sports (NCS) development agenda.

A Call for Participation

Speaking ahead of the elections, AUUS General Secretary Patrick Ssebuliba underscored the importance of institutional commitment:

“These elections are not just about leadership but about setting a strong foundation for the growth of university sports in Uganda. We call upon all institutions to prepare their candidates in time and ensure compliance with the nomination guidelines.”

With just days to go, anticipation is growing within the university sports fraternity. The outcome of the Mukono elections will not only determine AUUS’s next leadership but also set the tone for how university sports will evolve over the next four years—shaping both athletes and the institutions they represent.