Fufa, French embassy look to partnership for better prospects

KAMPALA.

For a country with hardly any international titles to speak of, mingling with football’s elite might take a while to happen for many a Ugandan footballer.

As the struggle continues on the pitch, domestic football governing body Fufa is hoping more unconventional means such as partnerships can help Ugandan football in that regard.

One such partnership is that with the French Embassy that was officially launched yesterday and will see the Cranes play against the France Military team as part of celebrations to mark to mark the Francophone Day.

“We are excited our game was picked to communicate as football is the biggest communication tool to talk to the masses. We are also pleased with the cooperation between the Ugandan government and France because as football we will benefit,” stated Moses Magogo Fufa president at a press briefing alongside the Her Excellency Stephanie Rivoal, the French Ambassador to Uganda held at Fufa House.

“We hope this partnership can open more opportunities,” added Magogo while citing France’s role in the development of several African football stars.

“It is much easier for African footballers to make it in Europe through France,” he added citing Guinea, Mali and Senegal.
“Our biggest foreign export broke through France,” he further stated in reference to late Magid Musisi who played at Stade Rennais.

The week long celebrations will see the French embassy donate sports equipment to five schools including Police Children Schools in Kibuli and Naguru as part of their partnership with Uganda Police.

“I thought long but not hard about what we share and thought of football. Many of you know (Thierry) Henry, (Antoine) Griezman,” stated the French Ambassador as questions about the prospect of a game with the French national team arose.

“It was at the back of my mind but Uganda is just coming to the front page of world football. It is difficult at the moment.

The friendly game will be able to bolster the relations between Uganda and France. It could be the foundation of very many things that may come in future and therefore I call upon the public to embrace this chance. But I don’t want to promise anything,” she explained.