KCCA Brazilian player Joao Gabriel Esteves Cardoso moves to control the ball during a soccer match recently. Photo/ John Batanudde
The tragic and mysterious death of Vipers SC forward Abubakar Lawal left the football fraternity in shock.
The 29-year-old Nigerian reportedly fell from a third-floor balcony at Voicemall Shopping Arcade, where he had gone to visit a Tanzanian friend. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
His remains were later flown back home for a dignified burial, but the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing continue to raise more questions than answers. Nigerian international Ahmed Musa was among the notable voices urging Ugandan authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.
Yet, despite this tragic incident, international players who have made Uganda their home paint a different picture of life in the Pearl of Africa.
A warm welcome, a new home
For many foreign athletes, Uganda has been nothing short of welcoming. Brazilian forward João Gabriel Esteves Cardoso, who joined KCCA Football Club (FC) in July 2023, has embraced life in Kampala with open arms.
Kenyan national Michael Makiadi plays for Nam Blazers. PHOTO/JOHN BATANUDD
The 23-year-old, who previously played for Flamengo's U17 and U20 sides before a brief stint in Germany with FCA Darmstadt, finds Uganda surprisingly similar to his home country.
"I love it here. There is no big difference from Brazil," Gabriel says. "The sunshine, the food, and the overall vibe make it easy for me to adapt."
Gabriel was among the foreign players signed during Portuguese coach Sergio Traguil's reign at KCCA. Though Traguil left the club, Gabriel remained, signing a contract that runs until the end of the current season. His commitment to life in Uganda is evident, he has since moved his wife and son to Kampala, a clear sign of his desire to stay longer.
Playing time under coach Abdallah Mubiru has been limited, but Gabriel’s silky playing style and off-pitch charisma have made him a fan favorite. Supporters frequently call on Mubiru to give the Brazilian more minutes, a testament to the bond he has formed with the KCCA faithful.
Away from the pitch, Gabriel prefers a laid-back lifestyle, spending his free time watching basketball and volleyball. "I’m not the kind that likes to go out a lot," he says. "But I enjoy music, good food, and an occasional shopping trip. From the first day I arrived, I felt welcomed, and Uganda has felt like home ever since."
Affordability and comfort
Many foreign athletes in Uganda cite affordability as a major reason they have settled comfortably. Uganda's cost of living is significantly lower than in many African nations, with rent, food, and transportation expenses being relatively cheap. According to a 2024 report by Numbeo, the cost of living in Uganda is about 60 percent lower than in Angola and 40 percent lower than in Kenya.
KCCA’s Yian Gatbel (R) is a Sudanese national. PHOTO/ JOHN BATANUDDE
Kenyan basketball star Michael Makiadi, who plays for the Namuwongo Blazers in the National Basketball League, finds Uganda cheaper compared to other countries he has played in.
"Life in Uganda is generally more affordable," Makiadi says. "It is a free and friendly country where people focus on their own business."
Makiadi first arrived in Uganda in 2009 on a short-term contract with Makerere Heaters. He was scouted by Salim Ali, a fellow Kenyan, and has since had stints with KIU Titans, Power, and Rwandan side Patriots before returning to Uganda.
"Of course, I get homesick sometimes, but Uganda has become my second home," Makiadi admits. "I love watching rugby, so you will often find me at rugby games when I am not playing basketball. I also enjoy spending time at the beach with friends."
Angolan winger Etienne Katenga, who plays for KCCA, was also drawn to Uganda by its affordability compared to his home country.
"The people here are warm and welcoming, and life is quite normal. But in Angola, the cost of living is very high," he explains.
Katenga has found comfort in Uganda, thanks to KCCA’s support. "The club takes care of everything. They rented a house for me in a safe environment and even provided a driver."
With his contract set to expire in June, Katenga hopes to extend his stay in Uganda.
A second home for many
Uganda has become a regional sports hub, with more than 200 foreign athletes currently playing in the Uganda Premier League, National Basketball League, and volleyball leagues. The country's sports scene continues to attract talent, thanks to competitive wages and a growing fan base.
Young South Sudanese footballer Yian Gatbel is among the many foreign players who now call Uganda home.
Having arrived in Uganda in 2013, Gatbel has spent most of his life in the country. He recently joined KCCA's junior team and made a name for himself by finishing as the top scorer in the Fufa Juniors League with 13 goals in 2024. His impressive performances earned him a promotion to the senior team.
"Uganda is a great country with hospitable people," says Gatbel. "Everyone is welcoming, and I have fit in very well."
Gatbel, who studies at MATT Abacus Business School while pursuing his ACCA Level 1, only visits South Sudan occasionally. "Most of my friends are here in Uganda. I feel safe and at home."
KCCA FC’s Etienne Katenga comes from the Democratic Republic of Congo. PHOTO/JOHN BATANUDDE
Another South Sudanese athlete, Daniel Gum Malil, came to Uganda in 2019 to play volleyball. Currently with Sport-S, Malil enjoys life in Uganda and considers it his second home.
"I had heard that Uganda was a good place to live, and my experience has confirmed it," he says.
Malil splits his time between Kampala and Juba, balancing his career and family life.
A HAVEN FOR ATHLETES
Despite isolated incidents such as Lawal’s tragic passing, most international athletes in Uganda feel safe and at ease. Uganda has been ranked as one of the safest countries in Africa, with the 2023 Global Peace Index placing it ninth on the continent. The country’s sports industry continues to attract talent from across the region, providing them opportunities to thrive professionally and personally. With more than 30 foreign footballers playing in the Uganda Premier League and a significant number in basketball and volleyball, Uganda remains an attractive destination for athletes. For many, Uganda is more than just a workplace; it is home.
