The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has issued a warning to the public regarding the unauthorised sale and importation of sports merchandise featuring FUFA branding.
In a statement released on Thursday, the governing body for local football expressed concern over reports of illegal importation, manufacturing, distribution, and sale of counterfeit sports goods, clothing, and apparel that bear its trademarks.
FUFA noted that it had not granted permission to anyone to sell these products, indicating that those who are doing so are acting unlawfully.
"This violates national laws and infringes on FUFA's rights. FUFA has not authorized any individual, group, or company to sell FUFA sports merchandise on its behalf," FUFA stated.
The body warned that buying counterfeit Uganda Cranes merchandise supports illegal activities and cautioned the public against participating in such actions.
FUFA also indicated that it would take legal action against anyone involved in the purchase of counterfeit goods.
"Individuals found importing, manufacturing, distributing, producing, selling or for sale, displaying, wearing, or aiding in the sale of counterfeit merchandise or any branded Uganda
Cranes items without authorization of FUFA, will be held accountable,"
FUFA maintained that genuine Cranes jerseys are available exclusively at its merchandise shop in Mengo.
"To ensure authenticity, buy Uganda Cranes merchandise exclusively from: FUFA Merchandise Shop, Mengo Report counterfeits to FUFA or relevant authorities." FUFA said.
The latest development comes just a day before the Uganda Cranes face South Sudan in an AFCON qualifying match at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
FUFA's warning comes as a blow for Ugandans who depend on selling Cranes merchandise on match days outside the Namboole stadium for their income.