Ugandans will have a direct say in the design of the next Uganda Cranes jersey after FUFA and MTN Uganda launched a nationwide competition seeking ideas from fans, designers and other creatives.
The initiative, announced on Thursday, opens up a process that has traditionally been left to manufacturers and football administrators, allowing members of the public to contribute to one of the country's most recognisable sporting symbols.
The competition comes as the Uganda Cranes prepare for upcoming continental engagements, with organisers hoping to produce a jersey that reflects the country's identity and the passion of its supporters.
Participants will be required to submit original designs online between June 22 and July 9.
The exercise is open to all Ugandans, including professional designers, students, creative groups and football supporters with innovative ideas.
After submissions close, seven finalists will be shortlisted before taking part in a three-day boot camp scheduled for July 14 to 16, where they will further develop their concepts with guidance from industry professionals.
The winning design will eventually be produced and unveiled as the next official Uganda Cranes jersey.
FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson encouraged Ugandans to embrace the opportunity, saying: "Everything we see was once an idea."
The development marks a shift towards greater public involvement in shaping the image of Uganda's national football team, whose jerseys have become an important symbol beyond the pitch.
Over the years, the Uganda Cranes jersey has undergone several redesigns while retaining colours inspired by the national flag.
The current kits prominently feature red, yellow, white and black. Red has traditionally dominated home kits, white is commonly used for away fixtures, while yellow and black have appeared in alternative and special editions, including goalkeeper jerseys.
Beyond match days, Uganda Cranes jerseys have increasingly become part of fan culture, with supporters wearing them during international tournaments, qualification campaigns and national celebrations.
The competition will award more than Shs50 million in prize money to the winner and the other finalists.
Officials said the entire journey, from the submission of ideas to the unveiling of the final jersey, will be documented before the selected design is officially adopted by the national team.