One thing was unmistakable on Premier League Championship Sunday, May 24: if you were not wearing an Arsenal jersey, you looked out of place. Across towns, trading centres, and cities throughout Uganda, the red and white of Arsenal dominated the streets as fans celebrated the club’s long-awaited English Premier League triumph after 22 years.
From brand-new kits to treasured retro jerseys, Arsenal colours flooded public spaces as supporters marked a moment many had waited decades to witness. Reports indicated that football shops ran out of Arsenal jerseys as demand surged during the celebrations.
The title celebrations capped off a week of excitement and anticipation, with fans transforming the final day of the season into what felt like a national holiday. Kampala, Mbarara, Hoima, Mbale, Soroti, and several other towns hosted spontaneous parades, processions, and watch parties filled with music, chants, and nonstop celebration.
In Kampala, festivities erupted at multiple venues, but the biggest celebration unfolded at Millennium Grounds in Lugogo during an event organised by Guinness, the official beer partner of the Premier League. Thousands of supporters gathered for an experience that blended football, entertainment, music, and art.
Hours before the 6 PM kick-off, fans had already filled the venue, proudly dressed in Arsenal jerseys while waving scarves and singing club anthems. The atmosphere was electric as supporters shared drinks, memories, and emotions built up over two decades of waiting.
“This is our day. We’ve waited for this trophy for over 20 years and the patience has finally paid off,” said Patience Asio, an Arsenal supporter for 28 years.
Another fan, Jeff Musinguzi, described the victory as redemption after years of ridicule from rival supporters.
“For many seasons people called us bridesmaids. After years of being nearly men, now we finally have something to say during football banter,” he remarked.
The loudest moment of the evening came when Arsenal F.C. lifted the Premier League trophy, sparking wild celebrations throughout the venue. Fans packed around the Guinness Matchday Truck and giant viewing screens spread across the grounds to ensure everyone shared in the historic moment.
Guinness Brand Manager Denise Paula Nazzinda said the overwhelming turnout reflected Ugandans’ deep passion for the Premier League and praised supporters for creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
“Whether you’re an Arsenal fan or not, this has been an incredible season. It was unpredictable until the very last week, and the response we’ve seen today has been amazing. This was a sold-out event, and we look forward to creating even bigger experiences next season,” she said.
Beyond football, the event also embraced creativity and culture. A paint-and-sip session opened the festivities, while singer Elijah Kitaka delivered a performance fused with fashion as models showcased recycled outfits designed by Ekikumba Fusion.
Nazzinda said the mix of music, fashion, and football reflected Guinness’ commitment to bringing people together through shared cultural experiences.
The entertainment continued late into the night as Fik Fameica, himself an Arsenal supporter, thrilled revelers while dressed in his “Champion Bwoy” jersey. Fans sang along while waving scarves and jerseys in celebration of the club’s triumph.
King Saha later closed the show with an energetic performance that kept supporters dancing deep into the night, alongside performances from some of Kampala’s top DJs.
For Arsenal fans across Uganda, the celebrations were more than just a football party. They were the release of 22 years of hope, frustration, loyalty, and belief — finally rewarded with Premier League glory.
