Moses Magogo has re-emerged publicly after days of silence, issuing a statement congratulating the Uganda U-17 national team, the Uganda Cubs, following their historic back-to-back qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
In a brief statement released on Sunday, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations president described the qualification as a national achievement and praised the players for making the country proud.
“It’s a win for all Ugandans. Back-to-back FIFA World Cup qualification for the Uganda U17 National Boys Team — the Uganda Cubs. Congratulations, boys, for making your country proud,” Magogo said.
He also acknowledged the contribution of multiple stakeholders who supported the team’s preparation and performance throughout the qualification campaign.
“Thank you to the Government of Uganda for financial support, the schools, coaches, referees, partners, sponsors, parents, fans, media; and finally to the FUFA Excom for strategic planning and guidance. Well done also to the FUFA staff for implementation,” he added.
Magogo further reaffirmed FUFA’s commitment to ensuring the team receives adequate preparation ahead of the tournament in Qatar.
“This is a win for Ugandan football as the Uganda Cubs take the global stage for a second consecutive time. The Federation reaffirms its commitment to give the Uganda Cubs the best possible support and preparations ahead of the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. Congratulations Coach Kingston and your technical team,” he stated.
The Uganda Cubs secured qualification after a dramatic campaign that saw them overcome several African football heavyweights, including Ghana, Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire.
The latest qualification marks Uganda’s second consecutive appearance at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, underlining the country’s growing progress in youth football development.
Magogo’s statement also marked his first public communication in several days, a silence that had generated speculation on social media and within political circles.
In recent days, Magogo and his wife, former Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, have been mentioned in discussions surrounding ongoing security investigations into allegations of corruption, budgeting irregularities and illicit enrichment.
Authorities have not issued any final determination regarding the investigations, and the individuals involved have largely remained silent publicly on the matter.
Last week, sections of parliamentary offices linked to Among were reportedly sealed off during investigative activity, while security agencies also carried out operations at properties associated with her.
Against this backdrop, Magogo’s return to public communication through football messaging is being interpreted by some observers as a shift back towards sports administration amid heightened political scrutiny.
FUFA has nevertheless maintained focus on sporting achievements, with the Uganda Cubs’ qualification widely celebrated as one of Uganda’s biggest youth football milestones in recent years.