A social media post by Next Media editor and National Basketball League (NBL) umpire Priscilla Nakayenze has led to the donation of 20 brand-new referee kits to Uganda’s basketball officials, following a swift response from local sportswear manufacturer Gofere.
Nakayenze, who regularly officiates in Uganda’s top basketball divisions, took to TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) to share a lighthearted video showcasing referees staying trendy in their officiating gear.
“Through a content video on my TikTok #JustBeingAReferee and later shared it on my X-handle. Gofere responded,” Nakayenze explained.
The post quickly gained attention within the local sports community, drawing a positive reaction from Gofere, a brand known for outfitting Uganda’s national teams, including the Gazelles.
“Gofere responded, saying, ‘Gofere Referee looks great on you, we shall send you a gift pack this coming June for your outdoor games.’ That’s how I made the connection, and they promised and delivered this August due to flight delays,” she added.
The donation comprises 20 referee kits, designed in blue and black and co-branded with the logos of the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) and Gofere.
The kits are intended for referees officiating in the National Basketball League(NBL).
“Upon reaching out to me and appreciating that I look good in the Gofere shirt, they told me they were gifting NBL referees. We are 20 who officiate the National League, and since they partner with the Federation, it made perfect sense,” Nakayenze said.
The delivery of the kits was completed on 5th August 2025, marking a significant step in improving the visibility and morale of Uganda’s basketball officials.
“Well, I wouldn’t hold my excitement. From a small simple tweet I made, it turned into a meaningful connection, and I was gifted a new kit of 20 T-shirts along with my fellow NBL referees,” Nakayenze said.
She also expressed gratitude to FUBA President Nasser Sserunjogi for his immediate support.
“I am grateful to the Federation President Mr. Nasser Sserunjogi, who gave his consent when I informed him about the good news from Gofere,” she said.
Nakayenze further commended Gofere’s dedication, highlighting the efforts of Dr. Firew Asrat, who maintained constant communication throughout the process from design to final delivery.
“Dr. Firew Asrat from Gofere constantly stayed in touch with me from pre-production to post-production. Gofere: Winning is a habit. They promise and deliver,” she noted.
Commentators have praised the donation as a morale booster for officials, with one remarking during an NBS Sports segment, “Umpires have often been seen repeating the same attire during games. This donation is a significant improvement and a morale booster,” emphasising Nakayenze’s dual role as a journalist and sports official.
The development has been widely hailed as a success story of social media advocacy and a practical boost to Uganda’s sporting infrastructure