In the quiet village of Kiwango in Mukono District, celebrations erupted after supporters of Arsenal marked a long-awaited Premier League triumph, ending what fans described as 22 years of frustration and near misses.
The celebrations were triggered after a draw involving Manchester City and AFC Bournemouth mathematically confirmed Arsenal’s title win in the Premier League.
In response, members of the Kiwango Fitness Group gathered in Kiwango Village, slaughtering and roasting a cow in a communal celebration that drew residents from surrounding communities.
“This moment is historic,” said Jimmy Mutyaba, popularly known as “General” and president of the group. “We have waited 22 long years. From the start of the season, I believed this would happen. When City dropped points, I immediately picked up my phone and ordered the cow and drinks. This victory belongs to all of us.”
Beyond football, the group said the celebration reflected deeper values of discipline, unity, and consistency built through daily morning routines.
The Kiwango Fitness Group, composed of men and women from Kiwango and nearby areas, meets every morning at 6am for physical workouts before heading to work.
Coach Raymond Mugabi said the Arsenal victory felt like a reward for the group’s commitment to fitness and discipline.
“The unity here is special. We don’t just support Arsenal — we embody the same values: hard work, resilience, and togetherness,” Mugabi said. “This win feels like a reward for that commitment. I thank God and every member who continues to show up.”
He used the occasion to encourage wider community participation in physical exercise, describing fitness as essential for health and disease prevention.
Female members of the group — Gida, Ruth, Provia, and Leticia — also shared their experiences, saying regular exercise had improved their health, energy, and confidence.
“Jogging and exercising have improved our health, energy, and confidence,” they said. “We are proud Arsenal fans, but also fitness ambassadors. We encourage fellow women to join us.”
The celebrations climaxed with a communal feast of roast beef, drinks, and chants of “Up the Gunners!” as residents gathered to mark the occasion.
The group also regularly watches matches at Fantasy World Sonde, where they say football has become a unifying force that strengthens community ties beyond sport.
The Kiwango Fitness Group continues to welcome new members, regardless of football allegiance, combining sport, fitness, and social bonding in one of Mukono’s most tightly knit community movements.
