JINJA — Transport along the busy Jinja–Iganga highway was brought to a standstill as hundreds of supporters of Arsenal staged a jubilant trophy parade to celebrate the club’s 2025/26 Premier League triumph.
The excited fans, carrying a replica of the league trophy, moved in a colourful convoy from Bugembe to Jinja City Centre, chanting, dancing and waving club flags as they created a carnival-like atmosphere that drew large roadside crowds and disrupted mid-morning traffic.
The procession, which included vehicles, motorcycles and supporters on foot, took more than three hours to complete, overwhelming traffic police who struggled to maintain order and ensure a steady flow of vehicles along the highway.
“This is a moment we have waited for over two decades,” said Felix Bagiire, popularly known as Shamlove, a local Arsenal supporters’ leader who spearheaded the celebrations. “We couldn’t stay silent. This parade is our way of expressing joy, loyalty, and resilience after 22 years without the league title.”
Supporters from different walks of life, including women, youth and older fans, turned out in large numbers, describing the triumph as historic and emotionally significant.
“We have stood with Arsenal through difficult seasons, and today we celebrate as champions,” one supporter said. “This victory belongs to every supporter who never gave up.”
Another added: “This is more than football—it’s passion and identity. We had to come out and celebrate together as a community.”
The procession culminated at Dfantasy Lounge Jinja, where fans gathered for a street bash and lunch expected to last throughout the day.
Despite the traffic disruption, the celebratory mood remained high, with residents pausing to watch and join in the festivities, underscoring the growing influence of football fan culture and community identity tied to global clubs in Uganda.
