The Uganda Cranes’ technical setup has undergone a significant reshuffle after the departure of assistant coach Sam Ssimbwa, whose contract has officially run its course.
Swift Sports Uganda has reliably learned that seasoned tactician Fred Muhumuza has been drafted in to take up the mantle immediately, with the highly anticipated AFCON tournament fast approaching.
Ssimbwa, who was appointed in November 2023 as the right-hand man to head coach Paul Put, exits the role even as the Belgian recently penned a fresh two-and-a-half–year deal to continue steering the national team.
Muhumuza’s elevation comes as no surprise in local coaching circles. The highly respected gaffer boasts an impressive résumé, having guided Vipers SC to a domestic double last season alongside John Ayala Luyinda.
His stock rose further earlier this year when he jointly led the Uganda CHAN team with Morley Byekwaso, navigating the side all the way to the quarterfinals.
A former midfield mainstay for SC Villa and Victors, Muhumuza has also left coaching footprints at URA FC, Bumate United, and Tooro Province in the FUFA Drum, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most adaptable and progressive football minds.
His appointment comes at a critical juncture as Uganda braces for a demanding AFCON campaign in Morocco, where they have been placed in Group C alongside continental heavyweights Nigeria, seasoned challengers Tunisia, and regional rivals Tanzania.
Head coach Paul Put is expected to unveil his final squad shortly as preparations for the prestigious tournament shift into high gear. Uganda now hopes the strategic backroom adjustment will inject fresh tactical energy as the Cranes chase continental glory.
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