As preparations intensify for the upcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, the Uganda Cranes squad on Saturday 26th July 2025 took part in a special media and marketing workshop conducted at their residential camp at FUFA Technical Centre Hotel in Kisaasi.
The session was led by the FUFA Communications Director, Ahmed Hussein and aimed at equipping both players and the technical staff with essential knowledge on media relations, effective communication, branding and professionalism on and off the pitch. The workshop was part of FUFA’s broader strategy to enhance the team’s public image and prepare them for the demands of the continental stage, where media attention and stakeholder expectations are significantly heightened.
Hussein emphasized the importance of being media-savvy, especially in the digital era where players’ actions and words can shape public perception in an instant.
‘As ambassadors of the nation, it is important for our players to understand their roles in communicating the right messages and carrying themselves in a way that promotes the image of the game and the country. These soft skills are just as important as what you do on the pitch,’ Hussein told the team during the session.
He also reminded the local-based players about the importance of respecting media protocols, maintaining professionalism during interviews, and embracing personal branding in accordance with FUFA and CAF guidelines. Key topics included dealing with press interviews, handling social media, dressing and image, crisis communication, and understanding the responsibilities that come with representing Uganda on an international platform.
Following the communications workshop, the team engaged in a photoshoot session and other content creation activities designed to boost their visibility and generate excitement among fans ahead of CHAN 2024. The shoot featured official squad portraits, promotional videos, and creative media content that will be used across FUFA’s platforms and CAF’s tournament materials.
The Uganda Cranes are currently in camp fine-tuning their preparations for the CHAN tournament that will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from 2nd to 30th August 2025. Uganda is placed in the highly competitive Group C alongside Algeria, South Africa, Guinea, and Niger.
FUFA continues to take a holistic approach in preparing the team, focusing not just on physical and tactical readiness, but also on player welfare, mental strength, media literacy and public engagement.
