UNSUNG HERO: Innocent Bagenayabo
It is a chilly Saturday morning with the effects of the dew and early rising sun rays felt.
Just moments before one of the national junior team’s training sessions, a gentleman believed to be in his mid 20’s is brushing off the wastes from the synthetic turf at Njeru technical center.
On first sight, Innocent Bagenayabo, the Njeru technical turf maintenance officer will straight away reflect the signs of a diligent and committed workman.
Since 2009, Bagenayabo has been executing the daily routine tasks of maintaining Njeru technical turf among other core assignments at the center. He never complains and loves his job. You may need to make the trip to Njeru to prove this for yourself.
I have love to do my work because of the burning passion to make things perfect at the Njeru Center and earn a living as well
Bagenayabo reveals to www.fufa.co.ug.
Hailing from Kisoro, Bagenayabo was one of the lucky employees during the construction of the first FIFA Goal project in Njeru.
Back then, his service at the center was exceptional that the supervisors were proud of the work he executed.
When the project ended, he was appointed as the head in charge of maintaining the turf and the center facilities.
‘I was trained the basics of cleaning the turf with the tractor that wheels a cleaning brush, replacing damaged turf portions and to date I have no regrets having taken up the job’ he adds, with a smile
flashing across his face.
Sole Bread Winner
Today, Bagenayabo at just 25 is the sole bread winner for his family of three – his fiancee and two children.
Layan Tugume and Edgar Shimye happily live and enjoy seeing their father going about his routine work that includes sweeping and cleaning the turf as well as maintaining the center facilities- the accommodation and lock rooms.
When the national teams-Uganda Cranes and Cubs trained at Njeru technical center, he never found time to rest.
He made sure the surrounding environment is cleared to avoid any dangerous reptiles from finding their way to the residential rooms.
I try my best to keep this place clean because I want the guests to find it neat
said Bagenayabo.
With the FUFA Extra Ordinary assembly set for this Saturday in Njeru, the man from kisoro will be on alert to keep the place extra clean.
What people say about Innocent Bagenayabo
He works tirelessly and it is difficult to attach a particular to the work he does in Njeru. He is committed to his work
Says FUFA President Eng Moses Magogo.
He is a disciplined worker. He works 24 hours a day. He is a very honest boy
Said FUFA Technical Director Asuman Lubowa who supervises Bagenayabo.
Managing a facility of that size is just unbelievable for a young man of his age. He has first class hospitality and coordination
Says FUFA’s Competition Director Ali Mwebe.
Quick Facts:
Family: Born to Fridah Muteshimana (Mother) and Fred Bashaka (Father)
Age: 25 years
Favorite: Posho and meat
Best drink: Water, Eagle Lager
Favorite clubs: KCC FC. He is also staunch Uganda Cranes fan.
Favorite player: Brian Majwega, he is a tricky boy while on the pitch
MAIN PHOTO: Bagenayabo on duty at Njeru technical center
