The Government of Uganda is set to release UGX 1.5 billion to support the Uganda Cranes as part of efforts to strengthen the national team squad.

Speaking on CBS FM’s Akati Keby’emizanyo programme on Wednesday night, FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo confirmed the development, noting that the funds will facilitate the integration of players with Ugandan heritage who have been raised abroad.

“I want to confirm that we have had engagements with the government regarding players who have ties to Uganda but were raised in Europe and elsewhere. The money we requested is UGX 1.5 billion, and it will be provided,” Magogo said.

Magogo explained that the move is aimed at improving the quality of the national team to match that of some of Africa’s top footballing nations.

“When we informed the public about this request, there was a lot of discontent. However, this is a strategy being used by other countries such as Morocco and Senegal. If you look at our national team currently, you will notice players like Elio Capradossi, who have committed to Uganda, and their quality is evident,” he added.

He further revealed that the federation has already initiated discussions with several eligible players abroad.

“If you consider the level of investment by other countries, the amount we requested is relatively small. We have been working behind the scenes, and negotiations are ongoing. FUFA appointed Mr. Mathias Ndawula, who travels across Europe identifying players with Ugandan ties. Hopefully, by the next international window in June, we could see some new faces,” Magogo stated.

After missing the March FIFA international break, during which the Uganda Cranes were scheduled to play two matches, Magogo confirmed that the team will be active in the June international window.

Among the promising talents with Ugandan roots are Chelsea’s Ryan Kavuma and Manchester City’s Devine Mukasa, who is currently on loan at Leicester City.

However, Mukasa previously indicated in an interview two years ago, during a visit to Uganda, that he was not ready to represent the national team.

Nonetheless, there have been cases of players initially opting for European national teams before later switching allegiance to their countries of heritage.

Other players with Ugandan connections include Arthur Okonkwo, Bashir Humphreys, and Joshua Muwana.