“It is not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” — Mother Teresa
Former players of Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC, now playing under the Ex-Kawempe Warriors Ladies team, together with several Crested Cranes players, have come together to support former Kampala Queens striker Hadijah Nampijja.
On Tuesday, 7 April 2026, the group led by Florence Nazizi, Hasifah Nassuna, and Aminah Nababi, met Nampijja and offered assistance aimed at helping her rebuild her life.
Nampijja, a resident of Masajja, is a former striker for Kampala Queens and Buikwe She Red Stars and was once regarded as one of the finest forwards of her generation.
Former Crested Cranes head coach Faridah Bulega, who played alongside her, described her as a “typical number nine,” noting her excellent ball control and clinical finishing ability.
However, like many athletes, life after football has proven challenging. Nampijja recently endured a difficult period, having been released from custody in Luzira just days before the intervention.
She had been arrested by KCCA while working as a street vendor in a bid to earn a living.
Following her release, the players traced her and provided meaningful support.
They paid her rent, bought her a new phone, and gave her capital to start a small business, efforts aimed at restoring stability and dignity in her life.
The initiative brought together a number of players, including Hasifah Nassuna, Florence Nazizi, Aminah Nababi, Phionah Nabumba, Phiona Nabulime, Patricia Akiror, Brenda Nakayenga, Bridget Nabisaalu, Yawe Madina, Mariam Nakabugo, Ruth Aturo and Zainah Nandede.
While the gesture has been widely praised as a powerful show of unity and compassion, it also raises broader questions about the welfare of footballers after retirement and the need for structures to support their transition into life beyond the game.
