As preparations intensify for the 2024 edition of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has officially unveiled the provisional 41-man Uganda Cranes squad. The list, revealed Today , sets the stage for a competitive selection process that will ultimately produce the final 25-man team set to represent the nation at the tournament later this year.

The spotlight is firmly on newly crowned Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC, who unsurprisingly dominate the provisional call-ups with eight players making the list. Their inclusion reflects the club’s impressive campaign that culminated in their seventh league title and underlines the quality and depth within their ranks. Among the likely inclusions are dependable stalwarts such as Milton Karisa, who captained the Venoms to domestic glory, and goalkeeper Kiggundu Dennis, although final confirmations are still pending.

Close on Vipers’ heels is traditional powerhouse KCCA FC, who contribute seven players to the squad. Though they fell short of the league title, KCCA’s reputation for nurturing top local talent remains intact. The club’s academy system and consistent top-tier performances continue to feed the national team pipeline.

The squad, comprised exclusively of players active in Uganda’s domestic leagues; as per CHAN regulations, reflects a blend of experience and youth. Notable call-ups span various Premier League clubs, giving a broad national footprint to the selection. Teams like UPL runners-up NEC FC, with four players, as well as BUL FC, URA FC, and SC Villa, are also represented, underscoring the competitive balance and talent pool within the Uganda Premier League.

Selection Race Begins

With the tournament kicking off on August 2, 2025, FUFA on Wednesday named a technical team led by head coach Paul Put, and a CHAN; specific coaching panel comprising Fred Muhumuza (Vipers SC) and Morley Byekwaso (SC Villa), both of whom are expected to handle day-to-day training sessions and match preparations.

The two coaches will work under the supervision and strategic guidance of Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put, who will monitor the team’s progress throughout the tournament.The camp offers an opportunity for players to stake their claim before the final squad of 25 is submitted to CAF.Uganda will be eyeing a strong outing at CHAN 2024, hosted jointly by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The Cranes are drawn in a competitive group and will hope to go beyond the group stage: a hurdle they have historically struggled to clear in past CHAN editions. The home advantage, albeit shared regionally, could provide a crucial lift.