Museveni Pledges Shs1.2B Per Win for Uganda Cranes at CHAN 2024, Boosted by CAF’s $3.5M Prize

President Museveni promises Shs1.2B per Uganda Cranes win at CHAN 2024, with CAF’s $3.5M prize at stake. Can they shine vs. Algeria?

President Yoweri Museveni has ignited excitement for the Uganda Cranes at the ongoing Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, by pledging a staggering Shs1.2 billion bonus for every match the senior men’s national team wins. The announcement, delivered by Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) president Moses Magogo during a visit to the team ahead of their Monday evening opener against Algeria, has set the stage for a high-stakes tournament. “It’s Our Game, It’s Our Country!” FUFA tweeted, rallying fans behind the Cranes.

Magogo, joined by Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among and businessman Hamis Kiggundu, brought more than words of encouragement. Among donated Shs70 million to the team, while Kiggundu promised an additional Shs20 million per victory, amplifying the financial incentives. The Cranes face Algeria at 8 PM at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, in a crucial Group C match alongside Niger, Guinea, and South Africa.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sweetened the deal, boosting CHAN 2024’s prize pool to $10.4 million—a 32% increase. The tournament winner will pocket $3.5 million, a 75% jump from the previous edition, with Uganda already guaranteed $200,000 (about Shs715 million) just for qualifying. Further progress could unlock even bigger rewards, adding to the pressure and promise for the Cranes.

As Uganda hosts part of this historic tournament, Museveni’s bold pledge, combined with CAF’s hefty prizes, has fans buzzing with anticipation. Can the Cranes capitalize on this support and make a deep run? With the nation behind them, tonight’s clash against Algeria is just the beginning of an electrifying journey.