Ugandan Football Federation set to host Africa Zone Series 

The American Football Federation of Uganda (AFFA) is set to host the latest Africa Zone Series exhibition from November 25 to November 27 in Kampala, Uganda.

The Africa Zone Series began in 2018 with a cross-border trip for the Ugandan squad back in 2018 to play Kenya in Nairobi. Since then, the two teams, who operate as de facto national teams, have met twice more in an attempt to grow the sport in each of their respective countries.

This year, the exhibition will take place over three days and will feature two newcomers to the series, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zimbabwe.

The President of the AFFA, Steven George Okeng, commented on this year’s Africa Zone Series:

As an organization we shall always look out for activities that amplify our development and also create opportunities for the talented football players in Uganda. We believe that this series will let the world know that Uganda, and Africa as a whole, has the talent that needs to be out there in the professional leagues in Europe, Asia and America. 

It gives us much pride to be hosting this year’s Africa Zone Series and our players are ready to give a show for football lovers across the country since the event shall be broadcasted live on TV. This is a great milestone and we only pray for the best when the day comes.

Football festivities will kick off on Friday with all four countries’ athletes participating in a pro-style combine in collaboration with All 22, an American global scouting network.

The second day, or media day, is intended to increase visibility of the sport with a team march from the city center to the stadium where the games will take place. Various outreach activities will also be set up so that visitors and their families can interact with the sport.

The third and final day will consist of two games beginning at 3pm local time. The first of the two will see DRC play Zimbabwe in a flag-football format as the two nations are new to the sport. 

The main event will begin shortly after with Uganda taking on Kenya. With the last contest between the two ending 18-18 in Nairobi, each squad will be looking to assert themselves as the premier team in East Africa.

Daniel Mackenzie is a Press Association graduate who works in journalism and communications in the third sector. Daniel began playing football for the London Warriors and Team Great Britain and has since played across Europe.