The fourth edition of the CECAFA Qualifiers for the CAF African Schools Football Championship wrapped up on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at St. Mary’s Stadium-Kitende, showcasing thrilling football and fierce competition. Uganda emerged as boys’ champions after a gripping final against Ethiopia, while Tanzania claimed the girls’ title.
In the boys’ final, Uganda and Ethiopia played a goalless match that extended to penalties, with Uganda clinching victory 3-1 in the shootout. The girls’ final mirrored this tense conclusion, ending 0-0 before Tanzania edged Ethiopia 5-4 on penalties.
Earlier in the day, the third-place playoffs saw Tanzania beat Burundi 2-0 in the boys’ category, and Uganda secure a 2-0 win over Burundi in the girls’ contest.
Individual and team excellence were celebrated with several awards. Burundi earned the boys’ fair play award, while Uganda received the girls’ fair play honor.
Burundi’s Ramadhan Ngendabanyikwa was recognized as the best goalkeeper in the boys’ category, and Lukia Seleman of Tanzania earned the same accolade for the girls. Top scorers were Nabiru Kajumba of Uganda (boys) and Hajra Mawanja of Tanzania (girls). Uganda’s Muhoozi Henry and Lydia Namaseruka were named the best players in the boys and girls categories, respectively.
Monetary prizes accompanied the honors, with Tanzania and Uganda earning bronze in boys and girls, respectively, and taking home USD 50,000 each. Ethiopia secured silver in both categories, receiving USD 75,000 per category. The champions, Uganda for boys and Tanzania for girls, were awarded USD 100,000 each.
The tournament was a remarkable display of young football talent from the CECAFA region and sets the stage for the upcoming CAF African Schools Championship with high expectations for these emerging
