Uganda: Supersport Wins With Everyone

Aldrine Nsubuga

30 April 2011

WHEN Multichoice had just introduced the magic of M-net to Ugandans, Supersport was more popularly known as the ‘channel of champions.’

As one of the pioneers of this pay television service in the country, the co-incidence that it found a born football fanatic served to whet my appetite for the football congested menu even more.

For eight years between 1992-2000, the Supersport headquarters in Randburg, South Africa, became my second home as I frequently made trips for training in various fields and exposure to the state of the art studio and broadcasting facilities.

When DStv expanded it’s horizon to Africa, they identified an opportunity where they could give back to the communities that had welcomed and supported them…using Supersport as a platform to promote local football to international audiences.

They poured millions of dollars into telecasting the local leagues, an investment that has changed the lives of African footballers. Many have attracted the attention of international scouts for lucrative professional contracts.

A 12 billion five year deal has been signed between the Uganda Super League (USL) and Supersport where the Super league will be telecast both live and as recorded every week starting with the 2011/12 season.

USL board chairman Kavuma Kabenge, looked like a man living a dream at the announcement of the landmark deal last week. His rare suit, tie and calm demeanour at the high table told the full story of a proud contented man.

His learned colleague, Fred Muwema, also a board member, was as crisp as always, looking elegant and eloquent.

Having been one of the original ‘five’ who hatched this idea of pushing for a professional league five years ago, I missed out on the exhibition but fully understood the chest thumping.

“Football is a business. Once you go professional, it’s about the money,” Kabenge often preached in our strategy meetings.

That’s why, taking his seat alongside the two, was Multichoice Uganda GM, Charles Hamya, a colleague and former workmate of mine, also a golfer and cricketer. His presence to me was the most symbolic for the future success of this venture. He never wastes his signature.

Budding talents like Mike Mutyaba, Saddam Juma, Edema, Bryan Majwega can now rest in the knowledge that they don’t have to rush for semi professional careers to less rewarding destinations to make a quick buck.

Supersport is presenting the bigger opportunities. Even Bobby can now rest. The exodus of Cranes players in search of unknown pastures will reduce.

Coaches will inevitably pull up their socks and improve their credentials, teams will have to play better football, FUFA will have to tone down on their infighting.

AllAfrica – All the Time