Capturing Glory: The Prestigious Mpalanyi Ssentongo Award.

For over three decades, Mpalanyi Ssentongo has told stories through the lens — stories of triumph, heartbreak, unity, and grit, particularly in the world of sports. His name resonates across East and Central Africa as a pioneer in photojournalism, crowned the best sports photographer in the region in 2001 during the Castle Cup in Tanzania. In 2021, his legacy was further immortalized with the Uganda Sports Press Association’s Andrew Luwandagga Lifetime in Service Award. Now, his name graces an award dedicated to celebrating the very best in sports photography — The Mpalanyi Ssentongo Award. This year, a stellar lineup of nominees sets the stage for a gripping showdown. Each brings their unique flair, eye for detail, and passion for sports imagery.

Kayira Jackson, a man of many talents, not only captures electrifying moments on the pitch but also lends his voice to the community through the Voice of Bugerere website. A committed storyteller, Kayira doubles as the Media Officer for Asubo Gafford Ladies Football Club in the FUFA Women’s Super League, making him an integral part of Uganda’s evolving football narrative.

Ismail Mulangwa, a powerhouse from Vision Group, boasts an impressive portfolio. From the CECAFA Women’s Senior Challenge Cup to the CAF Women’s Champions League Zonal Qualifiers and the AFCON U17 Championship, Ismail’s lens has been a silent witness to the rise of East African football. Whether it’s the vibrant Startimes Uganda Premier League or the gritty FUFA Big League, Mulangwa’s work speaks volumes without uttering a word.

William LMP may be the newest kid on the block, but he’s making waves in his second season. As the official photographer for Wakiso Giants FC, William has already etched his name into Uganda’s footballing fabric. His vivid coverage of the FUFA Women’s Super League and Stanbic Uganda Cup shows a maturity beyond his years, and a hunger to stand among giants.

And then there’s John Batanudde, a seasoned veteran whose name commands respect in newsrooms and stadiums alike. With the Daily Monitor as his base, Batanudde has roamed near and far to frame the soul of the game. His eye-catching imagery earned him the inaugural Rugby Africa Media and Photography Award in 2021 — an honor that further cements his place in the upper echelons of African sports photography.

As the nominees wait in anticipation, one thing is certain: the legacy of Mpalanyi Ssentongo lives on — not just in memories, but in every frame, every click, every breathtaking photo that captures the spirit of sport. The torch he lit burns bright in these four nominees, each vying to etch their name alongside the master.