Celebrating Passion: The Most Valuable Fan Award Honors Uganda’s Ultimate Football Devotees

In a country where football is more than just a sport—it’s a culture, a way of life—the role of the
fans is sacred. They are the heartbeat in the stands, the color in the crowd, and the unwavering
voice behind every chant and cheer. The Most Valuable Fan Award, presented by the Local
Football Appreciation Awards, shines a spotlight on the individuals whose loyalty, creativity, and
boundless passion make matchdays unforgettable and the football community richer.

This year’s nominees represent the very best of Uganda’s football fandom. From painted bodies
to stadium-spanning energy, each nominee has become a pillar of support for their clubs and
the sport as a whole.

Khassim Kyazze – KCCA FC
A walking canvas of devotion, Khassim Kyazze has turned body painting into an art form of
fanhood. With his torso boldly decorated in club and national colors, Kyazze is a fixture at KCCA
FC and Uganda Cranes games. His unforgettable appearance and passionate cheering earned
him continental recognition at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon, where he was honored
as one of the best fans and received a ticket to the final in Libreville.
Raised in Luzira in a family of 5 siblings, he discovered his love for football early at Luzira
Soccer Academy. A proud KCCA FC supporter since childhood, Kyazze appeals to the
corporate world to support his unique style with resources—especially the paint that brings his
fandom to life. For him, football is not just a hobby; it’s a calling.

Joseph Kamodo Muwonge – Vipers SC
Joseph Kamodo Muwonge is no stranger to Uganda’s football faithful. Once a die-hard SC Villa
supporter, Kamodo made a bold transfer of his own—joining Vipers SC as a fan, purely out of
love. Known for his witty analogies and vibrant presence, Kamodo likens his change of
allegiance to a family welcoming a new son-in-law after a breakup: “I left Villa for Vipers to find
happiness.”
Kamodo believes Vipers SC is the strongest team in Uganda, and he cheers for them with
unmatched vigor. His enthusiasm once attracted interest from Tanzania’s Simba SC, who
reportedly sought to acquire his fanfare in 2019—a testament to his growing influence in African
football circles. Whether on home soil or speculated in transfer rumors, Kamodo remains a
beacon of what it means to love a club wholeheartedly.

Akena Isaac VAR – NEC FC
Hailing from Luzira, Akena Isaac, known affectionately as “VAR,” is a fan with flair and an
evolving football journey. A former KCCA FC kitsman doubling as a cheerleader, Akena
transferred his allegiance to NEC FC during the 2022–23 season, where he now waves the
club’s flag with pride. His reach also extends into women’s football as a dedicated fan of She
Corporate FC, once a FUFA Women’s Super League powerhouse.
Akena is part of a new generation of football fans—versatile, energetic, and deeply engaged in
all levels of the game. His presence adds flavor and support wherever he goes, championing
clubs that often don’t make the mainstream spotlight.
Nicholas Birangi Langi – SC Villa
Few fans exude as much warmth, humor, and love for football as Nicholas Birangi Langi. A
committed SC Villa supporter, Nicholas is also a fan of Kampala Queens WFC and an ardent
Kyaggwe Ssaza FC loyalist. His unmatched enthusiasm has earned him affection across the
football community.
Tragically, Nicholas was involved in a car accident last year after returning from a game in which
Kyaggwe defeated Gomba 2-0. Even so, his spirit remains unbroken, his love for the game
unwavering. Nicholas symbolizes the enduring soul of a fan who stands by his teams through
triumph and trial.

These four remarkable individuals remind us that fans are not just spectators—they are
storytellers, cheerleaders, and symbols of unwavering devotion. The Most Valuable Fan Award
pays tribute to their energy, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds they’ve formed with their
clubs.
As we await the grand ceremony in July, we celebrate not just their loyalty, but their role in
turning football into a shared passion that echoes from the stands into the hearts of millions.