FFI Delegation Meets Ministry of Gender to Forge Partnerships for Member Welfare
PS Aggrey David Kibenge highlights opportunities for former footballers in government programs like SAGE and SEGOP, pledging support for future initiatives.
KAMPALA – In a significant move towards securing the welfare of Uganda's football legends, a delegation from the Former Footballers Initiative (FFI), led by Mr. Walusimbi Wooto the FFI coordinator, paid a courtesy visit to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD), Mr. Aggrey David Kibenge, on November 25, 2025.
The meeting, held at the Ministry headquarters, was attended by key ministry officials including the Commissioner for Older Persons, Mr. Prosper; Mr. Menya Patrick; Mr. Enock Mutambi; and the Assistant Commissioner for the Disabled, Mrs. Ajambo Emily.
"The People's Ministry"
Welcoming the FFI team, PS Kibenge described the MGLSD as "the people's ministry," emphasizing its broad mandate covering men, women, youth, children, and older persons. A former footballer and referee himself, Mr. Kibenge expressed deep familiarity with the FFI members, acknowledging their past contributions to Ugandan sports.
He outlined several government programs under his docket that former footballers could directly benefit from, aiming to transform their lives socially and economically:
Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE): Currently providing a monthly stipend of 25,000 UGX to persons aged 80 and above, the PS noted that the eligibility age is set to reduce to 65 years in the coming financial year; a direct benefit to many of FFI's senior members.
Special Enterprise Grant for Older Persons (SEGOP): A scheme allowing groups of 5-7 older persons to access grants for income-generating projects of their choice.
Jua Kali Scheme: Targeting youth below 35 years (relevant for younger retired players or dependents), this initiative identifies skilled individuals; such as welders or salon operators; and provides them with equipment to boost their economic standing.
A Commitment to Collaboration
Impressed by the organized structure of the FFI, Mr. Kibenge pledged to incorporate the activities of such organized groups into the ministry's programs. He particularly encouraged the initiative to develop a school-based program, assuring Ministry support for such community outreach endeavors.
During the meeting, the FFI leadership briefed the PS on recent activities, including the successful participation in the International Day for Older Persons football gala held in Nairobi on October 1st. Mr. Kibenge committed support for similar future events and confirmed that FFI would be officially recognized during upcoming National Celebrations for Older Persons.
My ministry is the people's ministry. As a former footballer myself, I know the value you brought to this nation, and we are committed to working with organized groups like FFI to ensure your members benefit from government development programs." – Mr. Aggrey David Kibenge, PS MGLSD.
Future Prospects
Mr. Prosper, the Commissioner for Older Persons, urged FFI to work closely with the ministry to drive socio-economic transformation for its members. He emphasized the importance of profiling all members to facilitate better planning and revealed plans to institute awards for sports personalities who have served the nation.
Additionally, the Permanent Secretary promised to make inquiries on behalf of FFI regarding the Mayuge Palm Oil investment project, a venture the initiative is keen on exploring for long-term sustainability.
Concluding the meeting, Mr. Kibenge advised the FFI leadership to maintain close contact with Mr. Menya Patrick for all developments and updates, cementing a promising partnership between the legends of the game and the government.