Onyango inspires next generation as Mamelodi Sundowns wraps up Uganda tour

Mamelodi Sundowns, the South African football giants and home to Uganda’s legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango, concluded their African tour in Uganda with a series of impactful football clinics at Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025.

The visit aimed to honour Onyango’s legacy and inspire the next generation of footballers.

The tour began on Thursday, March 20th, with a special visit to Ntanda College in Butambala District, Onyango’s alma mater. The Mamelodi Sundowns delegation, led by Academy Coaches, Club Chairman Tlhopie Motsepe, and Goalkeeper Trainer Kennedy Mweene, spent the day engaging with students and staff.

Ssenkungu Rajjab, the principal of Ntanda College, expressed his pride in hosting the club. “It’s a tremendous honor to welcome Mamelodi Sundowns,” he said. “We have always taken pride in nurturing successful individuals, and Denis Onyango is a testament to that. His achievements inspire us all.”

He added, “This visit will motivate students who may have doubted their talents, showing them that with focus and dedication, they too can achieve greatness, whether in football or other pursuits.”

On Friday, March 21st, the team continued their tour with visits to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) headquarters and SC Villa, the club where Onyango began his professional career. FUFA President Moses Magogo praised the visit, stating, “Their trip to Uganda is a fitting tribute to Denis Onyango, a legendary former Uganda Cranes captain and goalkeeper. We are proud to host Mamelodi Sundowns and wish them success in the World Club Cup.”

The tour’s highlight came on Saturday, when Mamelodi Sundowns hosted football clinics at Hamz Stadium. Running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the clinics provided young players with the opportunity to train under experienced coaches and learn from football icons. Attendees included former Uganda Cranes players Tony Mawenje and Hassan Waswa, as well as Zambian 2012 Africa Cup of Nations-winning goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene.

Denis Onyango, a key figure in Mamelodi Sundowns’ success, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “We wanted to create opportunities for both boys and girls, especially as women’s football continues to grow. This is about giving back to Ugandans and the football community,” he said.

Tlhopie Motsepe, Chairman of Mamelodi Sundowns, reiterated the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. “We are thrilled to be in Uganda. This tour is about inspiring the next generation and giving back to the sport we love,” he said. “We welcome Ugandan players to join us in South Africa and continue their development.”

Motsepe also highlighted Uganda’s passion for football, noting, “The enthusiasm and love for the game among Ugandan youth is incredible. It’s the perfect foundation for building future stars.”

Onyango’s illustrious career, which includes 79 appearances for the Uganda Cranes and numerous titles with Mamelodi Sundowns, has left an indelible mark on African football. Retiring from international football in 2021, Onyango remains one of the most decorated players in Mamelodi Sundowns’ history, boasting 16 trophies with the club. These include seven Premier Soccer League titles, a CAF Champions League trophy, and several individual accolades. In 2016, he reached the pinnacle of his career, being named CAF’s African-based Player of the Year and Best African Goalkeeper.