Ugandan football legend ‘Musanvu w’eggwanga’ Obadiah Ssemakula dies

Ugandan football has lost one of its iconic figures with the passing of Obadiah Ssemakula, who died today at his home in Makindye, Kampala.

Ssemakula, affectionately known as “Musanvu w’eggwanga”, was a dazzling right winger of the 1980s and 1990s, remembered for his pace, precision crosses, and fearless attacking play.

His spectacular bicycle-kick goal against Tanzania remains etched in the memories of Ugandan fans as one of the greatest moments in the Cranes’ history.

Obadiah Ssemakula works out with children of Motherwell Soccer Academy in Mutungo in 2019. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Ssemakula spent much of his club career with Coffee SC, where he rose to prominence as one of the country’s most consistent wide players.

He later featured for Kampala City Council FC (KCCA FC) in the mid-1990s, continuing to demonstrate the flair that had defined his game.

On the international stage, he represented the Uganda Cranes between 1985 and 1988, thrilling supporters with his trademark wing runs. At the 1983 Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup in Kenya, he was voted the tournament’s best right winger, confirming his dominance at regional level.

Struggles after the game

Like many of his generation, Ssemakula faced financial challenges after retiring from professional football. In recent years, he was among the beneficiaries of the Uganda Former Footballers Initiative, a program set up to support legends who once carried the nation’s pride but later fell on hard times.

Despite the hardships, Ssemakula’s footballing legacy endures. Nicknamed “Honda Accord” for the power and speed he displayed on the pitch, he was a player who not only entertained but also inspired.

His style of play, marked by lightning pace, daring crosses, and iconic goals, cemented his place as one of Uganda’s most respected football legends.