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Enock Ssebagala and Usama Arafat are set to represent Uganda at CHAN 2024, following in the footsteps of their older brothers.
The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, is more than just a tournament for two of Ugandan stars.
Midfielder Enock Ssebagala and winger Usama Arafat are not only carrying the hopes of their nation, but also walking the path once taken by their older brothers.
Both are determined to make an impact in the tournament, which will be staged from August 2-28.
Their motivation stems from a proud family heritage in Ugandan football as Ssebagala is following the trail blazed by his brother Manko Kaweesa, a member of Uganda’s maiden CHAN squad in 2011, while Usama seeks to match the exploits of his brother Isima Watenga, a two-time CHAN representative in 2016 and 2018.
Together, the young duo aims to carry forward the family torch while creating new stories of their own.
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A Brother's Footsteps: Ssebagala's Rise
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Enock Ssebagala’s journey to the national team is a tale of steady progression and resilience.
From catching the eye in NEC FC’s debut Uganda Premier League season to earning a transfer to reigning champions Vipers SC, his rise has been shaped by hard work and discipline.
For Ssebagala, family inspiration runs deep, stating, “To me, it is a major achievement."
“My brother has inspired me a lot, and I hope to build on what he started in 2011. I want to represent my country and make my family proud," he noted as quoted by CAF Online.
Despite the fierce competition in midfield, he remains committed to staying grounded.
“God is everything in my journey, but I’ve also worked hard, listened to my coaches, and stayed focused on teamwork. That’s been key to my growth.”
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Usama’s Turn to Shine
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KCCA FC winger Usama Arafat is another name to watch during CHAN 2024.
He brings flair, speed, and confidence to the Ugandan attack and like Ssebagala, Usama draws strength and motivation from a sibling who once stood on the same stage.
His older brother, Isima Watenga, was between the posts for Uganda at CHAN 2016 in Rwanda and CHAN 2018 in Morocco.
Watenga has no doubt about his brother’s potential, stating, “I’ve always believed in Usama."
“He’s talented and ready, but now he needs to prove himself on a bigger stage. CHAN is the perfect platform. It changed my life and it can change his.”
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Having honed his craft at the domestic level, Usama now sees CHAN as the gateway to greater things.
The opportunity to wear the national jersey in front of home crowds, with the eyes of scouts and fans upon him, is a dream he’s ready to chase.
As Uganda prepares to host Africa's finest local-based talent, Enock Ssebagala and Usama Arafat stand united in purpose.
More than personal ambition, they carry the weight of family legacy and the hopes of a nation.
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