URA FC have strengthened their attacking line-up with the acquisition of 23-year-old forward Derrick Kakooza on a two-year deal. The Kampala-born striker arrives as a free agent after concluding a stint with Albanian side Tërbuni Pukë in 2025, bringing both international experience and a hunger to make an impact.
Kakooza has been training with the Tax Collectors for over three months, impressing head coach Hussein Mbalangu and the technical team with his work ethic and sharpness in front of goal. His permanent signing comes at a crucial stage for URA, who have struggled for scoring consistency this season.
“I am grateful to the management and coaching staff for believing in me,” Kakooza said. “I’ve been given a chance to prove myself, and I promise to repay that trust with hard work, goals, and results for the club. I want to help URA win games and bring joy to the fans.”
The striker acknowledged the challenges he has faced in his career but remains determined to rewrite his story. “There were setbacks in my journey, but this is a fresh start. With discipline, teamwork, and consistency, I’m ready to give my all and perform at my best.”
Coach Mbalangu is confident Kakooza can make a significant contribution. “Derrick is a talented forward with potential to thrive at URA. He has shown great signs in training, and we now expect him to deliver on the pitch during matches.”
Kakooza’s career path reflects both promise and resilience. After rising through Naguru Police Academy and Police Kampala, he caught the eye during the 2021 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, finishing as top scorer and helping Uganda Hippos to a runners-up finish. His performances earned interest from European clubs, leading to spells at Belgian side R.S.C. Anderlecht (trial), Latvian Valmiera FC, Finnish League Cup team KuPS, Egyptian side ENPPI SC, Ethiopian Coffee, and most recently Tërbuni Pukë in Albania.
Domestically, Kakooza scored eight goals in 18 games across two seasons for Police FC before venturing abroad. He has also represented the senior Uganda Cranes, adding international exposure to his resume.
Kakooza joins URA alongside fellow mid-season recruits Moses Waiswa, Disan Galiwango, and Rahmat Ssenfuka, as the club looks to strengthen its squad and mount a strong finish to the season.
This signing signals URA’s intent to revitalize their attack and ease the scoring burden that has hindered their campaign so far. With Kakooza on board, fans will be hoping the striker can convert his talent and international experience into goals that lift the team up the Uganda Premier League table.
