Uganda’s sole representatives, Vipers SC, step into the regional spotlight today as the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup officially kicks off at the Amahoro Stadium.
Running through August 7, the premier regional club showcase brings together 12 of East and Central Africa’s top outfits.
For the Venues from Kitende, the mission is simple: conquer the region for the first time in club history and lay down a marker ahead of their upcoming CAF Champions League campaign.
Vipers SC have been pitted in what many are already calling the tournament’s “Group of Death.” Group A features:
Vipers SC (Uganda,APR FC (Rwanda – Hosts), Gor Mahia FC (Kenya) and Garde Républicaine (Djibouti)
With only the three group winners and the single best runner-up across the tournament advancing directly to the semi-finals, there is zero margin for error in Kigali. Every goal, point, and tactical setup will be crucial from the opening minute.
Starting Fast Against Garde Republicaine
The Venoms open their campaign in the early kick-off today against Djibouti’s Garde Républicaine at Amahoro Stadium.
While the Djiboutian side enters as tournament debutants, Vipers will know better than to take any opponent lightly in a competition of this scale.
A decisive victory in matchday one is vital to build momentum before daunting group fixtures against host heavyweights APR FC and Kenyan powerhouses Gor Mahia.
This tournament marks the first major competitive test for new French tactician Denis Lavagne, who was appointed to steer the Venoms into a new era.
Following several high-profile departures during the off-season—including experienced right-back Nicholas Wadada and midfielder Taddeo Lwanga—Vipers have moved swiftly to fortify their ranks. Key summer additions expected to make their mark include:
Joel Sserunjogi (Midfielder) Jacques Mangoba (Defender), Nicholas Mwere (Defender), Loyce Marius Mbaba (Gabon International Goalkeeper) among others.
The Kagame Cup provides Lavagne the perfect competitive proving ground to integrate his new signings and test his tactical setup under intense match conditions.
Beyond the pride of taking home regional bragging rights, the winners of the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup will claim $30,000 in prize money, with the runners-up and third-placed teams taking home $20,000 and $10,000 respectively.
Can the Kitende giants navigate Group A and deliver Uganda its first Kagame Cup title in years? The journey begins today in Kigali.
Match Details:
Friday Fixtures:
Vipers SC (UGA) vs. Garde Republicaine (DJI) 16:00 EAT
APR FC (RWA) vs Gor Mahia (KEN) 20:00 EAT.
