Robert Ssemakula honoured

Robert Ssemakula was honoured for his exceptional dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of the Ugandan community in Victoria. He was one of eight individuals recognised for founding a community health and welfare group, initially a fitness gathering among friends, although it has since evolved into a regular Sunday fixture. The group meets weekly at Cairnlea Park for workouts, with a community BBQ on the last Sunday of each month focusing on health and wellbeing.

This recognition also celebrates Ssemakula’s extensive football journey as Davis Wamawungo writes about a remarkable football career on Buvuma Island in Uganda. His mother nurtured his talent and ensured he received an education at Magwa Primary School in Jinja. Ssemakula’s football potential was discovered before being convinced to join Rubaga Secondary School and crossing over to rivals Lubiri SS.

His talent at Lubiri SS led him to join the top Ugandan club, Sports Club Villa. He remembers his first flight with SC Villa as the only secondary school student to participate, and they competed in the regional Challenge Cup. He won four league titles in six years and a continental silver medal in the Africa Cup of Championships. His career also saw him join the Uganda Cranes, the national team.

After Villa, Ssemakula played for Express FC, Villa Internal FC, and Posta FC before moving to Canada in the early 2000s. He later moved to Australia, joining Brimbank Stallions FC for two years. One of his career highlights was scoring a memorable goal against Al-Hilal of Egypt in the African Club Championships semi-finals, helping SC Villa secure a silver medal.

Ssemakula’s football legacy extended beyond his playing career. He transitioned into coaching, starting with Nakivubo Boys in Uganda, where he shared his wealth of experience and technical knowledge. He furthered his coaching education with a certificate from the American Soccer Coaching Association in Portugal. Ssemakula also led Uganda’s Homeless World Cup team to South Africa, Denmark, and Australia, using football for personal growth and empowerment.

Ssemakula’s approach to coaching goes beyond technical tactics. He believes in fostering a sense of camaraderie and humour, making the game enjoyable for his players. One particularly memorable moment during his coaching career occurred when a player, Solomon, accidentally conceded a goal. But within a minute, Solomon redeemed himself by scoring a goal for his team. Ssemakula lightened the mood by joking, “Omusiru atebye goal,” which caused everyone to laugh. Reflecting on the incident, Ssemakula also found himself laughing, showing his ability to maintain a positive atmosphere even in challenging situations.

Whether on the pitch or in a coaching role, Ssemakula has always emphasised the importance of community teamwork. His passion for the local community is a testament to his leadership, passion for the sport, and commitment to making a positive impact.

Other honourees included George Mukiibi, Charles Ronnie Kasirye, Trevor Ssemakula, Frank Wojia, Joseph Ssemakula, Gabriel Ssemakula, and Chris Mwanje.