By James Alomu

Captain Flight Mike Mukula, the former vice chairperson of the National Resistance Movement for Eastern Uganda, has officially launched Arrow Boys Football Club, a new initiative aimed at professionalizing football and developing the sports economy in the Teso sub-region.

Speaking at the launch, Mukula described football as the biggest unifying sport in Uganda, noting its ability to bring together communities across social and political divides. He observed that despite the region’s strong passion for the game and abundant talent, Teso has never had a prominent team competing at the national league level, a gap he said Arrow Boys FC intends to bridge.

Mukula said the club marks the beginning of a fundamental transformation in how football from Teso will be organized, managed and represented nationally. He emphasized that the long-term vision is to introduce professionalism in all aspects of the game, from player development and management to infrastructure and marketing, while creating pathways for talented players from Teso to access international football opportunities.

He further revealed plans to improve sports infrastructure in the sub-region, including the upgrading of Oligoi Football Playground, and pledged to lobby for the construction of a major stadium in Teso. Mukula also highlighted the link between football and tourism, noting that the club’s jersey will be branded “Visit Teso” as part of efforts to promote the region as a ?????? and investment destination.

Frank Video Anyau, the head of the technical team at Arrow Boys FC, described football as a viable industry that produces and sells talent. He said the sport not only creates economic opportunities but also contributes positively to players’ mental well-being and strengthens social cohesion by bringing people together across a wide catchment area.

John Odongo, the Chairperson of the FUFA Northern Region, called on residents of Teso to embrace and support the new club. He noted that community backing is essential for the growth, sustainability and competitiveness of football clubs seeking to make an impact at the national level.

The launch of Arrow Boys FC signals renewed ambition to position Teso as a competitive force in Ugandan football while leveraging the sport as a tool for unity, tourism promotion and economic development in the sub-region.