MBALE, Uganda – Jubilation erupted among Kataka FC supporters as the Mbale City-based club finally secured promotion to the Uganda Premier League (UPL), ending a decade-long stay in the FUFA Big League and silencing the “Jaja Big League” tag that had followed them for years.
Kataka sealed their place in Uganda’s top flight with a commanding 2-0 victory over Soltilo Bright Stars at the Bugolobi Coffee Grounds on Saturday. The crucial win secured fourth place on the FUFA Big League table, enough to claim the final promotion slot.
The visitors took the lead in the 41st minute after Isaac Owiny was brought down inside the penalty area by Sharif Nsereko. Referee awarded a penalty, and experienced striker Ali Ssentamu confidently converted from the spot to give Kataka a deserved advantage before halftime.
With promotion within touching distance, Kataka maintained their composure throughout the second half despite pressure from the hosts. Their determination was rewarded in the 87th minute when winger Usama Khayemba found the back of the net to seal victory and spark scenes of celebration on the touchline.
The result marked only Kataka’s second away win of the season, but it came at the most important moment of their campaign.
For years, rival fans had nicknamed the club “Jaja Big League”, a reference to their lengthy stay in Uganda’s second-tier division. Having endured several failed promotion attempts, Kataka finally overcame the hurdle to earn a place among the country’s football elite.
The promotion is also a major boost for football in Eastern Uganda, restoring Uganda Premier League football to Mbale just one season after Mbale Heroes were relegated from the top flight. Heroes have since suffered another setback, dropping to the Regional League after finishing bottom of the FUFA Big League standings.
Meanwhile, Soltilo Bright Stars’ defeat confirmed their relegation to the Regional League, bringing a disappointing end to their campaign.
For Kataka FC, however, Saturday’s victory will be remembered as a landmark moment—a day when years of perseverance, resilience, and belief finally paid off. The club now looks ahead to testing itself against the nation’s best teams in the Uganda Premier League next season.
