MBARARA, Uganda — Mbarara City Football Club has unveiled a major rebranding ahead of the 2026/27 Uganda Premier League season, adopting Ankole FC as its new identity as the club seeks to usher in a new era both on and off the pitch.
The rebranding is part of a wider transformation of the club that includes a revamped board, a new major sponsor, eight new signings and changes to the club’s operational structure.
Formerly known as Mbarara City FC and popularly branded as the Ankole Lions, the club was founded about 15 years ago and earned its first promotion to the Uganda Premier League in 2017.
Under its new identity, Ankole FC will continue to represent Mbarara and the wider Ankole region, with a move from Rwamwanja to Africa Coffee Park as its home venue
The club has also unveiled a new-look leadership structure aimed at strengthening its administration and supporting its ambitions in the Premier League.
Among the new board members are Hon. Mercy Kanyesigye and Hon. Francis Mwijukye.
Hon. Mwine Mpaka has been appointed Board Chairperson and Club President, with Mr. Nixon Tusiime serving as Vice Chairperson.
Other board members include Eng. Jackson Byarugaba, who will oversee administration; Osborn Mushabe, in charge of mobilisation; Ms Anita Vicky, responsible for sponsorships; and Osborn Turyasingura, who will oversee finance.
The club has also appointed Mr. Benon Akandwanaho, Ms. Elone Natumanya Ainebyoona and Mr. Kigongo Asuman as board members.
A major boost to the rebranding is the arrival of Africa Coffee Park as the club’s main shirt sponsor in a deal valued at Shs500 million.
The partnership is expected to provide financial support as Ankole FC strengthens its squad and builds a more competitive football operation.
The club has confirmed eight new signings as part of its preparations for the new Premier League campaign.
Ankole FC is scheduled to begin its 2026/27 Uganda Premier League campaign against NEC FC on September 15, providing the first major test of the club’s new identity.
The rebranding marks a significant moment in the club’s history as it seeks to move into a new era while retaining the support and football heritage built under the Mbarara City FC identity.
With a new brand, revamped leadership, fresh players and a major sponsor, Ankole FC enters the new season with renewed ambitions to establish itself as a strong force in Ugandan football.
