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The race for the 2026 StarTimes Uganda Premier League Most Valuable Player award is officially heating up after the Uganda Premier League unveiled a five-man shortlist featuring some of the standout performers of the season.
The nominees for the prestigious accolade are Abdul Karim Watambala, Frank Ssebuufu, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Ambrose Kigozi and Raymond Barasa Mangoli, with each player playing a major role for their respective clubs during the 2025/26 campaign.
KCCA FC striker Ivan Ahimbisibwe leads the nominees in goals scored with 13 league strikes and two assists. The forward has been the focal point of KCCA’s attack throughout the season and played a key role in keeping the Kasasiro Boys in the title race.
Vipers SC midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala has also enjoyed a sensational season, contributing 10 goals and four assists as the Venoms cruised to the league title. His creativity, composure and ability to deliver in decisive moments made him one of the club’s most influential players.
SC Villa forward Frank Ssebuufu has been equally impressive with nine goals and five assists, giving him the highest combined goal contributions among the shortlisted players. His performances in attack helped Villa remain competitive near the top end of the table for much of the campaign.
Entebbe UPPC forward Ambrose Kigozi emerged as one of the surprise packages of the season after netting 11 league goals. His consistency in front of goal turned him into one of the most dangerous attackers outside the traditional title contenders.
The shortlist is completed by SC Villa defender Raymond Barasa Mangoli, whose commanding displays at the back earned him recognition among the league’s elite performers. Mangoli has been central to a Villa defence that has conceded just 15 goals in 28 league matches so far — the best defensive record in the division this season.
The winner will be decided through voting ahead of the SUPL Awards ceremony, with fans expected to play a major role in determining who walks away with the coveted MVP crown.
