Special Recognition: The Remarkable Strength and Dedication of Mulwana Joel 'Semedo'
Kampala University extends its deepest condolences to Mulwana Joel, affectionately known as “Semedo,” a proud member of the Kampala University Football Team, who recently suffered the devastating loss of his sister, Nakanyike Swabrah, his brother-in-law, Ssentongo Musa, and their three-month-old baby, Sentongo Aisha.
In the midst of unimaginable grief, Joel faced one of the most difficult choices any student could make: whether to attend the burial of his loved ones or stand with his teammates in one of the university’s most important matches of the season. After deep reflection and personal struggle, he made the courageous decision to play, showing remarkable resilience, discipline, and a solid sense of duty to his team and university.
Joel later shared that he did not want to experience “two losses” in one day. Though his heart was with his family, he could not bear to let his teammates down. In an extraordinary show of composure, he chose to keep the heartbreaking news to himself until after the match, not wanting to demoralize his team. That choice, born from loyalty, humility, and love for his university, revealed the depth of his character.
Despite the heavy emotional weight he carried, Joel delivered an outstanding performance, helping Kampala University secure a 4–0 victory over the University of Kisubi in the 2025–26 Pepsi University Football League. The win lifted KU to 7 points in Group A, following a 3–1 victory over Mountains of the Moon University and a 0–0 draw against Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi. Other members of Group A include Kampala International University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST).
Owek. Amb. Al-haj Prof. Badru D. Kateregga, the founding Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, commended Joel’s bravery and embodiment of KU’s core values, stating;
“In every sense of the word, Joel is a hero. To play through heartbreak and still give his best for his university shows a level of integrity, professionalism, and strength that humbles us all. He embodies what Kampala University stands for - courage in adversity, firmness in purpose, and excellence in character. Joel reminds us that true leadership is not only found in moments of triumph but in how we rise above our deepest pain. He has made us proud, and he will always have our full support.”
The Sports Director Kampala University Mr.Faizal Mubiru also praised Joel’s extraordinary character and devotion to the university;
“Joel has an incredible heart for his school, his teammates, and the game itself. When he finally opened up about what he was going through, it was one of the most heartbreaking moments I have witnessed. Not many things move me to tears, but that moment almost did.
When I told him he could have gone to the funeral, he said he was grateful for the opportunity the university has given him to pursue his education and wanted to show his dedication by being present for the match. It was not a decision he took lightly. His tenacity, discipline, and selflessness are unmatched. He is one of the most reliable and committed players I have ever coached - and one of the best on our team. Many people do not know this, but Joel has turned down paid offers from other clubs because he wants to serve his school. That is who he is: loyal, grounded, and driven by purpose. We are truly blessed to have him, and we are deeply sorry for the tragedy he is experiencing. We will support him with the same loyalty and strength that he has always shown to his team and his school.”
The Kampala University community stands firmly beside Mulwana Joel “Semedo” during this painful time. We ask all students, staff, alumni, and friends to rally behind him and keep him and his departed loved ones in their thoughts and prayers.
May the souls of Nakanyike Swabrah, Ssentongo Musa, and Sentongo Aisha rest in eternal peace. May Joel continue to find strength in their memory and in the love and support of his university family.
By Ssekatawa Julius Abubakar
Public Relations Officer, Kampala University