Finance Trust Women Super League: Nabawanuka Announces Arrival With Debut Goal Against Jinja United
By Kayiira Jackson
Belinda Hope Nabawanuka announced her arrival on the big stage in style, scoring on her senior-team debut as Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC began their 2026/27 FUFA Women Super League title defence with a commanding 3–0 victory over newcomers Jinja United WFC.
Elevated from Kawempe’s lower team ahead of the new campaign, Nabawanuka came off the bench in the 63rd minute of the second half and needed just six minutes to make her mark, finding the net in the 69th minute to complete a comfortable victory for the defending champions.
The versatile youngster was introduced alongside Shadia Nabirye in the 63rd minute replacing Anitah Namata, and quickly showed why she had earned her promotion to the senior side.
Nabawanuka had two attempts before finally converting her third opportunity after being released by Agnes Nabukenya, putting the result beyond Jinja United’s reach.
The goal was particularly significant given Nabawanuka’s record against the Mayuge-based side. She also scored against Jinja United in the Elite League final at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, netting the only goal of the game to help URA Ladies FC lift the title.
Her latest strike therefore continued what is becoming a fruitful relationship with Jinja United, while also giving her a dream start to life with Kawempe’s senior team.
Nabawanuka’s contribution came after Kawempe had already established a commanding lead inside the opening three minutes.
Latifah Nakasi broke the deadlock after just two minutes, scoring the first goal of the 2026/27 FUFA Women Super League season.
Kawempe doubled their advantage a minute later when Aisha Naigaga inadvertently turned the ball into her own net while attempting to deal with Jovia Nakagolo’s effort, which had rebounded off the woodwork.
The two early goals gave the champions a 2–0 advantage at the break before Nabawanuka’s introduction added fresh energy to the attack.
The victory was also a positive start for coach Ayub Khalifa Kiyingi, who used the opportunity to give several players valuable minutes as Kawempe began their campaign to retain the league crown.
The match also marked the return of midfielder Shakirah Nyinagahirwa following a lengthy injury lay-off. She was named Player of the Match after her comeback, providing another encouraging development for the champions.
“I’m glad to be back on grass to feature in the Super League,” Nyinagahirwa said after the game. “I thank the coaches for having confidence in me. It’s work in progress and I’m focused to see myself to the best version I’m known of.”
Kiyingi was equally pleased with Nyinagahirwa’s return and backed her to regain her best form as the season progresses.
“I’m happy with Shakirah Nyinagahirwa’s performance, who returns from a long-term injury,” Kiyingi said. “By the middle of the season, she will be back to her peak to drive this team again.”
The encounter also produced the first disciplinary records of the new campaign, with Kawempe players Kuruthum Namutebi and Jovia Nakagolo receiving yellow cards.
Kawempe will next face She Maroons at Wankulukuku on 26 September, while Jinja United will look to respond when they host She Corporate at Iganga Ssaza Ground.