Laryea Kingston has a new chapter ahead. The former Ghana international and Black Starlets coach has been appointed head coach of Uganda’s men’s youth national teams, a role that puts him in charge of developing the country’s next football stars. The announcement was made on Wednesday, October 8, as Kingston signed a two-year deal with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
It marks a significant step for both Kingston and Ugandan football. The 43-year-old, who holds UEFA A and CAF B licenses, will oversee the U17 and U20 teams until 2027, bringing technical depth and experience that FUFA believes can reshape its youth setup. For a nation eager to break into Africa’s football elite, his appointment feels like a statement of intent.
FUFA CEO Edgar Watson confirmed the move, describing Kingston’s arrival as “a new era” for Uganda’s junior football. The federation believes his expertise will bridge the gap between raw talent and professional excellence, ensuring a stronger pipeline of homegrown players for the senior Cranes team in the years ahead.
Kingston’s coaching journey has been one of persistence and growth. After two years leading Ghana’s U17s, he guided the Black Starlets through the WAFU B U-17 Cup of Nations, hosted in Ghana last year. He later took up a role with RPS Academies in the United States, where he honed his skills in youth development before this latest international assignment.
Despite Kingston’s arrival, Brian Ssenyondo will continue as head coach of Uganda’s U17 team through the upcoming FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. Ssenyondo had previously stated this would be his final stint at the junior level, though he remains open to future national team opportunities.
Kingston’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Uganda’s football project. With regional competition growing fiercer, FUFA’s decision reflects a clear commitment to structure, mentorship, and global experience. For Kingston, it’s a chance to apply the lessons learned from Ghana’s football heritage to a new stage, and for Uganda, it’s an opportunity to dream bigger.
