Ugandan Emmanuel Okwi finally announced his retirement from International football, putting an end to further engagement in national duties.
A distinguished football servant as described by many in Uganda, the veteran forward has represented the country for over a period of fifteen years.
The former Cranes Captain who made his senior debut in 2009, bows out having featured in 95 games and registered 28 goals to his name in national colors.
In a long farewell statement put out by the AS Kigali striker on Tuesday, Okwi pointed out that this is the right time for budding stars to showcase themselves, with major competitions coming in the near future.
“An exciting new era for Ugandan football is coming up with East Africa hosting the CHAN later this August and subsequently the AFCON 2027 with many young footballers coming up. That is why, having cherished all those memories, I believe it is time for me to bow out and pave the way for our talented young football players.” Okwi highlighted in his farewell message.
Uganda are Co-Hosts of the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) slated for August and three months later they will be participating at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Okwi, believes the new crop of players can use these forthcoming tournaments to kick-start their own legacy with the senior national team, Uganda Cranes.
