Former She Corporate captain Cissy Nantongo has passed away, sending Uganda’s football fraternity into mourning.
Nantongo was pronounced dead on Wednesday after a reported battle with cancer.
During her career, Nantongo enjoyed considerable success with She Corporate FC including winning the 2021/22 FUFA Women Super League title and was instrumental in the team’s triumphs in the FUFA Women’s Cup and Women’s Elite League.
She also guided the side to the final of the CAF CECAFA Women’s Champions League zonal qualifiers.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) joined the football community in mourning the former midfielder.
“FUFA mourns the passing of She Corporate midfielder Cissy Nantongo. We extend our deepest condolences to She Corporate FC management, players, friends and family,” FUFA said in a statement.
Tributes have continued to pour in from former teammates and friends who remembered Nantongo for her leadership and dedication to the sport.
“This is so sad, losing such a great hero like you. May the Almighty strengthen your family and RIP,” former teammate Danielita Favour posted.
Former teammate Phionah Nabbumba added: “Can’t believe you are gone.”
Kampala Queens player Catherine Nagadya also expressed her grief, saying: “It hurts knowing I will never get the chance to meet you on the field again. We shared the same passion and dreams through football, but your journey ended too soon.”
Another former teammate, Naava Molly, described Nantongo as one of the team’s strongest pillars.
“It is hard to take that you are no more, Cissy. We shall always remember your leadership both on and off the pitch for you have been one of our strongest pillars. May your soul rest in peace, our leader. We shall live to remember you, our warrior,” she said.
Sports journalist Joel Muyita recalled Nantongo’s rise through school football, revealing that he first met her in 2015 while she was a student at Kakungulu Memorial School, Kibuli.
Muyita recounted how Nantongo later moved to Mukono High School alongside Vanessa Karungi and Shamirah Nalugya, forming a formidable side that won the USSSA Girls Football title in Kabale in 2017, with Nantongo serving as captain.
He also remembered her role in helping Olila High School win the inaugural FUFA Women’s Cup after joining the Soroti-based side on loan from She Corporate.
“It is sad that you are gone but you leave with us so many fond memories that we will keep reminiscing,” Muyita said.
According to family members, Nantongo’s body is currently at her parents’ home in Mulago, Kafeero Zone, where a vigil will be held on Thursday.
She will be laid to rest on Friday at her ancestral home in Kibanga, Nabisanga Village, Mpigi District.
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