Today, we say goodbye to Zainah Nandede, who departs Kampala Queens FC as a free agent following the expiration of her contract.
Over three unforgettable seasons at the palace, Zainah etched her name in the history
books̶ helping the team win two Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League titles (2022/23 and 2024/25), emerging as one of our most prolific scorers, and proudly representing Uganda at both junior and senior national levels.
Zainah began her football journey in school, first making waves at Nkoma Secondary School, where coach Jovan Magino introduced girls’ football in 2018. She had previously focused on netball and volleyball. Her school performances earned her a place at She Kataka FC in Mbale, where she scored 10 goals and provided six assists in just 17 appearances, helping the club gain promotion to the FUFA Women Elite League.
Zainah’s rise through Uganda’s national teams has been meteoric. She featured prominently for the U17 and U20 squads before earning her senior debut with the Crested Cranes in 2022. Her international honors include: COSAFA U-17 Championship (2019), CECAFA U-17 Championship (2019), CECAFA U-20 Championship Silver (2021), and CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship Winner (2022).
Zainah joined Kampala Queens at the end of 2021, entering a team of talented attackers. With unwavering confidence, she became a versatile performer playing primarily as right forward, yet always ready to fill other positions as needed. She played a crucial part in the club’s league success. Across all competitions for Kampala Queens FC, she netted at least 20 goals.
On May 30th, 2025, at the prestigious MTN FUFA Awards held at Kampala Serena Hotel, Zainah was crowned Female Footballer of the Year earning a brand-new car as a reward for her excellence and consistency. In addition, she helped the Uganda U20 Women’s team secure a bronze medal at the 2024 African Games in Ghana, further proving her impact on regional and continental stages.
Zainah’s influence extended far beyond her speed and goals. She was a leader, serving as third captain for Kampala Queens. Her versatility transitioning effortlessly between winger and right-back (particularly under national team coach Sheryl Botes)̶and her respect for team values made her a role model. Her discipline, humility, and spirit fostered positivity both on and off the field.
Beyond football, Zainah inspires the next generation. In July 2025, she was named the female football brand ambassador for Twinbrook Schools in Kiteezi. There, she shared insights with young pupils̶encouraging them to pursue their dreams with dedication, discipline, and passion.
