Local football giants, Express, seem to be in ascendency since Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi took over the reins at the Wankulukuku side last month.

The State Minister for Youth and Children affairs, Nakiwala, appointed Express FC chairperson early June, promised to find the team’s long lost friends and revive the club at her very first public appearance as the new boss.

Hardly a month in charge, the indicators are promising. The six-time league champions, Express, on Friday organised a thanksgiving party at Wankulukuku Stadium with the aim of raising funds to help the club in the ongoing local transfer activities.

More than Shs100m (Shs30m in cash), according to the organisers, was collected on the day.

Of that, the Uganda Police pledged to contribute Shs30m, with Kiyingi (husband to club chairperson Nakiwala) and former Fufa president Lawrence Mulindwa chipping in with Shs10m each.

At the same event, where the Red Eagle’s former players also took part in exhibition games, the club offices were also opened, including a merchandise shop. Former club leaders and donors were also recognised.

New club brand ambassador Bobi Wine, Geoffrey Lutaaya, Dax Kartel and Abbey Mukiibi entertained the crowd with absorbing performances.