Former Uganda Cranes captain and manager Jimmy Kirunda has been announced dead at 70 years years of age.
The demise of the legendary defender took place on Monday morning, collapsing during his routine walk at La Grand Hotel in Bwaise, a Kampala suburb.
The deceased captained Uganda Cranes for a period of 10 years, leading the team to three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments in 1974, 1976 and 1978.
He also won five CECAFA championships in 1969, 1970, 1973, 1976, and 1977, winning the latter two as captain.
He also played for three Uganda Premier League clubs in Express (1968–1969), KCC (1969–1979) and Sports Club Villa.
Kirunda aka “Kaizer” also had professional stints in the United Arab Emirates at Abu Dhabi Sports Club between 1979-1980.
His coaching career saw him manage Bell FC, Buikwe Red Stars and Cooperatives. As the Cranes national team manager, he lifted the CECAFA titles in 1989, 1990, and 1992.
Notably, he was the league top scorer in the 1978 Uganda Super League with 32 goals.
Details for his send-off will be communicated soon.