Former Uganda Cranes forward Sulaiman “Mike” Mutyaba takes helm at Zana Mixed, poised to rignite STAHIZA rivalry
In a significant development in Ugandan school football, former Uganda Cranes striker Mike Sulaiman Mutyaba has assumed the role of Head Coach at Zana Mixed Secondary School, succeeding the departed Kigoonya Alex.
Mutyaba’s appointment marks a new chapter in the storied rivalry between Zana Mixed and his former alma mater, Standard High School Zzana (STAHIZA).
With an impressive playing pedigree, Mutyaba is tasked with building a formidable team capable of conquering the Agrey Zone championship.
His immediate goal is to lead Zana Mixed to the Wakiso District championships and ultimately, the National Boys football tournament scheduled to take place at Lira Town College in May.
Mutyaba’s arrival is expected to inject fresh energy into Zana Mixed’s football program, and his experience as a former national team player will undoubtedly be a valuable asset in shaping the school’s football fortunes.
As the teams from Zana prepare to clash once again, the stage is set for an intriguing battle of wides.
Mutyaba was officially appointed at STAHIZA as head coach on Saturday, 21 October 2023, signing a two year contract at the school premises.
He succeeded another former Cranes international, Nestroy Kizito, who had held the post since the COVID‑19 pandemic in 2020.
A CAF‑licensed tactician, Mutyaba’s coaching journey began after his playing days were cut short—first by a knee injury in 2016 and later by a heart condition in 2020.
He honed his skills at Nabbingo Young Football Club (fourth division), served as assistant to Simon Peter Mugerwa during the Buganda Masaza Cup, and briefly joined Express FC as assistant coach under Baker Mbowa in March 2024 before resigning after a heavy 7‑0 league defeat to Kitara FC.
Playing Legacy
Born 23 March 1991 in Kampala, the 1.66 m forward was a versatile attacker equally at home on either wing or up front.
He rose through Express FC’s academy to debut with Bunamwaya SC, then dazzled overseas with Sudanese giants El‑Merreikh (2011–2013) and DR Congo’s TP Mazembe (2013–2014).
He also spent time at Vipers SC, Express FC, and KCCA FC (2018–2020).
During his playing days he was one of Uganda’s most marketable players, commanding deals worth $80,000 from El‑Merreikh and $600,000 from TP Mazembe.
He earned caps for Uganda’s U‑23, U‑20 “Hippos”, and the senior national team (debut 2011, five caps, no goals).
Beyond football, Mutyaba runs the Sulaiman Mutyaba Foundation, which partners with schools to nurture young talent.
