By Sulaiman Kauki

KAMPALA — Former Uganda Cranes captain Khalid Aucho has retired from international football after 13 years, ending a career that included three Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) appearances and Uganda’s return to the continental tournament after a 38-year absence.

Aucho announced his decision on Monday, October 12, 2026, having made his international debut on November 30, 2013. He earned 77 caps and went on to captain the national team.

The midfielder described representing Uganda as his greatest honour, recalling his childhood dream of playing on football’s biggest stages while working at Bugembe market abattoir in Jinja.

“Growing up as a young boy working at Bugembe market abattoir, my dream was simple: to hear our national anthem echo on the biggest stages of world football,” he said.

Aucho credited faith, hard work and public support for his career, adding that he would continue backing the Cranes despite stepping away from international duty.

“It is now time for a new generation of heroes to step forward, carry the flag, and write their own history. I look forward to supporting them as one of Uganda’s biggest fans,” he said.

Born in Jinja, Aucho began his club career at Jinja Municipal Council FC before playing for Water FC and Simba FC. His subsequent career included spells at Kenya’s Tusker and Gor Mahia, South Africa’s Baroka FC and Tanzania’s Young Africans, among other clubs.

He attended Namagabi Primary School in Kayunga, St Thudus for O-Level and Iganga Mixed School for A-Level.

His retirement closes a 13-year international chapter in which he became one of Uganda’s experienced midfielders and helped lead the Cranes on the continental stage.