Vula struck shortly before half-time, heading Allan Okello’s free-kick into the net to give Uganda a deserved lead after a competitive opening period.
Onyango keeps Uganda ahead
Libya created some dangerous opportunities, but veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango produced several important saves to protect Uganda’s advantage.
Onyango denied Libya’s Ezzeddin Elmaremi on more than one occasion, including a crucial stop in the first half.
Uganda also threatened through Nathan Asiimwe, Allan Okello and Rogers Mato, but the hosts were unable to add a second goal.
Libya came close to equalising in the 75th minute when Elmaremi missed from close range with the goal at his mercy.
Cranes hold on for victory
Paul Put made changes in the second half as Uganda looked to preserve the lead.
Vula was replaced by Kevin Owusu Boateng in the 59th minute, while Denis Omedi and Allan Oyirwoth were later introduced as Uganda sought to maintain their energy and defensive organisation.
The Cranes successfully protected their advantage until the final whistle to record their first victory of the qualifying campaign.
The result moves Uganda to four points from two matches in Group H after their opening 1–1 draw away to Tunisia.
Uganda are already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON finals as one of the co-hosts alongside Kenya and Tanzania. The Group H qualifiers will determine the additional team from the group that qualifies for the tournament.
Match result
• Uganda: Arnold Vula 45'
• Libya: No goals
Uganda 1–0 Libya
The victory also provided a memorable opening-night result for Hoima City Stadium, which hosted its first Uganda Cranes AFCON qualifying match.