The much-anticipated 2025 Airtel Masaza Cup has formally been launched at a vibrant ceremony held on the Bulange gardens in Mengo, marking the twenty first version of the distinguished soccer event. Organized below the stewardship of the Buganda Kingdom and proudly sponsored by Airtel Uganda, the Masaza Cup continues to be a cultural cornerstone and a strong platform for nurturing soccer expertise throughout the area.
Defending champions Buddu Saza will host Gomba Saza, one of many event’s historic giants, within the opening match set for Saturday, June 21 at Kitovu. The encounter guarantees to set the tone for what is anticipated to be an exhilarating season crammed with fierce competitors and a celebration of Buganda’s sporting heritage.
Buddu and Gomba recive jerseys for the opening match
In his keynote handle, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, highlighted the transformative position of sports activities in nationwide growth.
“Sports activities will not be merely for the enjoyment one receives on the pitch, however the advantages are immense. It presents employment, builds the physique and soul, bridges gaps, strengthens unity, and raises income by way of taxes,” he stated.
He emphasised that sports activities just like the Masaza Cup contribute considerably to social and financial growth and harassed the necessity for extra funding in sporting infrastructure.
The Katikkiro additionally conveyed a directive from Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II mandating that beginning in 2026, each Masaza Cup workforce ought to transition into a completely registered soccer membership. This transfer goals to make sure year-round competitiveness and elevate the usual of soccer within the kingdom.
In a powerful attraction, he referred to as for self-discipline and integrity all through the event, discouraging malpractice comparable to the usage of witchcraft.
Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu, reiterated the telecom firm’s unwavering assist for Buganda Kingdom’s actions and the Masaza Cup.
Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu
“We’re honoured to proceed this partnership which celebrates unity, heritage, and sporting excellence. Our funding on this event will not be solely about soccer—it additionally helps foster behaviour change, particularly within the combat towards HIV,” Sahu remarked.
He additionally introduced the launch of particular Masaza Cup bundles that can enable Airtel prospects to remain related with inexpensive voice and information packages throughout the event.
Talking on the official launch occasion at Bulange Mengo, Plascon Model Supervisor Daniel Kayongo delivered a passionate handle that underscored the model’s deep-rooted partnership with the Kingdom and its dedication to empowering communities by way of sport.
Daniel Kayongo from Plascon addressing the media
“It fills me with nice pleasure to face earlier than you as we speak as we formally launch the 2025 Masaza Cup,” Kayongo started. “This event embodies the spirit, expertise, and unity of the Buganda Kingdom.”
Since changing into co-sponsors in 2023, Plascon’s involvement within the Masaza Cup has transcended conventional sponsorship. The corporate’s relationship with the Buganda Kingdom is constructed on a shared imaginative and prescient to uplift communities, protect cultural heritage, and supply alternatives for future generations.
Masza Cup organising committee led by Chairman Sulaiman Ssejengo (C) on mic
“Our collaboration has prolonged past simply paint,” Kayongo famous. “From refurbishing Bulange Mengo and Twekobe to supporting agriculture, training, and healthcare initiatives, Plascon has walked hand-in-hand with the Kingdom in nation-building.”
He concluded by honoring the Kingdom’s management: “Your Excellency, the Katikkiro, thanks to your visionary management. To Buganda Kingdom, Plascon says: We’re with you — as we speak, tomorrow, and for so long as the drums of Buganda beat.”
The Chairman of the Airtel Buganda Masaza Cup organising committee, Suleiman Ssejjengo, highlighted the event’s financial affect, revealing that every matchday gives direct employment to over 4,500 people throughout Buganda.
This yr’s version will characteristic 104 matches, unfold throughout 16 matchdays, culminating within the remaining on November 1. The event brings collectively groups from the 18 conventional counties (Masaza) of Buganda, showcasing each aggressive spirit and cultural pleasure.
Greater than only a soccer competitors, the Airtel Masaza Cup has cemented its standing as a significant cultural and sporting occasion in Uganda. It serves as a platform for figuring out and growing younger expertise, fostering unity, and preserving the wealthy heritage of the Buganda Kingdom.
Because the 2025 version kicks off, all eyes are on Buddu and Gomba as they reignite their rivalry, setting the stage for what guarantees to be one other memorable season of grassroots soccer at its most interesting.
