KAMPALA, Uganda — Airtel Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom have officially launched the 2026 edition of the Airtel Masaza Cup, reaffirming their commitment to youth empowerment, grassroots football development and community transformation across Uganda.
The launch, held in Kampala on June 10, marks the 22nd edition of the tournament, one of Uganda’s most prominent cultural and sporting events. The competition brings together all 18 counties (Masaza) of Buganda Kingdom and has become a key platform for identifying football talent while promoting social cohesion and public health awareness.
Speaking at the launch, Airtel Uganda Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Soumendra Sahu hailed the Buganda Kingdom for its continued commitment to nurturing young talent through sports.
“Today, as we launch the 22nd edition of the Airtel Masaza Cup, we are grateful to His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda and the Katikkiro for their vision and dedication to supporting grassroots football development through the Masaza Cup and Bika Tournaments,” Sahu said.
He noted that the tournament has evolved beyond football to become a platform for promoting social causes and positive behavioural change.
“As Airtel Uganda, we are honored to continue this partnership, which not only develops football talent across the country but also unites communities around important social causes. The tournament has become a platform for driving positive behavioral change through initiatives such as HIV/AIDS awareness, Emmwanyi Terimba, and other community-focused programs,” he added.
The 2026 competition will kick off with defending champions Buweekula hosting Kyaddondo at the National Teachers’ College Grounds in Mubende. Matches will then continue across the kingdom, attracting thousands of supporters from all 18 counties competing for this year’s title.
Launching the tournament, Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga expressed appreciation to Airtel and other partners for supporting sports development and public health initiatives.
“I am delighted to launch another Airtel Masaza Cup season and equally pleased that Ugandans and our partners continue to walk this journey with us as we promote talent, advance sports development, and strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS in Uganda,” Mayiga said.
He emphasized the role of sports in fostering unity and national development, noting that many players who have represented Uganda internationally first showcased their abilities in the Masaza Cup.
“Buganda relies on sports to unite people within the Kingdom and across Uganda. The Masaza Cup brings together people from different backgrounds and regions, creating a shared sense of purpose and identity. Many players who have represented Uganda at the national level first showcased their talent in the Masaza Cup before going on to fly the national flag,” he said.
Mayiga also highlighted the role of sports in advancing health campaigns, particularly HIV/AIDS awareness, an area championed by the Kabaka.
“As you are aware, His Majesty the Kabaka is a Goodwill Ambassador in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Through football and other sporting activities, we are able to mobilize communities and spread important health messages that improve lives,” he said.
The Katikkiro commended Airtel for consistently supporting major Buganda Kingdom initiatives, including the Kabaka Birthday Run, the Bika Tournament, coronation celebrations and the Masaza Cup.
“Airtel has consistently supported key Kingdom programs. We are grateful for their willingness to walk with us on this journey. When Airtel supports Kingdom initiatives, it does so in the spirit of serving our people, and we encourage the people of Buganda and Uganda to reciprocate by supporting Airtel’s products and services,” Mayiga added.
For more than two decades, the Airtel Masaza Cup has served as a breeding ground for football talent and a unifying force across communities in Buganda. Organisers say the tournament continues to provide opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities while strengthening community engagement.
Sahu said Airtel remains committed to creating opportunities for young Ugandans through sports, connectivity and digital inclusion.
“Through initiatives aligned with this tournament, Airtel remains committed to creating pathways, whether through connectivity, digital tools, or direct support, that give young Ugandans a genuine shot at a better future,” he said.
The 2026 Airtel Masaza Cup is expected to draw large crowds across Buganda and further cement its status as one of Uganda’s premier grassroots football competitions.