David GOMBE
Buddu have emerged as the winner of the 20th Edition of the Masaza Cup defeating Kyaggwe in a 1-0 win at the fully packed Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.
Mike Walaga inspired Buddu to their third Masaza Cup triumph heading home a Pius Ssebulime perfect cross in the first half at the newly revamped Mandela National Stadium in Namboole.
The final of the prestigious tournament returned to Namboole for the first since the 2019 edition when Bulemeezi overcame Busiro at the same venue.
The match was graced by the Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
The thrilling encounter saw both teams push to their limits, with Buddu showcasing remarkable resilience and tactical skill to secure the win.
Kyaggwe, challenged Buddu at every turn, making for an exhilarating display of football.
18 teams from the 18 counties participated in the tournament.
This year’s edition was themed around fighting against HIV and AIDS, rallying the men in the kingdom and the country at large to join in the fight to end HIV/AIDS by 2030.
Ali Balunywa, Director Sales and Distribution, Airtel Uganda congratulated the winners on their win and thanked them for their unwavering dedication to their counties.
He said, “I congratulate both teams for the spirit and skill they brought to the game, Buddu for the win and Kyaggwe for the resilient fight.
Such tournaments mean that the players have a platform from where they can be scouted to play in other leagues. As Airtel Uganda, we are proud when young talent is nurtured to greater heights.”
“I want to thank the Kabaka for his presence at the game and the love that he has always shown to his people. Airtel remains committed to supporting initiatives that unite and inspire the youth. We look forward to witnessing and being part of the next edition of the tournament,” Balunywa added.
The Masaza Cup is a football tournament introduced in 2004 by the Buganda Kingdom to groom talent among youth across the different counties, or Masaza, that make up the Buganda Kingdom and the surrounding regions.
Speaking on behalf of the Kingdom, Oweek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikiro of Buganda re-echoed the purpose of the tournament. He said,
“This year’s tournament was a continued celebration of sportsmanship and unity, and we commend Buddu for their outstanding victory as well as Kyaggwe for their commendable performance. We are mostly grateful for the Kabaka’s presence which reflects the importance of this tournament to our heritage and the strength it brings to Buganda. I also extend my appreciation to our partners like Airtel Uganda for their support”
“The Masaza Cup continues to be a cherished tradition, bringing together communities and showcasing the rich talent across the kingdom,” Balunywa concluded.
As the tournament ends, attention now turns to future editions, as teams and fans alike look forward to more remarkable moments in Ugandan football.
All Masaza Cup Winners:
2024 – Buddu
2023 – Bulemeezi
2022 – Busiro
2021 – Buddu
2020 – Gomba
2019 – Bulemeezi
2018 – Singo
2017 – Gomba
2016 – Buddu
2015 – Singo
2014 – Gomba
2013 – Mawokota
2012 – Bulemeezi
2011 – Buluuli
2010 – Not Held
2009 – Gomba
2008 – Kyaddondo
2007 – Mawokota
2006 – Kooki
2005 – Mawokota
2004 – Gomba
