Gladys ZAWEDDE
The First Deputy Katikkiro of Buganda, Hon. Prof. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo, has officially opened a high-level forum for leaders of the Masaza Cup at the Makerere School of Public Health Auditorium, emphasizing the powerful role that football plays in fostering unity, showcasing talent, and driving socio-economic development in the Buganda Kingdom.
Prof. Kaawaase commended the Minister of Sports, Hon. Robert Serwanga, for spearheading the strategic gathering that brought together team leaders from all Masaza (counties) to set the tone for this year’s tournament. He emphasized the importance of early preparation, noting that it is key to the tournament’s success.
“The Masaza Cup is more than just a football tournament it is a cornerstone of Buganda’s cultural and developmental agenda,” Prof. Kaawaase remarked. “It strengthens the Kingdom’s identity, promotes youth talent, boosts local economies, and brings people of different backgrounds together in the spirit of unity.”
He further stressed that sports should be closely integrated with community life, especially in the context of Uganda’s push for federal governance, where grassroots participation is vital.
The Masaza Cup, he added, crosses social, economic, and even religious boundaries, uniting Baganda and non-Baganda, regardless of faith, as long as they reside within the Kingdom.
Prof. Kaawaase also urged all participants to uphold discipline and mutual respect, stating, “Let’s safeguard Buganda’s image by ensuring that good conduct prevails throughout the tournament.”
He applauded the quality of the workshop sessions, particularly the contributions from expert facilitators, and called for extended training time in future sessions to deepen capacity building among Masaza leaders.
The forum featured workshops on health, safety, communication, and strategic partnerships, moderated by Mr. Jamir Ssewanyana, with insights from key experts including; Dr. Joseph Kalanzi, RCC Henry Kitambula, Hajj Ssekabira Lukooya, FUFA’s Ahmed Hussein, David Isabirye, Advocate Derrick Kavuma, Festus Kirumira, Mpiima Samuel and others.
As excitement builds ahead of Masaza Cup 2025, this strategic forum has set a solid foundation for one of Buganda’s most cherished cultural and sporting events.
