David GOMBE
Kansai Plascon Uganda has continued its support for grassroots football development and community empowerment as a co-sponsor of the 2026 Masaza Cup tournament, building on a partnership with the tournament that has been in place since 2023.
Now in its 22nd edition, the Masaza Cup remains one of Uganda’s most influential grassroots football tournaments, bringing together 18 counties from across Buganda in a competition that continues to promote talent, unity, discipline, cultural pride and community participation.
The 2026 season is set to kick off on Saturday, June 13, 2026, with defending champions Buweekula taking on Kyaddondo at NTC Mubende Stadium in Buweekula. The opening fixture is expected to set the tone for another exciting season of football, fan passion and cultural celebration across the Kingdom.
As part of the opening round of fixtures, Plascon-sponsored Buddu FC will begin its campaign against Buluuli on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Kitovu Sports Arena. Plascon’s support for both the wider Masaza Cup tournament and Buddu FC reflects the brand’s long-term belief in the power of football to create opportunity, strengthen communities and inspire young people.
“Plascon is proud to continue standing with Buganda Kingdom in supporting the Masaza Cup, a tournament that has grown into one of the most important platforms for grassroots football development in Uganda. Beyond the competition, the Masaza Cup brings communities together, creates opportunities for young players, and celebrates the rich cultural identity of Buganda through sport. As a brand, we believe in partnerships that uplift people, and our continued support reflects our commitment to nurturing talent and strengthening community pride,” said Daniel Kayongo, the Plascon Head of Marketing.
Over the years, the Masaza Cup has grown into more than a football competition. It has become a powerful movement that unites communities across Buganda, gives young footballers a platform to showcase their talent, and contributes to the development of Uganda’s wider football ecosystem. Many players who have featured in the tournament have gone on to play at higher levels, including the Uganda Premier League and the national team.
Speaking at the launch, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, said the Masaza Cup remains an important platform for uniting people within the Kingdom of Buganda and across Uganda, noting that many players who have featured in the tournament have gone on to represent the country at the highest level. He added that beyond promoting unity, the tournament continues to discover and develop talent, provide meaningful engagement for young people, create income opportunities within the football ecosystem, and mobilise communities around important causes such as the fight against HIV/AIDS.
For Plascon, the tournament aligns strongly with the brand’s Twaake platform, which celebrates unity, colour, passion and collective pride. Through Twaake, Plascon continues to rally fans to support their teams while reinforcing the connection between sport, identity and community spirit.
“Our sponsorship of both the Masaza Cup and Buddu FC speaks to Plascon’s long-term belief in the power of football to inspire young people and transform communities. The tournament gives players from across the 18 counties a chance to showcase their talent, while also creating moments of unity, passion and shared identity among fans. As the 2026 edition begins, we are excited to see another season of discipline, teamwork and excellence, and we wish Buddu FC and all participating teams a successful tournament,” Kayongo added.
Plascon’s partnership with the Buganda Kingdom extends beyond football. Over the years, the brand has worked closely with the Kingdom on initiatives that support culture, heritage, community development and social progress. These include contributions towards the refurbishment of key Kingdom landmarks such as Bulange Mengo and Twekobe, as well as support for initiatives in areas such as agriculture, education and healthcare.
