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EYES ON THE PRIZE: Bukono Chiefdom targets Masaza Cup glory, urges financial lifeline

Editorial
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EYES ON THE PRIZE: Bukono Chiefdom targets Masaza Cup glory, urges financial lifeline

By Joseph Sooka

Riding high on an impressive start to the 2024 Busoga Masaza Cup, Bukono Chiefdom’s football team is showing immense potential to clinch this year’s coveted trophy. However, their journey to championship glory hinges significantly on robust financial backing.

In a passionate plea aimed at fostering local talent and rallying community spirit, the Hereditary Chief of Bukono, HRH Godfrey Nkono, has called upon the Bakono people and well-wishers, both within and outside the chiefdom, to extend their financial support to the promising squad.

The chief’s crucial message was conveyed by Prime Minister Owek Kabakubya Eridadi, following the team’s outstanding performance in the just-concluded group stage matches. Bukono currently leads the Mawembe group with a convincing 7 points, showcasing a dominant display of skill and teamwork.

“We should support our team regardless of which candidate or political party we support because football brings people together,” Kabakubya stated, emphasizing the unifying power of sports and urging all residents to transcend political divides for the common good of the chiefdom. He also took the opportunity to express profound appreciation to those who have already contributed to the team’s journey in previous games.

The echoes of last year’s tournament still resonate within the chiefdom, as Bukono made a formidable run to the final stage of the Busoga Masaza Cup. While Butembe Chiefdom ultimately lifted the trophy, Bukono’s presence in the final underscored their consistent prowess and hunger for success. “If we support our team financially, it’ll increase their chances of winning the trophy this time,” Kabakubya asserted, linking financial stability directly to enhanced performance and ultimate victory.

Bukono’s formidable run in the ongoing Busoga Masaza Cup has indeed set them apart. Their campaign kicked off with a commanding 2-0 win against Budiope in the tournament opener. This was followed by a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Bugweri, demonstrating their resilience. The highlight of their group stage performance came with a spectacular 4-0 mauling of Bunhole Bunhanumba, securing their top spot in the Mawembe Group.

Currently, Bukono leads the pack with 7 points. Bugweri sits in second place, also on 7 points, while Budiope follows with 3 points. Bunhole Bunhanumba is at the bottom of the group with no points so far.

As Bukono Chiefdom stands on the cusp of a potentially historic victory, the call for financial support is not just about resources; it’s about empowering a dream and uniting a community behind its champions. The collective effort and financial contributions from every corner of the community could very well be the catalyst that propels the Bukono Chiefdom team to raise the Busoga Masaza Cup this year, turning potential into palpable success.

MILLY IS MAD?: Budiope West’s Dennis Mutagaya demands mental examination of minister Babalanda in contempt complaint to tribunal handling NRM primaries irregularities

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MILLY IS MAD?: Budiope West’s Dennis Mutagaya demands mental examination of minister Babalanda in contempt complaint to tribunal handling NRM primaries irregularities

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries in Budiope West Constituency have taken a dramatic turn, with contestant Dennis Mutagaya filing a scathing complaint against the declared winner, presidency minister Milly Babirye Babalanda, before the NRM Elections Disputes Tribunal. Mutagaya alleges “contempt of the tribunal” alongside a raft of election malpractices, even controversially requesting a mental examination for his rival.

Mutagaya’s letter, dated August 4, 2025, details how Babalanda allegedly began circulating “contempt voice messages” on social and local media platforms just days after their July 30, 2025, hearing before the tribunal’s panel. In these messages, Babalanda reportedly declared herself the winner prematurely and launched personal attacks against Mutagaya, labeling him a “marijuana user,” a “witch,” and falsely attributing a local accident to him.

“Before the seven days [for feedback from the tribunal] could elapse, Milly Babirye Babalanda is pronouncing herself a winner,” Mutagaya states in his complaint, adding that the “abusive language used by Babirye Babalanda in her audios does not represent sobriety.”

The contempt claims build upon Mutagaya’s initial petition (case PT-045/2025), which cited numerous electoral malpractices during the NRM primaries. These included alleged alteration of results in 18 polling stations in Buyende Town Council, where Mutagaya claims he presented evidence of manipulated declaration of results (DR) forms, noting Babalanda’s failure to produce her own DR forms in defense.

Other accusations from Mutagaya’s petition comprise polling officials absconding with materials before results declaration, confirmed by video evidence. He also alleged the complete absence of voting activities in multiple polling stations (including Ndolwa, Nkondo, Kidera Town Council, Buyanja, and Bukungu), despite results being posted in Babalanda’s favour. Furthermore, Mutagaya’s petition cited heavy deployment of government forces, police, army, and “goons” during the election.

Perhaps the most striking of Mutagaya’s demands to the tribunal is an order for a “mental examination” of Hon. Milly Babirye Babalanda. Mutagaya asserts, “This is because some of these election issues can mean to mentally disturbing so we might innocently accuse someone yet she is not in her right mental state of mind.” He further requested the tribunal to recommend necessary treatment if she is found not to be mentally sound.

Should she be found “mentally fine,” Mutagaya seeks an order restraining her from commenting on the tribunal matters until judgment is passed. He also requested the tribunal to personally serve Babalanda with copies of the submitted DR forms and “explain to her one by one” to clarify that they pertain to directly elected members of parliament, not women contestants, as she allegedly claimed.

Mutagaya vehemently asserts that Babalanda “never won this election, not even a count of 10 polling station in the whole constituency.” He attributes her declared victory to “beating people, running with DR forms changing results.”

Raising the political stakes, Mutagaya warned the tribunal that mishandling these petitions could lead to the NRM losing Buyende district to the opposition in upcoming elections, highlighting its importance as one of only two districts in Busoga genuinely supporting President Museveni. He cast doubt on Babalanda’s reported 99,000 votes, stating, “I bet she can’t present this figure for President Museveni for the coming elections.”

Mutagaya’s complaint also highlighted Babalanda’s reported security escort, including the RDC, even during her tribunal appearance, which he suggested indicated undue influence. He has submitted audio recordings of Babalanda’s alleged contemptuous remarks as evidence to the tribunal. The NRM Elections Disputes Tribunal is yet to issue its judgment on the matter.

Babirye Milly Babalanda was declared the NRM flag bearer for Budiope West after scoring 99,832 votes bettering Kyoto Ibrahim with 9,995 votes, Mutagaya Denis with 12,940 votes, with Mukisa Edward 471 votes, Tibatesa William 666 votes and Mbaziira Fred with 448 votes. Mutagaya and Kyoto filed separate petitions challenging the ministers victory. The minister maintains she attain a clean victory as voted by the party members in Budiope West.

POWERFUL STAND: Busoga Kingdom halts annual Kagulu Hill Challenge over delayed justice for defiled teen

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POWERFUL STAND: Busoga Kingdom halts annual Kagulu Hill Challenge over delayed justice for defiled teen

The Busoga Kingdom has taken a powerful stand against delayed justice, announcing the indefinite suspension of its highly anticipated annual Kagulu Hill Climbing Challenge, originally slated for August 17th. The decision comes as a direct protest over the protracted and unaddressed case of “Princess Justice” (name changed for child protection), a young girl allegedly gang-defiled by two security officers during last year’s pre-event activities.

The harrowing incident, which saw Princess Justice, then 16 years old, subjected to alleged defilement during the Annual Kagulu Climbing Challenge Tourism Expo in 2024 (reported in the Daily Monitor on September 11, 2024, with case file SD 21/17/8/24 at Irundu Sub County Model Police Post), remains unresolved, nearly a year later. Now a Senior One student, the girl’s plight was brought to the forefront during a recent itinerary meeting in Jinja, organized by the Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) Project – a consortium including Water Aid, Forum for African Women Educationists (FAWE), Right to Play, and FHI 360, dedicated to advancing gender equality and sexual/reproductive health rights.

Speaking passionately at the dialogue with SHARE partners, cultural, religious, and civic leaders, Edward Paul Munaaba, the Busoga Kingdom Minister for General Duties in the Prime Minister’s Office, minced no words in condemning the stalled justice process.

“We can’t celebrate one year of delayed justice and be portrayed as a Kingdom which can’t protect its children,” Munaaba declared. “The Kingdom is morally obliged to protect its subjects and walk the talk of child protection. Going back to the same place and event while the young girl hasn’t yet got justice will be a mockery, not walking the talk of child protection and lending credit to the perpetuators of injustice Busoga is notoriously known for.”

He continued, emphasizing the gravity of the situation: “We therefore halt the event and demand police gives a detailed case progress, and how far they have gone to ensure the girl gets due justice because the Kingdom will be perceived to be an accomplice in the vice.”

Joyce Abaliwano, the Kingdom’s Minister for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, who has been instrumental in counseling and caring for the traumatized survivor, reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment. “The Kingdom cannot condone crime and injustice to its subjects,” she stated, emphasizing efforts to eliminate the “vice of using defilement, child marriages and teenage pregnancies for economic gains” from Busoga.

“These vices are not only criminal but culturally and morally wrong and abominations in the Busoga culture,” Abaliwano stressed, “and we demand government response, action and justice for this girl who has now become a clear litmus case of what goes on in efforts to access justice.”

While commending organizations like Plan International and FAWE, along with Mama Rebecca Kadaga, for their swift response in providing counseling and psychosocial support, Abaliwano highlighted Princess Justice’s ongoing needs, particularly for her education. She revealed that the girl still faces a pending school fees bill of Shs 1.3 million for two terms, a sum that threatens her continued schooling as the headteacher patiently awaits a sponsor.

The Busoga North police region’s annual crime report for 2023 and 2024 paints a grim picture, with 698 defilement cases and 133 aggravated defilement cases registered. It also indicated 49 rape cases, 171 children suffering neglect, and 43 tortured.

Gloria Auma, the FAWE Program Coordinator, applauded the Busoga Kingdom’s decisive action. “We support the Kingdom’s good stand in pursuit for justice and sustained protection of its subjects because justice is bigger and more important than the event,” Auma asserted. “We can’t sacrifice justice for crime, and the Kingdom is setting the pace, putting the children’s agenda right and sending a clearer, stronger and most valued message and lessons to all duty bearers.”

Michael Kanaku, the Buyende District Chairperson, whose district was unfortunately cited as having the highest national crime statistics for defilement last year, lamented the incident. “It is undesirable, unacceptable and a grave insult to our Kyabazinga who is the International Ambassador for Children Protection that a vice committed at his very event can’t see justice what of the local cases,” Kanaku voiced. He further advocated for higher authorities to intervene, critical of security agencies that seem “more concerned on protecting their image and doing a lot of damage control than dispensing justice to the young girl,” especially when the case involves those who are meant to protect.

Busoga North Police spokesperson, Michael Kasadha, called for calm, assuring that police were handling the case sensitively and had resorted to scientific investigation due to its complicated nature. “We went scientific, collected samples from the officers on duty, and we are waiting for the results to take informed action and be assured that due justice will be given,” he stated.

Despite her ordeal, Princess Justice remains remarkably resilient. Speaking to journalists at her school recently, she expressed unwavering faith, stating she has “left everything to the Lord who is the provider, guardian and Chief Judge.” While lamenting that those denying her justice “will also face the same or even worse as individuals or their families,” she expressed optimism that justice, though delayed, will eventually prevail. Her current focus, she said, is securing her future, for which she is grateful to all who have aided in her healing and resettlement.

“Those people broke my virginity and continue to break my trust in security by denying me justice,” she said emotionally. “It haunts and traumatizes them more than it does to me.” She expressed immense gratitude to the health workers at Irundu Health Center who provided her with PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) immediately, which she credits with saving her from HIV/AIDS infection and unwanted pregnancy.

Princess Justice also raised an urgent alarm for countless other girls who, unlike herself, cannot access the necessary attention and services, enduring defilement, rape, and unwanted pregnancies due to ignorance of health services like PEP or inability to afford them. “I am lucky I got media attention, got counseling and now resettled at school thanks to Media, Aunt Joyce, Mama Kadaga, Plan International and FAWE,” she concluded. “Now I stay focused, live tight, happy and confident of the future but many girls are out there worse than myself who need rescue and attention.”

The Busoga Kingdom’s bold move underscores a growing demand for accountability and justice, sending a clear message that cultural heritage and tourism cannot thrive at the expense of its children’s safety and well-being.

GROUP STAGE BATTLES: Who will survive the second round and qualify to the quarterfinals of Busoga Masaza Cup?

Musa Kikuuno
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GROUP STAGE BATTLES: Who will survive the second round and qualify to the quarterfinals of Busoga Masaza Cup?

Saturday, 2nd August

Busiki 1–1 Butembe

Bukono 4–0 Bunhole Bunhanumba

Bugabula 1–0 Luuka

Sunday, 3rd August

Kigulu 2–1 Bukooli Namayingo

Bugweri 1–0 Budiope

Buzaya 0–0 Bulamogi

The first round of the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup concluded over the weekend with 14 teams battling it out across four groups. A total of 31 goals have been scored in three match days, with seven teams—Busiki, Kigulu, Bukono, Buzaya, Bugabula, Bunha, and Bulamogi—finishing the round unbeaten.

Bukono and Bugweri top the overall standings with 7 points each, while Bugabula stands out as the only team with a perfect 100% win record. As attention shifts to the decisive second round, qualification battles intensify in all groups.

Group-by-Group Breakdown

Bukowe Group

Bugabula leads with 6 points and only needs a draw from two second-round matches to confirm qualification. Luuka , on 3 points, can qualify with a draw and a win. Bukooli Bugiri , still pointless, must win both remaining matches to stay alive.

Kagulu Group

All three teams—Bulamogi, Bunha, and Buzaya—are level on 2 points, having drawn all their games. With every team unbeaten and nothing separating them, a single win in the second round could be the difference between progression and elimination.

Mawembe Group

Bukono and Bugweri lead the pack with 7 points each, while Budiope (3 points) has some work to do. Bunhole Bunhanumba remains bottom and winless. For Budiope to qualify, two wins in the second round are crucial. Bukono and Bugweri , both unbeaten, only need one more positive result to confirm their quarterfinal spots.

Nendha Group

Busiki and Kigulu lead with 5 points each, followed closely by Bukooli Namayingo on 3 and Butembe on 2. With each team still in contention, this group remains the most open. The defending champions Butembe must win at least two of their three remaining games to avoid an early exit.

What Lies Ahead

With knockout spots still up for grabs and only a few points separating most teams, the second round promises drama, tension, and potential heartbreak. Teams like Bugabula , Bukono , and Bugweri may seem secure, but in football, nothing is certain until the final whistle blows.

PRESSURE POINTS: Uganda Cranes Coach Byekwaso laments mental collapse in humbling CHAN defeat to Algeria

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PRESSURE POINTS: Uganda Cranes Coach Byekwaso laments mental collapse in humbling CHAN defeat to Algeria

The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 got off to a difficult start for hosts Uganda, as the Cranes succumbed to a humbling 3-0 defeat against Algeria in their opening Group C encounter. Speaking after the match, Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso candidly admitted his side “buckled under pressure,” revealing significant mental and tactical shortcomings that led to their comprehensive loss in front of their home fans.

From the outset, Uganda appeared outclassed, struggling to counter Algeria’s sharp attacking play and compact structure. The defensive organization crumbled early, with Ayoub Ghezala scoring from a set-piece. Subsequent goals from Abderrahmane Meziane and Soufiane Bayazid compounded the Cranes’ misery.

“We came in to give our best, but we failed in our defensive block and paid the price,” Byekwaso stated, highlighting the immediate tactical failure. His deeper concern, however, was the mental fragility of his squad. “The team was anxious. We couldn’t launch transitions, and the pressure was a decisive factor in the loss.”

The emotional impact of conceding early was evident. “After the first goal, we collapsed emotionally. We missed chances, lost the ball cheaply, and failed to manage the game,” the coach admitted. He pointed out glaring issues across the pitch, despite believing in his players’ inherent quality. Tactical deficiencies included a struggle in transition, losing aerial duels despite having a tall squad, and a severe lack of midfield control. “The midfield lacked control, and we were too stretched. We need to tighten up and keep things simple,” he explained, emphasizing the inability to retain possession under pressure.

Despite the disastrous start, Byekwaso remains pragmatic, insisting the tournament is not over. With two crucial group games remaining, he believes qualification is still possible, but only if “we correct our flaws quickly.”

“We’ll talk to the players. We need more control of the game and must strengthen the midfield. We still have two matches to show our real character,” he affirmed, signalling an urgent need for mental recovery and tactical adjustments ahead of their critical second match.

Meanwhile, Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra painted a picture of calm confidence and superior execution. His side’s 3-0 demolition of the hosts was, for him, a testament to their “tactical discipline and superior preparation.”

Playing in a potentially hostile environment at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Bougherra’s men silenced the home crowd with a well-orchestrated performance marked by controlled possession, clinical finishing, and a dynamic attacking trio. “It was a good win. The result reflects the work this group has put in. It wasn’t easy — we were playing away, under pressure — but we dominated technically and tactically,” Bougherra remarked.

Algeria’s opening goal came through Ayoub Ghezala’s header, before Abderrahmane Meziane doubled the advantage with a slick finish and was later named TotalEnergies Man of the Match for his goal and assist. Soufiane Bayazid rounded off the scoring, capping a display that confirmed Algeria’s status as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Their statistical dominance underscored their control: 55% possession, 443 completed passes with 81% accuracy, and five shots on target. Notably, they remained card-free while Uganda picked up three, showcasing their composure. Bougherra attributed this success partly to their domestic league’s early conclusion, which provided more time for cohesion and tactical build-up.

As Algeria basks in the comfort of three early points and a commanding performance, Uganda faces a critical juncture in their CHAN campaign. The Cranes must swiftly regroup, address their admitted mental and tactical shortcomings, and deliver a vastly improved performance in their next match, or risk an early and disappointing exit from a tournament played on home soil.

TAKE NOTE: Here is why the EC has postponed non-unionized workers’ elections  

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TAKE NOTE: Here is why the EC has postponed non-unionized workers’ elections  

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced a postponement of the elections for non-unionised workers’ delegates at the Sub-County, Division, and Town Council levels. Originally slated for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the elections will now take place on Monday, August 18, 2025.

In a statement signed by the EC Chairperson, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Commission cited the need for additional preparations in coordination with the Minister responsible for workers as the reason for the rescheduling.

The elections are part of a nationwide process to select representatives of non-unionised workers who will eventually participate in electing Members of Parliament representing workers.

According to the updated schedule:

  • August 18, 2025 – Sub-County/City Division/Municipal Division conferences will be held. Each will elect 10 delegates, including at least 3 women, to represent them at the City/District level.
  • August 22, 2025 – City/District level conferences will elect 10 more delegates to the Regional Conference.
  • August 25, 2025 – Regional conferences (Northern, Eastern, Central, and Western) will each elect 10 delegates who will join unionised workers in forming the national electoral college for electing Workers’ MPs in early 2026.

To participate, workers must be:

  • Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above,
  • Registered voters,
  • In possession of a valid employment identity card,
  • Not affiliated with any labour union.

Voting will be done by lining up behind candidates, starting with the election of the three required female delegates.

The EC has urged all eligible non-unionised workers to turn up in large numbers and exercise their right to vote. Regional Election Officers, Returning Officers, and Community Development Officers have been instructed to disseminate this information widely.

The final election of Workers’ MPs will take place between January 12 and February 9, 2026.

CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes kick off tournament with high hopes against Algeria’s Desert Foxes at Namboole

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CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes kick off tournament with high hopes against Algeria’s Desert Foxes at Namboole

The Uganda Cranes are set to commence their TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 journey with a highly anticipated clash against the formidable Desert Foxes of Algeria. The crucial Group C encounter is scheduled for Monday at 8:00 PM at the iconic Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, marking the start of a campaign where the Cranes aim to break a long-standing group stage jinx in front of their home crowd.

Co-hosting this edition alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda carries the weight of history, having never progressed beyond the group stages in their six previous CHAN appearances. Placed in a challenging ‘Group of Death’ alongside powerhouses South Africa, Guinea, and Niger, their opening fixture against Algeria is a crucial test, especially considering a 2-0 defeat to the same opponents in the 2011 CHAN.

Despite the daunting task, Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso exuded confidence during the final pre-match briefing. “The boys must have a serious mentality; we are home playing our first game, and it’s very tricky. Our group is a group of death, but we need to have a good start for us to be on the safe side,” Byekwaso stated, emphasizing the importance of a strong opening.

He further assured fans that the squad is fully fit and mentally charged, adding, “The good thing is we don’t have injuries, and every player is willing to play off their hearts in front of our fans.”

Adding to the team’s resolve, skipper Allan Okello, set to make his maiden CHAN debut, spoke of the collective responsibility needed on the pitch and the hunger within the squad to break new ground.

“Being a leader is a blessing from God; however, on the pitch, everyone must be a leader to know what should be done. We are more than ready; we need to give it our best. Every player wants to make history for the first time, so everyone will give their best,” Okello affirmed.

Okello drew valuable lessons from their most recent clash with Algeria, a narrow 2-1 loss in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Namboole. “We played them in the World Cup qualifiers and lost, but we learned from our mistakes, so there’s no room for other mistakes. We need to make history in front of our fans, so we are prepared.”

He passionately urged supporters to fill Namboole, recognizing their immense impact: “You can get tired for some minutes, but when you hear voices behind you, you push on. So, we need fans to fill up Namboole tomorrow and in all the upcoming games; we can make history together.”

Meanwhile, Algeria head coach Madjid Bougherra acknowledged Uganda’s hospitality but maintained his side’s readiness for the challenge. “I thank Uganda for the reception. The country is peaceful. We are ready to face Uganda. We know what it means playing with your fans home, but we are prepared for it,” Bougherra remarked.

He anticipates a tough encounter, stating, “We expect a tough game. We know Uganda will do anything to make their fans proud. It’s a good game to start with — when you win it, it puts you there as a competitor of the championship.”

Bougherra, however, sought to shift the psychological burden onto the hosts, concluding, “We need to take it game by game. It’s a different competition as teams change, so everyone starts as a favorite. We want to go as far as possible. The pressure is on Uganda as they are home, not us.”

The most recent clash between these two nations was indeed the aforementioned 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, where Uganda succumbed to a narrow 2-1 defeat at Namboole, with Travis Mutyaba securing Uganda’s sole goal.

As the Cranes prepare to step onto their home turf, the blend of historical aspiration, a challenging group, and palpable determination from both players and coaching staff sets the stage for a thrilling tournament opener. All eyes will be on Namboole as Uganda seeks to write a new chapter in its CHAN history.

Full Uganda Cranes Squad – CHAN 2024

Goalkeepers:

  • Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC)
  • Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)
  • Chrispas Kusiima (Kitara FC)

Defenders:

  • Arnold Odong (SC Villa)
  • Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC)
  • Gideon Odong (NEC FC)
  • Herbert Achai (KCCA FC)
  • Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
  • Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC)
  • Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC)
  • Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC)

Midfielders:

  • Joseph Youngman Marvin (Vipers SC)
  • Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa)
  • Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa)
  • Allan Okello (KCCA FC)
  • Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC)
  • Enock Ssebagala (Vipers SC)
  • Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC)

Forwards:

  • Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC)
  • Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC)
  • Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC)
  • Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC)
  • Reagan Mpande (SC Villa)
  • Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC)
  • Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC)

MASAZA CUP: Bukono run riot, Busiki fans cause chaos; all eyes on super Sunday showdowns

Musa Kikuuno
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MASAZA CUP: Bukono run riot, Busiki fans cause chaos; all eyes on super Sunday showdowns

Saturday Results – 2nd August

Bukono 4–0 Bunhole Bunhanumba

Busiki 1–1 Butembe

Bugabula 1–0 Luuka

 Sunday Fixtures – 3rd August

Buzaya vs Bulamogi (Lwanyama Primary School)

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo (Iganga Technical Institute – LIVE on Baba TV)

Bugweri vs Budiope (Busesa Mixed P/S Ground)

Saturday’s Masaza Cup action delivered fireworks as Bukono cruised past Bunhole Bunhanumba in a 4-0 demolition, while drama unfolded in Kisiki as Busiki’s draw with Butembe ended in chaos. With just one match day left to wrap up the first round, Sunday promises blockbuster clashes across three grounds.

 Mupere Hat-trick Headlines Bukono Brilliance

Joel Mupere was the standout performer of the day, bagging a sensational hat-trick to power Bukono to a resounding 4-0 win at Ivukula Sub-county Headquarters. Emmanuel Nabola added the fourth as Bukono stamped their authority atop the Mawembe group with 7 points from three games.

Mupere’s treble sends him top of the tournament scoring charts with three goals, while Nabola joins Euku Simon (Busiki) and Umaru Baluzilye (Luuka) on two apiece. The edition has now seen 27 goals scored.

 Violence Mars Kisiki Clash

At Kisiki College, Busiki and Butembe battled to a 1-1 draw, but it was fan behavior that stole the spotlight. After Ashiraf Ssemmanda cancelled out Ivan Nakalanda’s opener for Butembe, angry Busiki fans stormed the pitch, seriously injuring Butembe player Kibirege Obadiah Martin, who was later rushed to Namutumba Health Center three for medical attention.

Busiki stay top of the Nendha group with 5 points, while Butembe finish the round with just 2 points from three matches.

 Bugabula Stay Perfect

At Kamuli Municipal Stadium, Bugabula sealed a second straight win with a 1-0 result over Luuka, thanks to Ayebale Samuel’s first-half strike. With 6 points, Bugabula comfortably top the Bukowe group and are among the early favorites for the knockout stage.

 Super Sunday Showdowns – What’s at Stake

The final day of the first round sees three huge matches across the region:

 Buzaya vs Bulamogi (Lwanyama Primary School)

Both teams seek their first win in the Kagulu group. Buzaya boasts a strong home record while Bulamogi carries a worrying trend of away losses.

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo (Iganga Technical Institute – LIVE on Baba TV)

Kigulu aim to protect their home fortress. Bukooli Namayingo, fresh from victory, hope to break a two-year away curse.

 Bugweri vs Budiope (Busesa Mixed P/S)

With qualification on the line, this match is personal. Bugweri seek revenge after being eliminated by Budiope last year at the same venue.

OPTIONS: What Uganda could have done better through CHAN 2024

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OPTIONS: What Uganda could have done better through CHAN 2024

By Jumbwike Sam

Experiencing air travel for the first time can be exhilarating. I arrived at Entebbe Airport 8 hours before the check-in time for my 8:00am SAA flight and kept around the then tiny lounge. I had been having hallucinations the week prior to the flight about missing the plane by a whisker, arriving at the airport when the gates had just been closed, and so many other imaginings, so I found it safer to keep around the airport hours ahead on the day of the flight.

Relief only came after hearing the plane’s engines roaring to life and lifting off the ground for our southward 4-hour journey to the chilly Oliver Tambo Airport, where I had to wait for two hours for the connecting 2-hour flight to Cape Town Airport. By the time I entered the Combi for the 70 km drive from the airport to Wellington, I was already exhausted from sleep deprivation. I obeyed nature and dozed off for the longer part of the journey. We arrived at Bergkroon Faith Center towards 8:00pm, where I met over 30 other exhausted souls from 27 countries across the world. We were briefed, offered dinner, and advised to rest at the earliest opportunity in preparation for an early morning journey to an undisclosed location.

We were woken up at 5:00am, grouped into 3 categories, and put into vans for a 150km drive from Wellington towards Genandedal. The vehicles stopped at Greyton, and we were issued with maps that would lead us to our final destination, which was 6-8 km away, and we had to reach there on foot through the countryside routes. Each group was tasked to engage in conversations that would be told to the other groups about their countries of origin and the host country, South Africa.

South Africa had hosted the 2010 World Cup some months earlier before our arrival. In the buildupto the tournament, international media had been stained with skepticism about SA’s ability to host the rest of the world with its image as one of the countries with the highest crime rates in the world. The Guardian has reported a 41% increase in business theft, a 27% increase in residential burglary, and high rates of sex offenses, including rape, kidnapping, and assault, and here we were comfortably trekking through the hilly plains of Greyton without any security less than a year after the World Cup.

South Africa had capitalized on the tournament to reposition itself as a modern, stable, and welcoming nation, emphasizing its cultural diversity and infrastructural development aimed at counteracting the negative perceptions fueled by crime and political history and promoting a narration of unity and progress. They positioned SA a catalyst for social development and tourism growth and as an investment destination. By the time we reached Genadedal, only good stories had been told of the post-World Cup South Africa. Our subsequent visits to townships like Kayamandi and Kayelisha showed the World Cup projects, like the hope for soccer and legacy projects, that were used for social transformation in health, education, and community infrastructure.

Uganda’s Missed Opportunities in CHAN 2025

3-4 years ago, my contemporary friend who had retired from semiprofessional football acquired exclusive rights to generate sports-related content in East Africa for the Soccer Africa Show on SuperSport TV channels 2, 8, and 10 on behalf of MediaMora, DSTV’s content provider. For the past 18 months, my friend has been knocking on all offices that matter in Uganda, seeking an opportunity to utilize the CHAN season and market Uganda’s tourist sites, culture, and soccer clubs to over 15 million viewers across the African continent. He had planned to plant over 10 million trees across the country and promote health and social cohesion projects that highlight the uniqueness of Uganda’s talent. Some of the red zones, like Kireka near sports facilities like Mandela National Stadium, had been targeted to have special collaborative interventions with key populations through soccer. Unfortunately, the influential powers that run the sector seem to be preoccupied with very many other activities to respond to even basic mail; others are paranoid and fear the unknown, while others are simply interested in making a killing off the tournament. We have missed out on the opportunity of involving Ugandans beyond football during CHAN, and we hope that things will be different by the time we get to AFCON 2027.

BALLSY MOVE: David Mugabi declares candidacy to unseat Yoweri Museveni as Uganda’s president

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BALLSY MOVE: David Mugabi declares candidacy to unseat Yoweri Museveni as Uganda’s president

In a bold move signaling a potential generational shift in Ugandan politics, 28-year-old David Mugabi, a professional secondary teacher and Secretary General of the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council, has officially announced his intention to contest for the presidency in Uganda’s 2026 general elections. Speaking from Speke Courts Hotel in Jinja, the proud Musoga from Mayuge District set his sights directly on challenging long-serving incumbent President Yoweri Museveni.

At just 28, Mugabi represents a new crop of leaders, many of whom have grown up entirely under President Museveni’s decades-long rule and are now seeking to redefine Uganda’s political landscape. His background as a teacher suggests a grounded understanding of societal needs, while his leadership within the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council positions him as a voice for the younger demographic and regional interests.

Mugabi’s declaration was not merely an announcement of candidacy; it was a scathing indictment of the current regime. He accused President Museveni of holding Uganda “at gunpoint,” a stark metaphor for what he described as a governance system thriving on corruption and fear. Mugabi did not hold back, asserting that the nation has “suffered for too long under a regime that thrives on corruption and fear.”

Brandishing a broom – his chosen campaign symbol – Mugabi vividly articulated his resolve to “sweep out the thieves” he claims have plundered the nation’s wealth and betrayed public trust. This potent imagery underscores his message of radical change and accountability. “I stand for a Uganda that is free, fair, and focused on the future,” Mugabi told reporters, emphasizing his commitment to a new era of governance.

Beyond the symbolic, Mugabi laid out tangible aspirations for his potential government. He pledged to ensure “all Ugandans enjoy their rights in terms of social infrastructure,” signaling a focus on improving basic services and public amenities. He also promised “better payments” for civil servants across different sectors, recognizing them as “the backbone of this country” and essential for effective governance.

A particularly striking aspect of his vision revolves around Uganda’s vast natural resources. Mugabi highlighted the potential for indigenous processing of resources like “Gold from Busia, silica from Gulu, cobalt from Kasese” – currently vital for global tech components from computers to smartphones. He proposed that Ugandan professionals, graduating from local universities, could process these resources domestically, fostering local industry, creating jobs, and ensuring that the nation’s wealth benefits its own people directly.

Mugabi’s entry into the presidential race adds a new dimension to the unfolding political drama ahead of 2026. His candidacy, though nascent, will likely resonate with a significant portion of Uganda’s largely youthful population, many of whom are yearning for fresh leadership and alternative approaches to governance. As opposition momentum builds, David Mugabi’s bold challenge sets the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes and keenly watched election cycle. While the path to State House is undeniably arduous for any challenger in Uganda, David Mugabi’s declaration marks him as a formidable new voice in the political arena, offering a vision of hope and accountability against a well-entrenched establishment.

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