By Musa Kikuuno – Sports Writer, Busoga Times | WhatsApp 0756322265
Busoga Kingdom, in collaboration with MTN Uganda, has officially launched the second edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship, locally known as Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga.
The grand launch took place at the Kingdom headquarters in Bugembe on Friday, where His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Kadumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, captivated attendees with his impressive cycling skills, officially setting the championship in motion.
Promoting Unity Through Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga
The cycling championship, designed to promote unity and celebrate sports in the region, will see participants from all eleven chiefdoms of Busoga (Bunha, Luuka, Bulamogi, Bukooli, Bunhole Bunanumba, Busiki, Bugabula, Bukono, Kigulu, Bugweri, and Butembe) competing for glory.
The preliminary races are scheduled to begin on January 18, 2025, with the grand finale set for February 15, 2025, at the kingdom level. Each chiefdom will field four cyclists—two in the Tipper (Gaali Ensoga) category and two in the Mountain Bike category.
Kyabazinga’s Vision for the Championship
The Kyabazinga emphasized the importance of sports in fostering unity and development among his people. His participation in the launch was a symbol of his commitment to inspiring the youth and promoting cultural pride through Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga.
MTN Uganda’s Continued Support
Speaking at the launch, MTN Uganda’s Sponsorship and Events Manager, John Paul Okwi, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering communities through sports.
“We are thrilled to be part of the second edition of Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga. This championship is a testament to the resilience and unity of the people of Busoga. At MTN, we believe in the power of sports to bring about societal change, and we are honored to continue this partnership,” Okwi stated.
Dr. Joseph Muvawala, the Kingdom’s Prime Minister, thanked MTN for its steadfast support and called on participants to uphold discipline and integrity throughout the races.
Preliminary Race Schedule
January 18, 2025: Luuka and Bulamogi
January 19, 2025: Bukooli and Bunhole
January 25, 2025: Busiki and Bunha
January 26, 2025: Bugabula and Bukono
February 1, 2025: Kigulu and Bugweri
February 2, 2025: Butembe
Grand Finale and Awards
Winners of the championship will ride away with prestigious prizes, including brand-new motorcycles. Other awards include:
2nd place: UGX 2,000,000
3rd place: UGX 1,000,000
4th place: UGX 500,000
5th place: UGX 300,000
Cyclists finishing outside the top five will receive a token of UGX 50,000 for their participation.
Celebrating the Legacy of Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga
The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship began in 2022 as a platform to showcase talent and foster community pride. Bukooli emerged victorious in the Tippa category, while Butembe claimed the Mountain Bike title in the inaugural edition.
This year’s edition, spearheaded by the Kyabazinga, promises to strengthen the legacy of Obugaali bwa Amasaza ga Busoga and inspire future generations.
