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Airtel Uganda re-affirms commitment to support 2023 Masaza season
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The 2022 Airtel – Masaza Cup tournament organized by Buganda Kingdom in partnership with Airtel Uganda has climaxed with Busiro claiming the 2022 Title against Buddu.
Busiro beat Buddu 2-1 in added time of today’s final before a large crowd of Kabaka’s subjects who thronged Wankulukuku stadium.
The Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga congratulated the winners and all the teams that participated in the 2022 tournament.
“This tournament boosts talent among other development opportunities in the region and beyond and I encourage us all to continue being part of the tournaments among other initiatives spearheaded by the Kingdom,” he said, adding that, “We have a longstanding mutual relationship with Airtel Uganda and I want to appreciate them for walking the Masaza Cup journey with us. Hosting such an engagement requires a lot of resources, and we want to thank Airtel for their support that has enabled us to host the tournament successfully each year.”
The 2022 Masaza Cup Football Tournament kicked off in June 2022 with 18 Buganda Kingdom counties contending for the championship title.
Since its inception in 2004, the tournament has produced great talent including Farooq Miya from Mawokota who is currently playing for Çaykur Rizespor a Turkish Football Club, Frank Ssebufu from Buddu presently with Uganda Cranes and Wakiso Giants, among other players who are actively participating in professional football in Uganda and beyond.
Manoj Murali, the Airtel Uganda Managing Director restated their commitment to support sports in Uganda.
“Our participation in the Masaza Cup stems over 5 years, and Airtel Uganda will continue to support the tournament. We attribute this success to the notable leadership of His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II and Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, for extending this partnership opportunity that is a rallying call for men to actively participate in the campaign to end AIDS by 2030,” he revealed,
He said Airtel Uganda recognizes the numerous opportunities that a sport like football presents for the country’s socio-economic development. “We have dedicated resources and time to the growth of grassroot football in Uganda through programs like Airtel Rising Stars and Masaza Cup. We will continue to do so” he added.
Manoj acknowledged the efforts of the Masaza Cup teams, the technical and non-technical personnel who have worked hard to see that the 2022 tournament is a success.
“The teams and individuals who participated in the tournament dedicated their time, displayed great talent and teamwork on and off the pitch. It is this teamwork that builds the grassroot football that supports the growth of professional football in Uganda. Airtel Uganda is pleased to be partners on this journey,” said Manoj.
Meanwhile, Centenary Bank the largest commercial microfinance bank in Uganda has awarded 12 million to Busiro FC, the 2023 Masaza Cup winners. This was handed over by Immaculate Ngulumi the Chief Manager Marketing and Branding after the final match held at Wankulukuku Stadium.
The winners received their cash prize handed over by Ngulumi who congratulated them upon their victory and encouraged them to keep up the good sportsmanship if they are to participate in bigger tournaments.
“Such tournaments are an opportunity for youths to groom their talent and make something out of themselves, I commend the winners especially since it’s their first time winning this cup and pledge the continued support of Centenary bank towards this tournament.”
Speaking about the competition in general and the bank’s contribution, Ngulumi expressed the bank’s commitment in supporting community activities like this.
“This competition has greatly contributed to nurturing young football talent in the Kingdom, giving the young people an opportunity to explore their abilities for a better future. As Centenary bank, we are honored to be part of this ingenuity, as has been for the past years. Our allegiance with the kingdom remains solid as we partner to build young talent through the Masaza Tournament,” Ngulumi added.
