Busiro Triumphs as Airtel-Masaza Cup Champions

The Masaza cup Finals were held on Saturday between Busiro and Buddu organized by Buganda Kingdom in partnership with Airtel Uganda.

Busiro beat Buddu 2-1 at the finals before a large crowd of Kabaka’s subjects who thronged Wankulukuku stadium.

Pacy winger Isaac Ofoyrwoth and stylish midfielder Masuudi Kafumbe netted for the champions.

Buddu’s consolation came from Denis Kalanzi.

The winners and all participating teams of the 2022 tournament were congratulated by Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda.

“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.”
Charles Peter Mayiga

The 2022 Masaza Cup Football Tournament kicked off in June 2022 with 18 Buganda Kingdom counties contending for the championship title.

The tournament, which was established in 2004, has been a breeding ground for exceptional talent such as Farooq Miya from Mawokota, who currently plays for the Turkish football club Çaykur Rizespor, Frank Ssebufu from Buddu, who is now part of the Uganda Cranes and Wakiso Giants, as well as other players who are currently active in professional football in Uganda and beyond.

“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,”
Manoj Murali, the Airtel Uganda Managing Director

The spokesperson mentioned that Airtel Uganda acknowledges the various prospects that a sport like a football provides for the socio-economic progress of the country. They have committed both resources and time to develop grassroots football in Uganda through initiatives like Airtel Rising Stars and Masaza Cup, and they plan to continue doing so.

The champions claimed the cash prize of UGX 12,000,000/=, gold medals and a glittering trophy.

The runners-up (Buddu) took silver medals and UGX 9,000,000/=.

“The teams and individuals who participated in the tournament dedicated their time and displayed great talent and teamwork on and off the pitch. It is this teamwork that builds grassroots football that supports the growth of professional football in Uganda. Airtel Uganda is pleased to be partners on this journey,” said Manoj.

Following the final match held at Wankulukuku Stadium, Immaculate Ngulumi, the Chief Manager of Marketing and Branding of Centenary Bank, the largest commercial microfinance bank in Uganda, presented 12 million to Busiro FC, the winners of the 2023 Masaza Cup.

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.

Teams Played at the Masaza Cup Final