Airtel pledges more as stage readies for 20th edition of Buganda Masaza tourney
In partnership with the Buganda Kingdom, Airtel Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an environment for the youth can thrive through sports with the launch of the 20th edition of the Masaza Cup tournament.
The announcement was made on Wednesday at Bulange in Mengo.
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Speaking during the launch, Ali Balunywa, the sales and distribution director, Airtel Uganda said this is yet another opportunity to support talent in Buganda.
“Today we gather once again to launch the Masaza Cup tournament which is now in its 20th
edition. The tournament serves as a flagship initiative to promote unity, preserve cultural heritage, and foster sportsmanship in the country and on behalf of Airtel Uganda. I would like to
express our gratitude for allowing us to be part of this prestigious event," Balunywa said.
“Over the years, the Masaza Cup has grown to become more than just a football tournament. It
is a celebration of culture, a platform for young talent to shine, and a conducive ground for
socio-economic networking. Sports has the power to transform lives and the Masaza Cup
embodies this ideal perfectly as we once again use the platform to rally the masses to join in the
fight to end HIV/AIDs by 2030.'
A total of 18 teams from the 18 counties will participate in the tournament and similar to the past four editions.
“The impact of the Masaza Cup over the past 19 editions has been profound. The tournament
has unearthed football talents who have gone on to represent Uganda on national and
international stages. Players like Fahad Bayo (Ssingo), Abdu Aziz, and Halid Lwaliwa
(Mawokota) are shining lights in the recent Uganda Cranes team. The tournament has also strengthened the bonds within communities, and it has inspired countless young people to
pursue their dreams, giving them a Reason to Imagine,” Airtel's Ali Balunywa noted
The opening match of the 2024 Masaza Cup will see Bulemezi take on Buluuli at Kasana
grounds in Luweero District on June 22, 2024.
This year’s tournament will rally the men of the kingdom and fellow Ugandans to join in
the fight to end HIV/AIDs by 2030.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, recognized Airtel’s positive contribution toward Masaza Cup which has grown to be a sought-after activity on Uganda’s sports calendar and an initiative that positively impacts people in the communities where it operates.
“The support extended by partners like Airtel Uganda is very instrumental in the implementation
of the activities we set out to do and we thank them for their continued support. We continue to
rally our people, not only in Buganda but throughout the entire country, to support Airtel by using
their network to communicate with loved ones and business partners," Mayiga noted.
