Mayiga calls for fair play as 2026 Masaza Cup kicks off

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has urged all stakeholders in the Airtel Buganda Masaza Cup to uphold fairness and raise the standards of the tournament, stressing that matches and titles should be decided on the pitch rather than through administrative decisions.

Speaking during the launch of the 2026 Airtel Buganda Masaza Cup at Bulange, Mengo on Wednesday, Mayiga emphasized the importance of respecting the tournament rules and ensuring integrity throughout the competition.

“Let us raise the standards of the 2026 tournament. We do not want any unfair practices. The rules have already been provided and football should be won on the field of play,” he said.

“We do not want situations where teams win in meetings after the game. We want to see the team that deserves victory lifting the trophy because they won it on the pitch,” he added.

Mayiga noted that the Masaza Cup has evolved into one of Buganda Kingdom’s key platforms for promoting unity among the Kabaka’s subjects, identifying and nurturing football talent, creating economic opportunities and supporting social causes.

This year’s tournament will be played under the theme: “Men Must Take the Lead in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child.” Mayiga said the competition continues to play an important role in raising awareness about social issues and called on participants to embrace its wider developmental goals.

The 2026 tournament kicks off on June 13, with defending champions Buweekula opening their title defence against Kyaddondo at the National Teachers College playground in Mubende District.

Buganda Kingdom Minister for Youth, Sports and Arts Robert Sserwanga said several reforms have been introduced to modernise the competition, including adjustments to regulations and operational procedures, as well as training programmes aimed at improving professionalism among organisers.

Organising Committee Chairman Hajj Sulaiman Ssejengo said extensive training has also been conducted for security personnel, journalists, medical teams, team managers and other stakeholders to ensure smooth management of the tournament.

All 18 counties have been divided into three groups. The Bulange Group comprises Buweekula, Buvuma, Buddu, Kyaddondo, Busuju and Buluuli. The Muganzirwazza Group includes Ssingo, Mawogola, Butambala, Kabula, Kooki and Bugerere, while the Masengere Group consists of Kyaggwe, Busiro, Bulemeezi, Gomba, Ssese and Mawokota. :::