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David GOMBE
The annual Airtel Bika Tournament remains a flagship grassroots sports initiative that unites clans across Buganda, promoting cultural heritage, social cohesion, and community development officially kicked off on Saturday at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku .
This year, over 52 clans are participating across football and netball, with 40 clans competing in the football category. Teams will battle through the group stage with the top teams in each group joining the seeded sides who are already in the next following their success last year.
The competition builds on last year’s dramatic finale, where Ngabi Nsamba clan edged Ndiga clan in a tense penalty shootout to successfully defend the Bika Bya Baganda Football Shield, cementing their status as reigning champions.
On the netball courts, action also kicked off in a vibrant gala format, with multiple opening-round fixtures delivering exciting performances. Nnyonnyi Nnyange secured a 34–30 victory over Olulyo Olulangira, while Nte dominated Njovu with a commanding 40–00 win. Ngeye edged Ngabi Nsamba 26–23 in a closely contested match, as Kkobe narrowly defeated Omutima Omusagi 35–32. Mpindi also impressed with a strong 40–00 triumph over Njaza, highlighting the competitive spirit across the opening games.
Speaking at the opening match, Airtel Uganda’s Sales Director, Ali Balunywa, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives, “We are once again proud to be part of this tournament that brings together the heart of the Buganda Kingdom its clans. Competitions like the Airtel Bika Cup promote unity and togetherness, values we strongly believe in at Airtel. We are committed to building communities through shared experiences like this.”
Balunywa added, “As we’ve seen in previous years, the Airtel Bika Tournament is more than just football. It is a platform for young talent to showcase their abilities, with many players going on to join top clubs and even represent Uganda at the national level.”
The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who officiated the opening match, commended the continued partnership with Airtel Uganda and highlighted the cultural significance of the tournament, “We are grateful for partners like Airtel Uganda who consistently support our vision. The Bika Tournament is an embodiment of Buganda’s values of unity, identity, and discipline. Through such platforms, we preserve our heritage and strengthen our communities.”
Owek. Mayiga called upon the public to actively participate, “I congratulate today’s winners and encourage all Kabaka’s subjects and football lovers to attend the matches in large numbers as we journey towards the finals, where the 2026 Bika champions will ultimately be crowned.”
Mmamba Namakaka edged Ngeye 1-0 in the official opener thanks to a Peter Kaye sole strike while Musu beat Nte 3-1 in the other game on the opening day.
