KAMPALA, Uganda — Plascon, a paint manufacturer, has reaffirmed its sponsorship of the Masaza Cup, a football tournament for the Buganda Kingdom, which is set to begin Saturday. The 2025 edition of the tournament officially launched this week at Bulange Mengo.
The opening match on Saturday, June 21, will feature defending champions Buddu facing five-time winners Gomba at Kitovu Sports Arena in Masaka City at 3 p.m.
Daniel Kayongo, Plascon Brand Manager, said the company was proud to be a co-sponsor for the third consecutive year. “At Plascon, we believe in a Uganda where businesses can focus on what they do best — serving customers, creating jobs and innovating,” Kayongo said. He noted Plascon’s partnership aims to uplift communities, preserve heritage and create opportunities for the next generation, including past support for refurbishments and other initiatives within the Kingdom.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, prime minister of the Kingdom, thanked Plascon for its support. He said the tournament is a vital instrument for unity, empowering youth and celebrating shared heritage. “It shows what we can achieve when we work together. We urge all subjects of the Kingdom to come out, support their counties peacefully, and celebrate the rich culture that binds us together,” Mayiga said.
Eighteen teams are in final preparations for the tournament. Many have announced coaching staff changes and retentions.
Defending champions Buddu FC have recruited Eric Kisuze, who recently led Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Nkozi to a third Pepsi University Football League title. Buddu hopes Kisuze will help them retain the trophy. Record winners Gomba FC appointed Simon Ddungu, who guided Buddu to their 2024 triumph.
Mawokota, aiming for a third title, secured David Mutono Katono from Kyaggwe. Asaph Mwebaze, formerly with Mbale Heroes, has taken over at Mawogola, a side still seeking its first Masaza title.
Buweekula FC retained head coach Felix Ssekabuuza and technical director Ibrahim Kirya. Kyaddondo FC kept Meddie Nyanzi, who also coaches Bugema University. Other teams announcing new or retained coaches include Kabula FC (Michael Bukenya), Busiro FC (Paul Kiwanuka), Ssingo FC (Hamza Lutalo), Bugerere FC (Michael “Skills” Lukyamuzi), Bulemeezi FC (Calvin Paul Mugerwa), Buvuma FC (Juma Mibiro), Ssese FC (Edrisa Walusimbi), and Kooki FC (Rogers Lwebuga).
The Masaza Cup serves as a platform for discovering young football talents, with many progressing to the Uganda Premier League and the national team, the Uganda Cranes. It also fosters community unity and instills values like discipline and teamwork.
