The 2026 edition of the Busoga Kingdom Masaza football tournament was formally unveiled by MTN Uganda and the Kingdom's leadership. This marks the ninth consecutive year of the partnership.

Scheduled to commence on 15 August 2026 at the Namutumba District Headquarters in Busiki Chiefdom, the competition will see fourteen sides representing the various chiefdoms of Busoga competing for the prestigious regional crown in one of Uganda's most cherished cultural sporting events.

With a financial injection of UGX 550 million for this year's event, MTN Uganda has underscored its dedication to fostering youth advancement, strengthening communal bonds, and supporting football at the entry level.

The tournament’s central theme for 2026 is “Abasadha N'empango mukukomya Ekifuna Mabuunda mu Baana Abato,” translating to the pivotal role of men in preventing adolescent pregnancy. Beyond the pitch, the initiative will utilize fan interactions and community outreach to advocate for greater male involvement in the protection and empowerment of young women across the region.

During the official launch, Ahmed Osman Noor, the Second Deputy Prime Minister of Busoga Kingdom, highlighted the tournament's role as a vital vehicle for solidarity.

He urged all participants to prioritize fairness throughout the event. "Our collective strength lies in unity, and football serves as a powerful connector. We insist on victories achieved through fair play, as the true purpose of this cup is to unearth raw talent while instilling values of self-control," stated Noor.

He extended his gratitude to all contributors, notably acknowledging MTN for its steadfast support in ensuring the tournament's enduring success.

Representing MTN Uganda at the event were John Paul Okwi, the Manager for Sponsorships and Events, and Moses Oburu, the Regional Business Manager.

Okwi commented, "This tournament is a testament to how sport can bridge communities, cultivate ability, and drive meaningful societal shifts. Aligned with our mission to encourage Ugandans to 'Free Your Fire,' we are convinced that each participant, supporter, and locality possesses the capacity to achieve excellence both on the field and in their daily lives. In partnership, our potential is limitless."

The Updated MTN Stakeholder Incentives for the 2026 Season are:

• Outstanding Performer Recognition: For every fixture, each team will put forward one exceptional player. The top pick gets UGX 200,000, while the alternate nominee will take home UGX 100,000.

• Supporter Giveaways: Fans making purchases of UGX 5,000 or more on airtime, data packages, or via MTN merchant payment systems at game venues—or those buying selected MTN devices during the tournament period—will be entered into a draw to win UGX 50,000 per matchday.

• Half-Time Challenge: The “Abasadha N'Empango” segment will test participants' awareness regarding the fight against teenage pregnancy, with a UGX 50,000 reward for the victor.

• Vendor Recognition: The five merchants processing the most transactions per matchday will each be awarded UGX 75,000.

• Digital Engagement Prize: Fans utilising the #MTNBusogaMasaza tag will compete for the top 5 most compelling posts within 24 hours of each game, earning UGX 100,000 each.

• Media Excellence Award: Outstanding journalistic coverage throughout the event will be acknowledged with a special prize from MTN.

• Ceremonial Bull Roast: The ultimate champions will be honoured with a traditional bull roasting ceremony following the Grand Finale.

Prize Purse Breakdown:

• Champions: UGX 13 Million

• Runners-up (1st Place): UGX 9 Million

• Third Place: UGX 6 Million

• Fourth Place: UGX 4 Million

The Opening Day Clash:
The action begins at 3 PM on Saturday, 15 August 2026 at the Namutumba District Headquarters, featuring a rematch of the 2023 finalists, as Busiki takes on Bugweri.

Both MTN Uganda and the Busoga Kingdom are extending an open invitation to football enthusiasts throughout the area to turn out in force, cheer on their local heroes, honour the vibrant traditions of Busoga, and champion the tournament’s core values of collaboration, honesty, and constructive communal progress.