Michael Opira Centenary Bank Executive Director Operations speaking at the launch
Centenary Bank has committed Shs200 million towards the 2026 Masaza Cup tournament, reaffirming its long-standing support for youth development, sports promotion, and community empowerment within the Buganda Kingdom.
The sponsorship was announced during the official launch of the 22nd edition of the Masaza Cup at Bulange, Mengo. The annual tournament has evolved into one of Uganda’s most celebrated sporting and cultural events, bringing together communities across Buganda through football, talent development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Speaking at the launch, Centenary Bank Executive Director Operations, Michael Opira, said the bank’s continued investment in the tournament demonstrates its commitment to creating opportunities for young people and supporting initiatives that positively impact communities.
“The Masaza Cup has become a powerful platform for identifying and nurturing talent while transforming the lives of young people through sports. Beyond football, this year’s tournament carries an important message of supporting efforts to end HIV/AIDS by 2030,” Opira said.
According to the Uganda National Institute of Public Health, HIV prevalence among young people aged between 15 and 24 years stands at 9.1 percent. Organisers believe the tournament provides an effective avenue to reach thousands of young people with HIV prevention and awareness messages.
For more than a decade, Centenary Bank has partnered with the Buganda Kingdom through various initiatives, including the Masaza Cup, the Kabaka Birthday Run, the CBS Kalisoliso Dinner, and engagements with the Buganda Land Board.
“As an indigenous bank, we are honoured to be associated with the Kingdom of Buganda. Our support for the Masaza Cup now spans over 12 years, reflecting a strong partnership built on shared values of community development, sustainability, and cultural preservation,” Opira added.
The bank noted that its support for the tournament forms part of a broader corporate social investment strategy focused on education, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, financial inclusion, and community development. Centenary Bank annually allocates 1.5 percent of its previous year’s profits to initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening communities across the country.
Over the years, the Masaza Cup has become a key platform for scouting football talent while promoting unity among Buganda’s counties. The competition attracts thousands of spectators and provides aspiring players with an opportunity to showcase their skills on a highly competitive stage.
The 2026 edition is expected to draw significant participation from counties across the Kingdom and thousands of football enthusiasts, further cementing its position as one of Uganda’s premier sporting competitions.
The tournament will officially kick off on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Mubende National Teachers College grounds, where defending champions Buweekula County will face Kyaddondo County in the opening fixture.
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