The fourth edition of the MTN Kabode Tooro Kingdom Amasaza Tournament kicked off in emphatic fashion Sunday at Humura Playground, with Kyaka County making a statement in both football and netball.
In front of a lively crowd, Kyaka’s football team secured a 2-0 victory over Kibaale County, while their netball squad steamrolled through the competition, booking an early spot in the semifinals. The tournament, sponsored by MTN Uganda, continues to serve as a unifying force for the kingdom, blending sports, culture, and health awareness under this year’s theme: “Get Tested & Know Your HIV Status: Leaving No One Behind.”
Football: Kyaka Overcomes Red Card to Secure Opening Win
Kyaka County wasted no time asserting their dominance in Group A, with midfielder Jonathan Kissaku delivering a man-of-the-match performance, netting both goals in the 2-0 win.
His first strike came in the first half, capitalizing on Kibaale’s shaky defense. Then, in the 76th minute, he coolly converted a penalty to seal the victory—despite Kyaka playing the final half-hour with 10 men after Fred Tumusiime was shown a second yellow for simulation.
Kibaale tried to exploit their numerical advantage, but Kyaka’s goalkeeper Francis stood tall, making several key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Kyaka coach Innocent Barigye praised his team’s resilience:
“The boys played with heart and stuck to our plan even when we were down to ten men. This is the kind of character we need to go far in the tournament.”
Kibaale, led by Michael Niwembabzi, will look to bounce back when they host Fort Portal County on June 29 at Kyabenda Playground. Kyaka, meanwhile, faces Fort Portal next on July 20 at St. Leo’s College Kyegobe.
Netball: Kyaka Women Run Riot, Advance to Semifinals
The introduction of women’s netball in this year’s tournament proved to be a masterstroke, with Kyaka’s team delivering a dominant opening-day performance.
They annihilated Kibaale 83-8, then edged Fort Portal 46-45 in a thrilling contest. Fort Portal had earlier crushed Kibaale 93-13, but Kyaka’s consistency secured their semifinal berth.
Aisha Namuyomba, Kyaka’s top scorer, was named Most Valuable Player, walking away with a brand-new MTN Kabode smartphone and 10 chickens from the Kyaka MTN Eco Farm—a unique reward highlighting the tournament’s community-driven spirit.
Tooro Kingdom Premier Owek. Calvin Armstrong emphasized that the tournament is about more than just sports:
“This is not only about winning or losing, but bringing together subjects from various counties to foster unity and togetherness.”
MTN Uganda’s sponsorship has elevated the competition, with increased prize money:
- Football champions: UGX 12 million (up from UGX 7.5 million)
- Netball champions: UGX 5 million
Upcoming Fixtures: Defending Champs Enter the Fray
The action continues next Sunday (June 15) with Group B football, as defending champions Burahya County begin their title defense against Ntoroko County at Kyembogo Playground.
In netball, 2023 champions Mwenge South debut on June 22 against Bunyangabu County at Katoosa Playground.
Kyaka County’s explosive start sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament. With football drama, netball fireworks, and a kingdom united, the MTN Kabode Masaza Tournament is off to a roaring start.
Stay tuned—the battle for Tooro’s bragging rights has only just begun – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT1X9bTTH6A&t=18s
