By John Kusolo
Kansai Plascon, a prominent paints manufacturer, has announced its sponsorship of the 2023 Buganda Masaza Cup football tournament in Uganda. The company has offered a generous sum of Shs 100,000,000 to support the annual competition, along with an additional Shs 50,000,000 specifically dedicated to the Buddu Ssaza team. This sponsorship marks Kansai Plascon’s continued involvement in Uganda’s sports arena, as they have previously partnered with various sports clubs and associations, including Vipers Sports Club, Arua Hill Sports Club, the Uganda Cup football competition, Uganda Netball Cranes, Entebbe Mongers Rugby Football Club, and the Uganda Cricket Association.
The official launch of the 2023 Buganda Masaza Cup took place at Bulange Gardens square, with the presence of important figures such as the Buganda Kingdom prime minister, Katikiro Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga. During the launch, Kansai Plascon’s Marketing Manager, Daniel Kayongo, expressed the company’s gratitude for the opportunity to be associated with the Buganda Kingdom and emphasized the value of sports in uniting people and promoting Uganda internationally.
Daniel Kayongo, the brand manager of Kansai Plascon, emphasized the brand’s belief in the unifying power of sports, regardless of social status. Understanding their customers’ passion for sports, the company made the decision to invest and engage with them during these moments. Kayongo expressed the company’s longstanding positive relationship with Buganda Kingdom in various capacities, which ultimately led to the partnership unveiled on this occasion. He also highlighted that their support for Buddu Ssaza last year was the first step towards their involvement in the Buganda Masaza Cup. The celebration of this partnership is the culmination of several years of collaboration.
Kayongo highlighted that Kansai Plascon’s decision to invest in sports sponsorship is based on the understanding that sports hold a unique passion point that unites people regardless of their status. The company’s partnership with Buganda Kingdom has been growing over the years, with their previous support of the Buddu Ssaza team. Kansai Plascon joins other sponsors such as Airtel Uganda, Centenary Bank, and UNAIDS in supporting the Buganda Masaza Cup, which has been an important championship for talent development in both Buganda and Uganda as a whole.
The Buganda Masaza Cup is renowned for its contribution to national teams, with a significant number of players who have participated in the cup going on to represent Uganda in major tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the CECAFA Cup. The tournament also plays a role in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with a focus on men’s involvement in this important cause.
Sulaiman Ssejjengo, the chairperson of the Masaza Cup local organizing committee, expressed his excitement about the tournament’s return, noting that it will feature 18 teams divided into three groups. The increased number of matches will provide more action time for the players and greater visibility for sponsors and partners. Ssejjengo extended his gratitude to Buganda Kingdom, all sponsors and partners, the Masaza chiefs, players, fans, and the media for their support in promoting the tournament.
Owek. Henry Moses Ssekabembe Kiberu, Buganda Kingdom Minister of Sports, Leisure, and Recreation, commended the strategic partners involved in the championship and emphasized the importance of discipline for players, managers, officials, and fans. He urged the footballers to respect the game, maintain discipline, and lead disciplined lives both on and off the field. Owek. Ssekabembe announced that each of the 18 participating teams would receive 50 units of jerseys, 5 footballs, and Shs 10,000,000 as a starter fund for the tournament.
The tournament’s official opening match will feature defending champions Busiro against three-time winners Mawokota at the Mutesa II Wankulukuku Stadium in Kabowa on Saturday, 24th June 2023. Gomba Ssaza holds the record for the most titles won, with five championships, followed by Mawokota with three.
In summary, Kansai Plascon’s sponsorship of the Buganda Masaza Cup adds to their extensive involvement in Uganda’s sports scene. The tournament’s focus on talent development, unity, and the fight against HIV/AIDS aligns with the company’s values. With the support of Kansai Plascon and other sponsors, the Buganda Masaza Cup continues to grow in prominence and make a significant impact in Ugandan football.