♦Clare
The King of Tooro, His Majesty Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, has called on young people to take charge of their lives and avoid activities that could put them at risk.
He was speaking over the weekend as chief guest at the final of the 2026 Tooro Kingdom MTN Masaza Cup, held at Kichwamba Technical Institute grounds in Kabarole District. It was his first time attending the finals since his coronation, and his arrival drew excitement from the large crowd.
The Omukama said the youth must take responsibility for their future. He also cautioned young girls against getting into sexual relationships and becoming pregnant at an early age.
He urged parents to guide, educate and discipline their children, and to instil in them good behaviour and the cultural values of Tooro Kingdom.
His message echoed this year’s tournament theme of stopping the spread of HIV.
MTN backs the fight against HIV
The tournament, sponsored by MTN Uganda, was played under the theme of creating awareness stopping the spread of HIV across the Kingdom , part of the late Omukama Oyo’s strategic plan vision 2040 for the kingdom, which puts the health and wellbeing of the people of Tooro, especially young people, at the centre of its work.
The Omukama thanked MTN for its continued sponsorship, which has made the Masaza Cup a cornerstone of unity and youth development in the kingdom. He also appealed to sponsors to increase their support for sporting activities under the county competitions, beyond football and netball, and thanked the people of Tooro for their turnout and passionate support.
Burahya win on penalties
On the pitch, the final between Burahya and Mwenge South was full of drama. The first half ended goalless. Burahya broke the deadlock shortly after the restart, capitalising on a rare defensive lapse. Mwenge South pushed hard and eventually equalised, and the match ended 1-1 after normal time.
In the penalty shootout, Burahya stayed composed and scored three times, while Mwenge South failed to convert any, giving Burahya a 3-0 win. It was Burahya’s fifth title and their second in a row. As champions, they take home UGX 15 million from MTN Uganda.
Netball and third place
In the netball final earlier in the day, Mwenge South County edged Kitagwenda County 36-35. In the third-place playoff, Fort Portal City beat Kitagwenda
Currently the football standings are as following Burahya Isaza the champions who walkedaway with (UGX 15 million) followed by Mwenge South, Fort Portal City and Kitagwenda.