The Abasaigi clan, hailing from Kibaale District, emerged as the champions of the 2023 Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom (BKK) Enganda football tournament. Their journey to victory concluded with a tense 5-4 penalty shootout, edging out the Abahango clan from Hoima District, following a one-all draw in the spirited 90-minute match held at the Booma Grounds in Hoima City.
The Match and Key Moments
The Abahango clan clawed back to level the score in the second half when Moses Ajuna capitalized on an error by the opposing goalkeeper, Chrispas Byaruhanga. Earlier, the Abasaigi clan had taken the lead through their striker Munihizi Zidolo, whose powerful header found the back of the net.
In the penalty shootout that ensued, Abasaigi’s goalkeeper, Byaruhanga, rose as the hero by making a crucial save, securing his team’s grasp on the trophy.
Team’s Perspective
Abasaigi clan’s head coach, Shida Julius, expressed his joy at his team’s triumph, calling for greater efforts in the future to defend their hard-earned title. He declared, “I want to encourage them that next year they should put in even more effort to ensure we defend this trophy.”
The Journey to the Finals
Prior to the finals, Abasaigi’s path to victory was sealed by defeating Abakibiro clan 5-4 in a penalty shootout during the penultimate round held on the same day at Booma Grounds. Meanwhile, the Abahango clan earned their spot in the finals by overcoming Abachwamba Clan with a 1-0 victory in the other semifinal match.
Recognition and Rewards
As a reward for their victory, Abasaigi clan received a cash prize of Shs2 million and a trophy from the tournament’s main sponsor, MTN Uganda. This award reaffirms MTN Uganda’s dedication to promoting sports and culture in the region. The runners-up, Abahango clan, were granted Shs1 million, while the Abachwamba clan, representing Kagadi District, secured the third position and a prize of Shs500,000. Abakibiro clan settled for a distant fourth place, receiving a guaranteed Shs250,000.
Promoting Unity and Talent
Officials from the monarchy, led by Bunyoro Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutanga, highlighted that the Enganda tournament not only fosters unity among the area counties but also brings together different clans to showcase their talents, contributing to the promotion of national sports.
Bicycle Race Champions
In addition to the football tournament, the excitement extended to the bicycle race finals held at Booma Playground on the same day. Participants from all 15 counties of the kingdom competed.
In the men’s category, Ali Mugaya from Masindi District claimed the championship, earning a cash prize of Shs2 million. In the women’s category, Jenifer Kusemerewa secured victory and also received Shs2 million, marking her second consecutive win in the Bicycle race for the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom.
Rewards for Cyclists
The other participants who secured the top six positions in both the women’s and men’s categories received cash prizes. The second-place finisher was awarded Shs1.5 million, the third-place finisher received Shs1 million, the fourth-place finisher was granted Shs750,000, the fifth-place finisher took home Shs500,000, and the sixth-place finisher received Shs250,000.
MTN Uganda’s Commitment
Abel Mwesigye, the Western Region Business Manager for MTN Uganda, reiterated the telecom giant’s commitment to supporting the cultural institution’s activities and promoting sports.
