The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Talent Development in the Buganda Kingdom has launched its 2025 agenda, outlining strategies for advancing sports, nurturing talent, and empowering the youth within the Kingdom.
Speaking at Bulange, Mengo, Minister Robert Serwanga Ssalongo emphasized Buganda’s commitment to fostering youth development while promoting sports and talent. He urged all Baganda to actively participate in and support the outlined initiatives.
Minister Serwanga stated:
“As a Ministry, we are prepared to fulfill our mandate as entrusted to us by His Majesty the Kabaka. We aim to strengthen all institutions under our care. In 2025, we will build on the successes of 2024, serving the people of Buganda with renewed dedication.”
Annet Nakamya (left) with Owek. Robert Sserwanga, holding the 2025 activity calendar
Key Initiatives Announced
The official launch, held on Monday at Bulange, Mengo, highlighted the following key aspects:
- Inclusion of New Sports: Traditional wrestling (Enkuyo) and badminton have been added to the sports roster for 2025.
- Early Announcement: Minister Serwanga explained that releasing the agenda early allows participants ample time to prepare effectively.
Details of the 2025 Calendar
Gombolola Football Competitions:
- Start Date: January 2025
- End Date: March 30, 2025
- Participation: 175 Gombololas expected to compete.
Kabaka’s Birthday Run:
- Date: April 16, 2025
Buganda Clan Competitions:
- Start Date: April 12, 2025
- End Date: May 29, 2025
Masaza Cup Competitions:
- Start Date: July 5, 2025
- Followed by other sports activities.
Owek. Robert Sserwanga (centre) unveils the 2025 Sports and Talent Development Plan
Nnamwama Augustine Kizito Mutumba, Chairperson of the Council of Elders, urged clan leaders to prepare their members well to align with the Kingdom’s agenda.
Justus Mugisha, Chairperson of Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association, thanked Buganda for championing youth engagement and sports development.
Annet Nakamya, Head of the Uganda Badminton Association, expressed joy over the inclusion of badminton, pledging to popularize the sport across Buganda.
Hajji Sulaiman Ssejjengo, Chairperson of the Masaza Cup Organizing Committee, affirmed his commitment to ensuring smooth execution of the outlined activities.
Baker Ssejjengo, Head of Youth Affairs in Buganda, called upon all youth to embrace the initiatives wholeheartedly and engage actively in both sports and leadership at all levels within the Kingdom.