[wordads]
Shafiq Miiro
The 2026 Buganda Clan Games (Emizannyo gy’Ebika) have been officially launched at Bulange, Mmengo, with a strong call for inclusivity, unity, and active participation from all clans.
While officiating at the launch, Owek. Robert Serwanga outlined the full roadmap for this year’s competitions and urged clan leaders to mobilize their members to participate in large numbers, both as players and supporters.
The Minister announced a major policy shift aimed at increasing participation: there will be no registration fees for any clan taking part in this year’s games.
“Several reforms have been introduced to improve the standards of the Clan Games. There will be no registration fees this year, we do not want any clan left out due to lack of funds or limited time,” he emphasized.
He explained that feedback from previous editions showed that many clans failed to participate due to registration costs and tight deadlines. This year, while registration remains mandatory, clans are urged to submit their entries within the stipulated time to enable smooth planning.
Opening Ceremony and Activities
The official opening will take place on 2nd June at Wankulukuku Stadium, featuring a full day of activities designed to promote unity, interaction, and entertainment among the people of Buganda.
Each clan will be allowed to invite its members to attend free of charge, while non-invitees will pay an entry fee at the gate.
Two football matches will headline the opening day:
3:00 PM: Mmamba Namakaka vs Ngeye
7:00 PM: Omusu vs Nte
Gates will open early in the morning, with clans engaging in a curtain-raising “Netball Gala” competition that will run for two days, continuing the following day (3rd June) to determine finalists.
Cultural and Traditional Highlights
Spectators will be treated to a variety of traditional games including ekigwo, omweso, and other activities. There will also be cultural parades where each clan will showcase its identity, with members carrying placards representing their clans.
The Minister encouraged clan leaders to ensure strong turnout:
“No clan should feel underrepresented on that day, mobilize your members to show up in numbers.”
Fair Play Emphasized:
Robert Serwanga cautioned team organizers against fielding ineligible players, stressing that victories must be earned on the pitch rather than through disputes and petitions.
Organizing Committee Secretary
Gerald Katamba, representing the Chairman of the organizing committee Sulaiman Magala, noted that supporters play a critical role in motivating teams and called on clans to rally behind their players.
He also urged team officials to submit player details on time to facilitate smooth organization of the tournament.
Participation and Competition Format
A total of 40 clans have registered for this year’s football competition. Eight clans have already been seeded directly into the Round of 16:
Ngabi Nsamba
Ndiga
Nsenene
Kkobe
Ngabi Nnyunga
Mamba Kakoboza
Omutima Omusagi
Ngo
The remaining 32 clans have been drawn into eight groups as follows:
Group A: Butiko, Musu, Nte, Ffumbe
Group B: Mbogo, Nkusu, Ngoonge, Nswaaswa
Group C: Njaza, Mamba Namakaka, Ngeye, Nvubu
Group D: Mpindi, Kinyomo, Mbwa, Njobe
Group E: Lugave, Njovu, Nvuma, Mpeewo
Group F: Kasimba, Nsuma, Nnyonnyi Nnyange, Ndiisa
Group G: Nkima, Mutima Muyanja, Nkerebwe, Kibe
Group H: Olulyo Olulangira, Ngaali, Nakinsinge, Ntalaganya
Top teams from these groups will join the seeded teams in the knockout stage.
Strong Attendance at Launch
The launch event attracted clan team leaders from various levels, members of the organizing committee, media representatives, and a large number of Buganda subjects, signaling strong anticipation for this year’s games.
The Buganda Clan Games remain a cornerstone event that blends sport, culture, and unity, strengthening identity and solidarity among the clans of Buganda.