The Airtel Bika Cup 2026 officially got underway at Wankulukulu, with Musu clan delivering a dominant 3–1 victory over Nte in an entertaining opening football fixture.
Musu signaled their intent early, with Nsimbe Martin breaking the deadlock in the 8th minute through a well-taken curling strike into the top right corner. The early goal set the tone for a commanding performance, and just nine minutes later, Nsibe Badru Gabriel doubled the advantage with a powerful header from a corner.
Maintaining control for most of the contest, Musu extended their lead in the 67th minute to effectively seal the result. Nte managed a late consolation, but it did little to alter the outcome as Musu comfortably secured all three points.
In an earlier match, Mmamba clan edged past Ngeye, with Peter Kaye scoring the decisive goal in a tightly contested encounter.
The Airtel Bika Tournament continues to stand out as a key grassroots sporting platform in Buganda, bringing together clans while promoting cultural heritage, unity, and community development. This year’s edition has attracted over 52 clans across football and netball, including 40 teams competing in the football category.
The competition format will see teams progress through knockout stages to the Round of 16, before being reorganized into four groups. The top teams will advance to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately the final.
The tournament builds on the momentum of last year’s dramatic finale, where Ngabi Nsamba clan retained the Bika Bya Baganda Football Shield after edging Ndiga clan in a penalty shootout.
Netball action also commenced in a lively gala format, producing several competitive encounters. Nnyonnyi Nnyange overcame Olulyo Olulangira 34–30, while Nte registered a dominant 40–00 win against Njovu. Ngeye secured a narrow 26–23 victory over Ngabi Nsamba, Kkobe edged Omutima Omusagi 35–32, and Mpindi impressed with a 40–00 win over Njaza.
Speaking at the opening, Airtel Uganda Sales Director Ali Balunywa reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community initiatives, noting that the tournament plays a vital role in fostering unity and providing a platform for emerging talent.
Buganda Kingdom Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, who officiated the opening match, praised the partnership with Airtel Uganda and emphasized the cultural importance of the tournament. He also called on the public to turn up in large numbers to support their respective clans as the competition progresses.
