The Countdown Ends Friday: Bazzukulu Sports Gala Poised To Shake Lugogo

By Gad Masereka

Kampala: The buzz is palpable as Ugandans from all corners of Kampala eagerly count down to the inaugural Bazzukulu Sports Gala this Friday, December 13th, at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo will host a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and youthful talent.

Driven by the desire to spotlight untapped sporting potential and foster healthy lifestyles among the youth, the Bazzukulu Gala is the brainchild of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), steered by Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye. Renowned for her relentless youth empowerment initiatives, Hajjat Hadijah—affectionately known as Chief Muzzukulu—is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the event’s success.

Dismissing rumors spread by detractors aiming to undermine the Gala, Hajjat Hadijah took to her X account to confirm the highly anticipated event. “All is set for the #BazzukuluSportsGala slated for Friday, 13th December. Mark the date. Come show your talent,” she posted. “This gala will draw the curtains on 2024. Miss only if you must.”

“All is set for the #BazzukuluSportsGala slated for Friday 13th December. Mark the date. Come show your talent,” the Chief Muzzukulu posted. “This gala will draw the curtains on 2024. Miss only if you must.”

What to expect?

The National Coordinator for Games & Sports At ONC, Mr Seth Murari told DailyExpress in an exclusive interview on Wednesday that the Bazzukulu gala is expected to draw over 50 teams playing in a 7-aside format with an ultimate final between the two last two teams competing for the bigger prize of the day.

“This is an opportunity for the youths to come and show us what sporting talent they have got. Those wondering how 50+ teams will compete in one day, just come at Lugogo and be a witness of ONC’s organized strategy,” Mr Seth said, rallying the soccer lovers, especially the youth, to make their way to the stadium in a show of support for their teams.

The Gala, this publication understands, is expected to draw ex-Uganda Cranes internationals, headlined by former captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, Tonny Mawejje, and Simone Masaba, among others.

There will also be lots of fun and entertainment, headlined by electric performances from Uganda’s No.1 musician, the legendary Dr Jose Chameleone at the gala, which is purely an open invite and free for all Bazzukulu ba President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The sporting event is proudly sponsored by NBS Sport, Salaam Bank, Pepsi, Uganda Breweries Ltd, Ntale Herbal Jelly, Ntungasaze Energy Drink, among others.