The Airtel Bika 2025 Tournament kicked off in dramatic style today, as Akasimba delivered a draw with Engabi Enyunga in an electrifying opening football match. Meanwhile, the netball courts also witnessed an equally thrilling encounter in the 2025 Netball Finals, where Nyonyi Nyange secured a 32-point win against Mmamba, who registered 27 points
The annual Airtel-BIKA tournament is a grassroots sports initiative aimed at bringing clans together for cultural and socio-economic purposes and has been a symbol of fostering a spirit of unity and community in the kingdom and the country as a whole. The clans will play and go through eliminations up to round 16, where they’ll be clustered into 4 groups that will then qualify for the quarter-finals, where 8 teams will make it to the semi-finals before the final game.
This year’s BIKA Tournament will bring together 40 clans that make up the Buganda totems. Some of the clans participating include the reigning champions Ngabi Nsamba clan, Mpindi clan, Nakinsige, Olulyo Olulangira, Kkobe, among others.
Commenting on the first game of the 2025 Airtel Bika tournament, Mr. Ali Balunywa, the Sales Director at Airtel Uganda, remarked, “Airtel is pleased to once again be part of this year’s Bika Tournament, which not only offers entertainment but also serves as a vital part of Buganda’s cultural heritage. This partnership aligns with our commitment to supporting initiatives that bring communities together. We believe in the power of sports to inspire and unite, and we are proud to contribute to this incredible event.”
Balunywa added, “The Airtel Bika Tournament is more than just football, it’s a platform for young talent to shine. Many of these players go on to build professional careers, joining top clubs and even representing Uganda at the national level with the Uganda Cranes. That’s the impact we’re proud to support.”
The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who officiated the first game, commended the continued collaboration with Airtel Uganda and emphasised the role of sports in cultural preservation.
“The Bika Tournament is an embodiment of Buganda’s values of unity, identity, and discipline. It is through such platforms that we pass on heritage and build stronger communities, and we are proud to have partners like Airtel Uganda for walking this journey with us and for investing in our people,” he said
Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga further urged Kabaka’s subjects and football lovers to come out in large numbers and rally behind their teams and totems, saying, “I congratulate all the winners today, and I encourage everyone to attend the games in large numbers to the finals, where the BIKA champions will be crowned.”
The tournament will continue to captivate audiences with thrilling matches on 7th May 2025 at Kibuli SS, including a clash between Nakinsige and Olulyo Olulangira, among others.
