Centenary Bank the largest commercial microfinance bank in Uganda has today announced its commitment towards the Masaza Cup tournament with a sponsorship package of UGX 600 million shillings for the next three years. This sponsorship will be broken down to an annual contribution of UGX 200 million shillings.
As a bank that has continuously invested in the growth, transformation and progress of the country, Centenary Bank has a rich history of supporting various initiatives and projects across Uganda. Over the years, the Bank has invested significant resources in promoting education, entrepreneurship, and community development. Their association with the Masaza Cup is an extension of this commitment, as they recognize the pivotal role that sports play in shaping the lives of young individuals.
Speaking at the launch, Balikuddembe Joseph, Executive Director Centenary Bank stated, “This tournament serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes, showcasing their talent while fostering a spirit of friendship, togetherness and healthy competition. Through this partnership, we have witnessed the transformation of young talent into shining stars who have gone on to play nationally and internationally. We therefore commit to continue this journey of empowerment with the Buganda Kingdom.”
Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga the Katikiro of Buganda in his remarks said that the tournament is an avenue to unite people in Buganda asserting, “The Masaza Cup is more than just a football tournament; it is a celebration of our traditions, a platform for community engagement, and a vehicle for talent development.” He further commented thanking the bank for journeying with them thus far, “we are grateful to Centenary Bank for their unwavering support in organizing this event and for their commitment to uplifting the youth in our region.”
Balikuddembe further echoed his thoughts remarking on the journey they have embarked upon with the Buganda Kingdom asserting, “Centenary Bank has had a longstanding relationship with the Buganda Kingdom, participating and partnering in different projects that are aimed at improving the lives of the people in the communities. Allow me to take a moment to reflect on the journey that our bank has had with the Buganda Kingdom. Over the last two decades, we have been part of activities such as the Masaza Tournament, “Kyapa Mungalo”, where we support to finance customers to get land titles, the Annual Buganda Expo, “Buganda Bumu” for the Diaspora community, School Co-curricular activities, Women initiatives, rehabilitation of the Royal Tombs (Amasiro), E’kisakaate, the Buganda Tourism Expo, PEWOSA among others.”
Balikuddembe went ahead to appreciate the customers who have been part of the bank’s journey to growth, “This year, we mark an important milestone as a bank, Centenary brand celebrates forty years of impacting and transforming lives across the country. We are reminded of the countless achievements and milestones that have shaped our institution. Since its inception in 1983, Centenary Bank has grown and is now serving 2.5 M customers, 80 branches, 205 ATMs, over 6,000 Agents, with an asset base of 5.5 trillion I would like to end by thanking all Centenary Bank customers and all the people in Uganda for your loyalty and continued support for the last 40 years.”
Centenary Bank extends best wishes to the 18 counties participating in the 2023 Masaza Cup. This tournament is a platform for them to showcase their skills, forge lifelong friendships, and inspire future generations.
Going forward, Centenary Bank remains committed to doing more, investing in the future of Ugandan sports, and creating opportunities for young talent to thrive. We are excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact we can collectively make in uplifting our communities.
