Close

Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment Ltd, a community-based social enterprise located in Sironko District, Eastern Uganda, has historically encountered challenges in processing and drying wet coffee, slowing down transformation of people’s lives.

These challenges are now expected to be no more as the enterprise today receives a generous support of three pulping machines and dryers, valued at UGX 20 million, from the MTN Foundation, a corporate social responsibility arm of MTN Uganda.

This support is part of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, launched in July, aimed at empowering local individuals and organizations to enact meaningful change within their communities.

Deogracious Odwori, the head of operations at Tan Telecom Head, representing MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge, said the support aligns seamlessly with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy, aimed at propelling the nation’s progress through strategic partnerships and investments that foster community development, equity, and inclusiveness.

“Our support for Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment Ltd epitomizes our belief in the power of collaboration to achieve a modern, connected life for everyone,” he said.

“We therefore believe that our support will enable our local individuals and organizations to exceed their expectations and realize their dreams for the betterment of their communities.”

He highlighted the initiative as a testament to MTN Uganda’s mantra, “Together, We are Unstoppable,” underscoring the potential for collective efforts to drive significant change.

Sandra Nakayenze, CEO of Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment Ltd, expressed her gratitude towards MTN Uganda for the investment, noting its critical role in enhancing production processes and, consequently, the economic well-being of the community.

Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment Ltd, serving 1,246 small-scale farmers, including a significant 60% female demographic across the Mt. Elgon sub-region, has been at the forefront of advocating for economic empowerment to uplift local producer livelihoods and ensure sustainable development within their communities.

Florence Nambozo, the Woman Member of Parliament representing Sironko District thanked MTN Uganda for supporting the social enterprise with the hope to improve the community’s income via value addition.

She also appreciated the founders of Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment Ltd for uplifting women and the girl child.

This development comes at the time when the Ugandan government is intensifying its efforts on value addition aiming to elevate the commodity’s export earnings.

Uganda, a leading coffee producer, reported a remarkable $940.3 million in revenue from coffee exports in the 2022/2023 coffee year, marking a 7% increase from the previous year, driven by an uptick in export volumes and favorable global prices, according to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).

The MTN Foundation has earmarked UGX 500 million for 25 selected projects across the nation, spanning economic empowerment, education, health, water, sanitation and hygiene.

This initiative is part of a broader commitment to invest in the nation’s future, targeting youth, women, persons with disabilities, and rural communities across five regions of Uganda.

Over the last decade, the MTN Foundation has dedicated UGX 30 billion towards more than 250 projects in education, health,  youth empowerment, water, sanitation and hygiene, and humanitarian response significantly impacting communities nationwide and cementing its position as a catalyst for positive change and development in Uganda.  

MTN Uganda’s corporate social responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, has today facilitated the graduation of 156 youths from its prestigious Computer Applications User Occupation and vocational and business skills programs as it continues with its journey to enhance diversity, equity and inclusiveness in the communities.

123 youths, predominantly women, successfully earned the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) certificates in Computer Applications User Occupation, while another 33 earned the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations certificates in the vocational and business skills.

The second cohort of learners in the Computer Applications User Occupation program underwent an intensive one-month training, mastering key software tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Equally, participants in the vocational and business skills program completed a comprehensive two-year training period, equipping them with a robust set of skills for the modern workforce in the areas of mechanical engineering, computer application, electricity installation, welding, carpentry, tailoring and house painting.

The youth took their training at the Smart Girls Foundation in Kitetika located along Gayaza Road in Wakiso District.

Speaking at the event at the Smart Girls Foundation, MTN Uganda Talent Manager, Betty Kusemererwa, expressed her pleasure in witnessing the youth’s embrace the innovative initiatives to transform people’s lives.

She noted that this enthusiasm aligns perfectly well with MTN’s Ambition 2025 Strategy whose aim is to drive Uganda’s progress.

“We at MTN Uganda are committed to a belief that everyone is entitled to the advantages of a modern, connected life—a vision we have steadfastly upheld,”she said.

“Now armed with the essential skills you’ve now acquired, we encourage you to leverage the latest digital technologies to not only transform your own lives but also to make a significant impact within your communities.”

She called upon various stakeholders including other members in the  private sector to join hands with MTN Uganda  in this noble course.

“By enhancing accessibility, reducing the cost of digital tools, and committing to extensive digital skills training, we can break down the obstacles to adoption and pave the way for a more inclusive digital economy. This is the reason we at MTN Uganda hold a firm belief in the power of collaboration, aligning with our guiding principle that Together, We’re Unstoppable in the pursuit of achieving any goal we set out to accomplish.” Kusemererwa added.

According to World Bank data, a majority of the nation’s populace, exceeding 75%, falls below the age of 30. However, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistic’s National Labour Force Survey 2021, the youth unemployment rate remains a big challenge, registering at 17%, which surpasses the national average unemployment rate of 11.7%, as reported by the Ministry of Labour and National Development.

Interestingly, the disparity in unemployment rates is more pronounced among female youths, who contribute disproportionately to the overall youth unemployment figures.

Smart Girls Foundation CEO Jamila Mayanja told graduands to remain resilient and professional as they embark on their new journey.

Chief Guest of the event, Maria Kizito Nakkazi, the Inspector of Schools in Kasangati Town Council told graduands to be persistent, believe in themselves and keep learning to keep pace with the new job environment.

Several  graduands including Shalom Khayinza expressed deep appreciation to the Smart Girl’s Foundation and MTN Uganda for their pivotal role in her career development.

“The Smart Girl’s Foundation and MTN Uganda were instrumental in equipping me with the skills necessary for securing employment,” Khayinza said.

“After completing my senior six amidst the coronavirus pandemic, I saw no clear path forward to university education. This program opened new doors for me.”

Mary Nanyanzi said she gained valuable tech skills through MTN Girls with Tools free education.

“Despite dropping out of school many years ago, I have now been empowered to use computers. Let’s create more opportunities for girls to thrive in tech,” she said.

MTN Foundation’s partnership with Smart Girls Foundation began in 2019, during the 21 days of YelloCare, in which the former supported the latter with a donation worth Shs 30 million to enhance the girls’ learning experience.

Building on this commitment, in 2022, the MTN Foundation established a state-of-the-art skilling facility at the Smart Girls Foundation, designed to annually train up to 400 girls of all educational levels in various vocational programs. This facility is fully equipped with a modern computer laboratory, vehicle servicing bays, and a washing bay, among other amenities.

Beyond this, the MTN Foundation is actively involved in several other initiatives focused on youth empowerment. The MTN Skills Academy is one such initiative, dedicated to providing young people with vital digital skills.

In addition, the Foundation is spearheading the MTN Ace program, offering specialized training for the youth, and engages in the digitalization of vocational institutions across the country, all to enhance the employability and entrepreneurial capabilities of Uganda’s youth.

In a monumental stride towards enhancing digital inclusion and reducing inequalities, MTN Uganda, a leader in telecommunications and digital solutions, proudly announced the launch of its Priority Services for people with special needs. This initiative, aligned with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 (UNSDG 10), aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities or circumstances, can enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life.

The official unveiling of this groundbreaking service occurred on Saturday, October 21st, 2023, at the MTN Service Centre located within Lugogo Forest Mall. The event featured a demonstration of the Priority Services in action and was attended by representatives from the Uganda National Association of the Deaf (UNAD) and various stakeholders.

Dorcas Muhwezi, the General Manager of Customer Experience at MTN Uganda, expressed her enthusiasm about the launch of Priority Services, stating, “At MTN, we believe in leaving no one behind. Our commitment to making a positive impact is deeply rooted in our Ambition 2025 strategy, where we aim to lead the way in providing digital solutions for Uganda’s progress. By introducing Priority Services, we’re addressing the digital inclusion gap and actively working towards UNSDG 10, which calls for reducing inequalities.”

MTN Uganda’s Priority Services cater to a wide range of special needs, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all customers. Some of the key features include:      

MTN Uganda’s unwavering commitment to providing digital inclusion doesn’t stop with the launch of these services. We have an extensive rollout plan for implementing these services at touchpoints across the country, to ensure that individuals in different regions have access to these facilities.

The launch event also showcased MTN’s initiative to work closely with UNAD. “We’re excited to host customers from the Uganda National Association of the Deaf, and we’re looking forward to demonstrating how our Priority Service works in action. Collaboration with organizations like UNAD is essential to achieving our vision of an inclusive digital world,” Ms. Muhwezi added.

As MTN Uganda’s journey continues toward becoming the largest and most valuable business platform on the continent, we remain committed to providing industry-leading connectivity services to all our customers, while leaving no one behind.

MTN Uganda’s Priority Services for people with special needs signify a giant leap towards a more equitable, inclusive, and connected society, embodying our motto of “Together We Are Unstoppable.”

At a time when most of the world is facing a challenge with attracting and retaining women employees, MTN, Uganda’s largest corporate company has surpassed the 50-50 men to women ratio. Today, MTN’s workforce is made up of an impressive 51% female workforce.

With a target of hitting the 50% mark in 2025 as underpinned by the company’s Ambition 2025 strategy, the company deployed a deliberate approach that saw it close 2022 with 49% female employees and in less than a year, the company has surpassed its 2025 goal by 1%.

Besides staying on trend with its men to women work force ratio, MTN Uganda, which is considered one of the best employees in the country by the Federation of Uganda Employers, is keen on increasing women in management. Currently, MTN Uganda has 38% of women in Senior Executive Leadership positions and 36% of women in Leadership positions. Learn how MTN Uganda has turned around the odds of the men to women employment ratio from the video below.

MTN Uganda, in collaboration with YoTV, the premier super app for all your entertainment needs, is delighted to unveil an array of transformative updates that will revolutionize your entertainment experience, reinforcing YoTV’ s position as the ultimate destination for all your entertainment desires.

At YoTV, we understand the importance of choice and affordability in today’s dynamic world and together with MTN Uganda, has curated a world of entertainment at your fingertips. With over 80 TV and radio stations, exclusive movies, and specialized content, YoTV truly has it all:

Simply download the YoTV app and watch all Yo entertainment for as low as 800/- whenever and where you are.

Thanks to our partnership with YoTV, MTN Uganda customers can now enjoy these exciting changes, making YoTV the go-to super app that encompasses all your entertainment needs. Whether you’re seeking news, lifestyle content, kids’ entertainment, movies, or music, YoTV has it all, reaffirming its position as the ultimate destination for entertainment enthusiasts.

 Together we’re unstoppable.

MTN Uganda, a leading telecommunications and digital solutions provider, extends a warm invitation to women entrepreneurs across the nation to participate in the groundbreaking “MTN@25 Advancing Women Entrepreneurs” (AWE), an inspiring collaborative endeavor in partnership with MTN Mobile Money (MOMO), The American Tower Corporation (ATC), UN Women, The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), DFCU Bank, Innovation Village, NSSF Hi Innovators and Outbox. This initiative underscores MTN Uganda’s unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive and connected society, echoing our belief in the power of collaboration and the MTN annual theme of “Together, we are Unstoppable.”

The AWE project aspires to usher in a new era of improved business ownership, enriched diversity, and enhanced equality in the supply chain. It seeks to champion women’s participation and commendable contributions to the thriving tech industry.

At the launch, Sylvia Mulinge, MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer aptly stated, “As part of our commitment to this cause, we are determined to increase the local spend on women entrepreneurs participating in the top spend categories in the telecom industry and build an inclusive market-oriented platform that supports and attracts women entrepreneurs.”

On average, women-owned microenterprises in Uganda generate 30 percent lower profits than their male counterparts (World Bank 2019). Lower levels of innovation, lower use of capital and labor, and sector-based sex segregation are all factors associated with women entrepreneurs’ poorer business outcomes relative to men in Uganda. Moreover, women enterprise owners in Uganda also use 41 percent fewer hours of labor, have 50 percent less capital, and are 37 percent less likely to have introduced a new product over the previous 12 months compared with men.

Sylvia Mulinge, MTN CEO, also stated, “The AWE project aligns with our core values and strategic vision, which is to create opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender or background. The goal of the AWE project is ambitious yet achievable. Our vision is to have 250 women suppliers by 2025, with the aim of onboarding 50 women by the end of this year.  MTN Uganda will be investing $4 million (UGX 15,029,428,000) into this project because we recognize that women entrepreneurs possess immense potential, and by inviting them to join our supply chain, we intend to empower them, promote diversity, and fortify the technology sector in Uganda. This initiative serves as a testament to our commitment to a more inclusive and equitable future.”

The AWE project represents a cornerstone of MTN Uganda’s sustainability approach, marked by a resolute focus on gender equality, unwavering support for women in business, and the empowerment of the youth, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities.

MTN Uganda is proud to collaborate with a consortium of strategic partners to drive the Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) project. MTN and MTN Mobile Money (MOMO) will oversee the EOI process, ensure women’s participation in RFPs, and offer comprehensive training and financial support. The American Tower Corporation (ATC) will provide business opportunities and assist in candidate selection, while UN Women will raise awareness and strengthen partnerships. The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), DFCU Bank, and Innovation Village will promote entrepreneurship, provide mentorship, and offer financial support. NSSF Hi Innovators will offer brand support and financing. Together, we aim to increase women’s participation in the telecom supply chain, support financial sustenance, and create a more inclusive marketplace, with a goal of onboarding 50 women by the end of the year and 250 women suppliers by 2025.

Eligibility Criteria for MTN AWE Expression of Interest (EOI):

To participate in the AWE initiative, women entrepreneurs are encouraged to meet the following criteria:

  1. Ownership: Your business must exhibit at least 50% ownership by women, either wholly or through a majority shareholding.
  2. Business Type: We wholeheartedly encourage applications from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), youth entrepreneurs aged 23-35, associations owned by women, and businesses/associations owned by women with disabilities.
  3. Annual Revenue: The applying company should demonstrate an annual revenue of a minimum of UGX 60 million.
  4. Registration: Your company must be locally registered and have been in operation for at least one year.
  5. Tax Compliance: Applicants are required to possess a valid tax compliance certificate.
  6. Active Business Operations: Your applying company should boast actively managed and women-led operations.

MTN Uganda enthusiastically welcomes Expressions of Interest (EOI) from women entrepreneurs spanning the following categories:

  1. IT Equipment and Related Services: Companies offering IT hardware, software, and related solutions.
  2. Network Services: Businesses providing network infrastructure, maintenance, and support services.
  3. Digital Services: Companies involved in digital marketing, content creation, and other digital solutions.
  4. Facility Management Services: Enterprises offering facility management and maintenance services.
  5. Commercial Products and Services: Businesses supplying various commercial products and services.

Women entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to visit the following website: https://www.mtn.co.ug/awe/. Once there, please accept the terms and conditions and follow the provided instructions to apply for the program before 31st October 2023.

Adekemi Ndielli, UN Women Uganda’s Deputy Country Representative, said, “Empowering women is our DNA as UN Women Uganda, and our partnership with MTN Uganda is a magic bullet to bridge the gap and contributes to SDG 5, which has targets & indicators for all the other goals. Bringing UN Women into this MTN AWE program means you will have access to these women, as there is a level of trust between them & us.”

Charles M. Mudiwa, Managing Director, DFCU Bank Uganda, stated, “DFCU has embarked on a dedicated journey to support women entrepreneurs since 2007. Our guiding principle has been the recognition that many women exert tremendous effort, yet opportunities for them to secure financing were scarce. Over the years, this commitment has yielded exponential growth. Internally, we express our sincere gratitude to MTN and all our valued partners who have played an instrumental role in making this endeavor possible.”

Alex Rumanyika, Head of Strategy at NSSF, mentioned, “The Fund, through the Hi-Innovator Programme, has joined MTN Uganda for their Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) project aimed at empowering and supporting enterprising women in starting, growing, and sustaining their businesses. This initiative aligns with the Fund’s effort to support early-stage Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs) with patient capital, technical assistance, and linkages to markets and affordable financing to make them competitive and investment-ready through Hi-Innovator.”

Arthur Mukembo, Lead FutureLab Studio, said, “At Innovation Village, we foster an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs to adopt tech and tech-enabled solutions to enable them to solidify their business value proposition, validate an investable market, and move beyond early adopters to accelerate the growth of their enterprise. We seek ways to double down to leverage technology to create more opportunities for women businesses to benefit from the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.”

Stephen Asiimwe, Chief Executive Officer of Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), commended Sylvia and her team for their visionary initiative. He stated, “This is not just a simple beginning; it’s the inception of a movement, a catalyst for change that is gaining momentum with every passing moment. As we take these first steps, let us all remember that revolutions are built on the passion, resilience, and commitment of individuals who dare to dream and act. Together, we can turn the tides and create a brighter future for all.”

Dorothy Kabgambe Ssemanda, Chief Executive Officer of ATC Uganda, explained, “Currently, more than 90% of our annual high spend on engineering projects is executed by suppliers which are not women-owned or operated. This is a narrative we are here to change, a shift we are dedicated to leading. We have taken a solid step in this direction by ring-fencing a proportion of contracts exclusively for AWE candidates. We acknowledge the high working capital requirements, and we are here to navigate these waters together. To ensure the success and growth of AWE candidates, ATC will offer robust technical training and field assistance, covering a broad spectrum from onboarding to customized training tailored for unique challenges. Our support does not end post-award. We will continue to provide field-based assistance, monitor progress, and award additional work based on improvements and performance.”

—– END—–

About MTN Uganda

MTN Uganda is a leading telecoms company in Uganda with a primary objective of carrying on the business of a national operator of a telecommunications network pursuant to the National Telecommunications Operator (NTO) licence granted by the Uganda Telecommunications Commission (UCC). Among our offerings are network services, digital and financial technology services, interconnect and roaming, sale of mobile devices, and MTN Mobile Money (conducted through subsidiary MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited). MTN has a presence in all 134 districts of Uganda. Services are delivered through a network of over 164,000 MoMo agents, 268,0000 MoMo merchants, 200 service stores and 13 main distributors. For the period ended 31 March 2023, MTN Uganda had 17.8 million subscribers, 11 million MoMo users, and 6.7 million active data users. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug or follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnug for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our 240 million customers in 21 countries in Africa and the Middle East. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code “MTN.” We are pursuing our Ambition 2021 strategy, focusing on growth in data, fintech, and digital businesses.

For more information, please contact:

MTN Uganda Press Office: mediadesk.ug@mtn.com

Rhona Arinaitwe: Rhona.Arinaitwe@mtn.com or 0772 123 067

Prisca Baike: prisca.baike@tbwa-uganda.com  or 0782 654 083

On a day filled with camaraderie, skill, and innovation, MTN Uganda, in partnership with Chenosis, hosted a spectacular MTN Monthly Tee tournament at the historic Entebbe Club. Golf enthusiasts gathered for a day of competition, learning, and the infusion of technology into the world of golf.

Chenosis, represented by Managing Director Yolanda Mbalu, made a special journey all the way from South Africa to be part of this remarkable event. Chenosis, as a platform dedicated to bridging the gap between code and growth. Their mission to empower developers, enterprises, and individuals aligns perfectly with MTN’s vision of digital transformation.

Sylvia Mulinde, CEO of MTN Uganda, remarked, “We are thrilled to welcome the Chenosis team to Uganda. Their commitment to enabling progress through technology resonates with our theme ‘Together We are Unstoppable.’ This partnership with Chenosis demonstrates MTN Uganda’s ambition to lead in the digital transformation of businesses.”

MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinde poses for a photo with all the winners on the night

Yolanda Mbalu, Managing Director of Chenosis, shared her thoughts on their participation, saying, “Chenosis is passionate about connecting with people and businesses, and what better way to engage with the community than through sports? Golf, with its rich tradition, is the perfect platform for us to showcase how technology can enhance the experience. We are proud to be part of the MTN Monthly Tee and to bring something new to the table.”

Jacob Byamukama, the Chairman of the Entebbe Club, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all the sponsors, stating, “I want to extend my gratitude to MTN Uganda, Chenosis, and all the sponsors for their unwavering support. This event wouldn’t have been possible without you, and we are truly thankful.”

In addition to the thrilling golf competition, Chenosis added an exciting twist with a trivia game. Players had the opportunity to engage in the Chenosis trivia and win special prizes, including Range finders, Trolley bags, Under Armour gear, and Iron covers.

The winners of the September MTN Monthly Tee in partnership with Chenosis:

 No.CategoryWinner(s)
1Overall WinnerBogera Joseph (Handicap 12) – 69 nett (count back)
2Ladies WinnerSusan Knight (Handicap 30) – 70 nett
3Men Group A – WinnerOchieng Jude (Handicap 9) – 70 nett (count back)
4Men Group B – Winner Mwetemba Herbert (Handicap 16) – 69 nett
5Men Group C – WinnerBrian Cable (Handicap 25) – 71 nett
6Senior WinnerSean Kinsella (Handicap 14) – 72 nett
7Guest WinnerMusa Baguma (Handicap 24) – 62 nett
8Ladies Runner-up Edith Wamalwa (Handicap 35) – 71 nett
9Men Group A – Runner-upAgamile Samson (Handicap 9) – 70 nett (count back)
10Men Group B – Runner-up Moses Ssebugwawo (Handicap 15) – 70 nett
11Men Group C – Runner-upKalule Mathias (Handicap 27) – 71 nett

Special congratulations to all our winners and participants for making this event a grand success. Your dedication and enthusiasm for the sport of golf are truly commendable.

Together, with partners like Chenosis, we are indeed unstoppable. For further information on MTN Uganda and Chenosis, please visit www.mtn.co.ug and www.chenosis.io.

—– END—–

About MTN Uganda

MTN Uganda is a leading telecoms company in Uganda with a primary objective of carrying on the business of a national operator of a telecommunications network pursuant to the National Telecommunications Operator (NTO) licence granted by the Uganda Telecommunications Commission (UCC). Among our offerings are network services, digital and financial technology services, interconnect and roaming, sale of mobile devices, and MTN Mobile Money (conducted through subsidiary MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited). MTN has a presence in all 134 districts of Uganda. Services are delivered through a network of over 164,000 MoMo agents, 268,0000 MoMo merchants, 200 service stores and 13 main distributors. For the period ended 31 March 2023, MTN Uganda had 17.8 million subscribers, 11 million MoMo users, and 6.7 million active data users. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug or follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnug for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our 240 million customers in 21 countries in Africa and the Middle East. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code “MTN.” We are pursuing our Ambition 2021 strategy, focusing on growth in data, fintech, and digital businesses.

For more information, please contact:

MTN Uganda Press Office: mediadesk.ug@mtn.com

Rhona Arinaitwe: Rhona.Arinaitwe@mtn.com or 0772 123 067

Prisca Baike: prisca.baike@tbwa-uganda.com  or 0782 654 083

In a thrilling clash that resonated with the passion of Busoga’s football aficionados, reigning champions Bukooli Namayingo emerged victorious with a confident 2-0 win over Bunhole Bunanumba in the opening fixture of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup. The showdown unfolded at the Bwondha primary school playground on a day pulsating with excitement along the Mayuge-Bwondha highway.

The fixture marked the kickoff of a highly anticipated tournament, supported generously by MTN Uganda, who have contributed a significant portion of the sponsorship package, injecting life into this colorful sporting spectacle.

Iduma Odenga’s Screamer and Levis Barasa’s Clincher

The reigning champions, Bukooli Namayingo, seized control of Group C with a compelling victory over their local rivals. Iduma Odenga stole the spotlight with a breathtaking 30-yard screamer that found the net after 22 minutes, unleashing euphoria among the supporters who had flocked to witness the action. The drama reached its crescendo in the 91st minute, as Levis Barasa Muwango calmly slotted home a tap-in to secure the 2-0 triumph.

Reflecting on the victory, George William Wamala, the head coach of Bukooli-Namayingo, applauded his players for executing the game plan of securing an early advantage. “We had a game strategy of scoring earlier to boost our confidence in the game, and that really paid off until we got the caution goal. But in our training session, we must work on our possessive approach as Bunanumba really dominated us in the second half,” Wamala commented.

MTN Uganda and Haojue Motorcycle Company Celebrate Large Turnout

The atmosphere surrounding the event was electrifying, with legions of passionate football enthusiasts converging from every corner of Busoga’s chiefdoms. MTN Uganda’s Manager for Sponsorships and Events, John Paul Okwi, expressed his elation at the remarkable turnout, noting, “Today we had a much bigger audience than last year’s on the opening day. This indeed shows how excited our people from Busoga are through sports such as football. As MTN, we shall continue to support such events that draw such large audiences.”

Wei Biao, Manager of Haojue Motorcycle Company, echoed the sentiment, thrilled to witness the fervent response of the crowd. The Deputy Prime Minister of Busoga Kingdom, Osman Noor, extended gratitude to the sponsors for their role in stirring up enthusiasm through sports. “This large turn up indeed shows how excited people are when big companies like MTN Uganda and Haojue Motorcycle inject money to support sports development,” Noor affirmed.

Enhancing Teams and Prizes

Busoga Kingdom’s Sports Minister, Amin Nkono Bbosa, acknowledged the impact of sponsorships in orchestrating such a vibrant event. Bbosa highlighted that all 14 Masaza Cup competing teams had received two sets of jerseys, and the top four semi-finalists were rewarded with an increased prize purse. “This crowd has come here because of MTN Uganda and other sponsors that have indeed helped us organize such a colorful event. As event organizers, we are very grateful for MTN Uganda,” Bbosa lauded.

Kigulu vs. Bulamogi and More Action-Packed Encounters

The football frenzy will resume on Saturday when two-time champions Kigulu host Bulamogi at the Iganga Saza Ground. Meanwhile, Butembe, former one-time winners, will square off against Bukooli Bugiri at the Bugembe Stadium. The action-packed weekend will conclude on Sunday as Bugabula takes on Busiki at the Kamuli Municipal Stadium.

In this year’s fiercely contested competition, the collective contributions of MTN Uganda, Haojue Motorcycles, and Nile Breweries have amounted to a total sponsorship injection of Shs 500 million.

MTN Uganda’s journey towards delivering Uganda’s best network experience marked a significant milestone today with the lighting up of its next generation 5G network which is delivering higher peak data speeds, ultra-low latency, increased reliability and greater network capacity.

MTN Uganda is set to revolutionize the digital landscape and redefine the way Ugandans experience connectivity with deployment of 5G sites across all the cities in Uganda with the roll out having started with sites in Kampala at Lugogo and Bugolobi areas, enabling MTN customers in the area the ability to access 5G.

This significant advancement is poised to impact every aspect of daily life, from transforming industries to enriching entertainment, and catalyzing innovative breakthroughs that will shape the future.

Today’s events come on the back of government’s allocation of 5G spectrum to MTN in June this year but is also the culmination of extensive 5G trials and testing first in 2020 and most recently in April 2023 when MTN Uganda and partners Huawei, and Hima Cement collaborated to showcase the 1st Commercial 5G use case in Kasese, Uganda. 

This exemplified how investing in 5G technology future-proofs MTN Uganda’s infrastructure and positions Uganda competitively in the global digital economy.

Speaking at the media briefing held at MTN Headquarters, Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, expressed her excitement, stating;

“We are incredibly proud to be the first to be live with a 5G network in Uganda, and we firmly believe that this cutting-edge network service will play a pivotal role in driving ICT solutions for economic growth and fostering unparalleled digital experiences for all Ugandans,

For the past two years we have been actively innovating around the potential of 5G with our partners and we are confident that we have built a strong foundation to grow and support our 5G ecosystem to deliver an exceptional experience for our customers.”

She further emphasized, “This momentous event represents a leap forward for Uganda’s technological landscape. MTN Uganda is committed to bringing the latest network services to Uganda to ensure that together, we are unstoppable.”

Gratitude was extended to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) for granting the 5G spectrum license, a move that reflects the shared vision of driving economic growth and empowering Uganda in the digital era.

By embracing 5G, MTN Uganda seeks to open doors to more investments, foster innovation, and position Uganda as a digital hub in the region.

In ideal conditions, 5G is up to 100 times faster than its predecessor, 4G, and drastically reduces data transmission latency to a mere 5 milliseconds, significantly enhancing user experiences across various digital applications.

This new generation technology will unlock the full capabilities of next generation services such as virtual and augmented reality, ultra-high-definition video streaming, artificial intelligence, robotics, automated cars, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The UCC has set ambitious targets, and MTN Uganda is committed to meeting them. Within 12 months, the goal is to achieve internet speeds of at least 50 Mbps and provide 100% indoor coverage in Kampala City by the end of July 2024. 

These milestones are expected to fuel growth in the ICT sector and solidify MTN Uganda’s dedication to driving digital solutions for Uganda’s progress.

Ali Monzer, MTN Uganda’s Chief Network service and Information Officer (CTIO), revealed that work to fulfill these commitments to UCC has already commenced, with plans to have all the MTN sites across all cities of Uganda upgraded to 5G in the next two years.

He said: “Today, we are demonstrating to all Ugandans that 5G is no longer just an idea – it is here, it works, and it has the capacity to bring about exponential improvements to our economy, and to the lives of all our customers,

As we roll out 5G network services across the country, customers can soon expect to see the 5G icon on their compatible smartphones and devices, ushering in an era of unparalleled connectivity and digital experiences,”

Monzer further highlighted the transformative impact of 5G network service on businesses in Uganda, bringing greater efficiency and productivity to industries. 

He pointed out that the 5G network services will complement MTN Uganda’s growing fibre  and 4G network.

As part of its Ambition 2025 strategy, MTN Uganda continues to invest in infrastructure and partnerships to remain at the forefront of the telecommunications industry, providing faster, more reliable connections to its customers and revolutionizing the way businesses operate in Uganda.

The MTN Tooro Kingdom 2023 Masaza Cup Tournament has reached an exhilarating stage as four counties secured their spots in the semi-finals. The football matches and the equally thrilling MTN Tooro Kingdom Masaza Bicycle Races in Karugutu showcased skill, sportsmanship, and determination, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.

The Group C Football matches held on Sunday at Karugutu Primary School playground saw intense battles between the teams, all eager to secure a spot in the semi-finals and compete for the coveted title. In the first game, Burahya clashed with Bunyangabu, with Burahya coming out victorious with a 1-0 scoreline. Meanwhile, the match between Ntoroko and Bunyangabu ended in a goalless draw. In the final game, Ntoroko and Burahya battled fiercely, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

With these results, Burahya earned 4 points, securing their place in the semi-finals set to take place on July 28. In the first semi-final match, Mwenge North will face Mwenge South, and in the second semi-final, Burahya will likely meet Kyaka if Kyaka’s pending petition is resolved in time.

The Tooro Kingdom MTN Masaza Bicycle Races saw over 30 participants competing in two categories – sports bikes and ordinary bikes – over a challenging 34 Km route from Karugutu to Kakooge and back.

In the sports bikes category, Albert Ajuna showcased exceptional speed and skill, crossing the finish line first and securing the top spot. Yusuf Kusemerwa demonstrated great prowess, claiming the second position, while Kevo Mubarak, David Baluku, and Fenehasi Muhindo qualified as the top five riders.

In the ordinary bikes category, Steven Black displayed his cycling expertise, clinching the victory. Ashaba Sele, Robert Musinguzi, Sqad Businge, and Joseph Alituha secured the second to fifth positions, respectively.

The semi-finals for the bicycle racing tournament will culminate in the grand finals on August 12 in Fort Portal city, with Albert Ajuna and Steven Black advancing as winners from their respective categories.

The MTN Tooro Kingdom Masaza Cup Tournament and Bicycle Races have been made possible through the support of MTN Uganda, the main sponsor. The winner of the football tournament will be awarded a trophy and a cash prize of Shs 5 million, with the runner-up receiving Shs 2.5 million.

In the bicycle races, the winner of the ordinary bikes category will be rewarded with Shs 1.5 million, while the sports bike champion will receive Shs 1 million.

King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru, the monarch of Tooro Kingdom, is expected to grace the grand finals of the tournament which have been used as a platform to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS among his subjects. 

As the semi-finals approach, football enthusiasts and cycling enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the thrilling clashes between the talented counties and cyclists. Emotions are running high, and the quest for glory is at its peak, promising a series of unforgettable moments in Tooro Kingdom’s sporting history.