The fifth edition of the Ankole Cup will return bigger and more ambitious, organisers have confirmed, setting the stage for a tournament that continues to grow in both reach and purpose.
Launched on Monday at Kati Kati in Kampala, this year’s competition will run from June to August and bring together all 13 districts from the Ankole sub-region.
Political leaders including Mwine Mpaka, Francis Mwijuka, Peter Agaba and Mercy Kanyesiga attended the launch, showing the tournament’s growing importance beyond football.
Media and Mobilisation Chairperson Osborn Mushabe said fixtures are set, with teams to play home and away from the group stage to the semi-finals.
He urged leaders, businesses and the public to support the competition, describing it as a platform for unity and regional development.
The 13 districts are divided into four groups. Bushenyi, Sheema and Ntungamo are in Group A. Ibanda, Kazo and Kiruhura form Group B.
Group C has Mbarara City, Mbarara District (Kashari), Rwampara and Isingiro, while Buhweju, Mitooma and Rubirizi make up Group D.
The tournament kicks off on June 6 at Bushenyi Main Stadium, with hosts Bushenyi facing Sheema.
The opening day will also feature a friendly between Members of Parliament and the media, and a schools’ derby between St. Kagwa Bushenyi High School and Nganwa High School.
The final is set for August 16 at Kabwohe Stadium.
Off the pitch, organisers have introduced the first Ankole Cup dinner on May 19 at Hotel Africana, where Thomas Tayebwa is expected as chief guest.
Several changes have been made this year. Each district will register 25 players, with at least 20 locally born and verified through national IDs.
The away goals rule has been removed, with tied knockout games decided by penalties.
Finals will also rotate across districts in future editions.
Organisers say the tournament will continue to promote unity, peace and talent development.
Sponsors have already pledged support, including Shs100 million in prize money, while the Netherlands Institute for Multi-Party Democracy will fund the dinner as part of a sports-for-peace initiative.
