The Buganda Kingdom is now turning attention to the year ahead following the launch of its expanded 2026 Sports Calendar earlier this month, with officials outlining a packed programme aimed at youth empowerment and long term sports development.
Speaking at the launch on January 13, the Kingdom’s Minister for Youth, Sports and Arts, Robert Serwanga, said the 2026 calendar marks a step up in activity compared to last year, driven by the addition of new disciplines and the return of others that had previously dropped off.
“2026 opens a new chapter of collaboration and commitment as we strengthen youth empowerment and sports development with a more strategic and forward-looking approach,” Serwanga said. “Our goal is to continue providing opportunities for different age groups and sports disciplines to actively participate in the Kingdom’s sporting programmes.”
With the calendar now in place, preparations are underway for a year that will see motorsport return, alongside cycling and a second appearance of badminton. The season is set to begin with the Buganda Sports Awards Gala, which will honour athletes and contributors from the previous year.
Community level competitions remain central to the programme, with the Gombolola Games in football, netball and mweso forming part of the build up to the Kabaka’s Birthday celebrations. Flagship events such as the Masaza Cup, Bika Championships, Coronation Championships and the Kabaka Birthday Run also remain key fixtures.
Motorsport is scheduled to make a full comeback with two major events planned, the Kabaka Birthday Motor Sprint in March and the Coronation Motor Sprint in July. Cycling will feature through the Buganda Cycling Tours across Luweero, Masaka and Lubiri Mengo, combining competition with themes of unity, environmental awareness, social change and sports tourism.
Schools are also set to benefit, with the Buganda Schools Gala providing a multi sport platform for primary and secondary schools ahead of the national schools calendar.
The Kabaka’s Birthday Run remains one of the Kingdom’s most visible sporting and social events, continuing its focus on the fight against HIV and AIDS through the main run at Lubiri Palace and satellite events across the Kingdom and in the Diaspora.
The year will close with the Bika Games, a cultural sports programme aimed at strengthening unity, identity and pride among clans.
With the launch completed and planning now underway, the Buganda Kingdom is positioning 2026 as a year where sport, culture and community development intersect on a broader scale.
