The 2026 Ateker Cup of Nations was officially launched on Thursday, June 10, 2026, in Soroti City, with organizers, religious leaders, and regional officials hailing the tournament as a vital platform for fostering peace, unity, and integration among Ateker communities.
Organized by the Ateker Sports and Arts Foundation, the competition brings together teams from Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. Running under the theme “Building Bridges, Building Champions,” this year’s edition will take place from August 16 to 22, featuring football matches, marathons, cultural carnivals, and regional dialogue forums.
Foundation CEO Isaac Olupot emphasized that the tournament was created to unite Ateker communities that have historically faced conflicts and cattle-related disputes. He also announced the introduction of a women’s competition for the first time in the history of the Ateker Cup.
The Ateker community spans Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, and includes ethnic groups such as the Iteso, Kumam, Karamojong, Turkana, Toposa, Nyangatom, and Langi.
Bishop Joseph Eciru of Soroti Catholic Diocese described the tournament as a timely intervention to strengthen brotherhood and peaceful coexistence. He urged participants to use the event not only to compete for trophies but also to build lasting friendships and drive social transformation.
Officials from the Ministry of East African Community Affairs pledged government support for initiatives that promote regional integration.
Chief Guest Ababu Namwamba, Head of Mission at the Kenyan High Commission in Uganda, highlighted the transformative power of sports in advancing unity and development. He encouraged organizers to professionalize and commercialize the tournament by attracting sponsorships to ensure sustainability, while also commending the inclusion of women’s football.
