By Karim Were
The Easter spirit of unity and empowerment was on full display yesterday, at Kasawo Playground as Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) and Senior Presidential Advisor, presided over the Friends of Sheikh Mafo Easter Monday Football Tournament as Chief Guest.
The lively tournament held in Kasawo Sub-county, Nakifuma County, Mukono District, drew several youth teams from across the region, including Kasawo FC, Ndese FC, Sheikh Shafic Mafo FC, and Nagalama FC, all competing in a spirited showcase of local football talent.
In the opening match, Kasawo FC triumphed over Ndese FC, earning a bull, gold medals, and a cash reward from none other than Hajjat Namyalo. Ndese FC, as runners-up, received a silver trophy, medals and a goat.
In the second match, Nagalama FC edged out Sheikh Shafic Mafo FC in a tense penalty shootout, walking away with a bull, medals, and additional cash prizes.
Adding excitement to the event, popular musician Gravity Omutujju featured among the players, turning out for Mafo FC and contributing to their much pressure asserted on Nagalama.
In a unique gesture of appreciation, Namyalo rewarded goal scorers with 100 US dollars per goal, further motivating players and highlighting the value placed on performance and excellence.
Speaking at the event, Namyalo emphasized the importance of sports in youth empowerment, noting that such initiatives by ONC are designed to nurture talent, promote discipline, and curb crime among young people. She added that talent development has increasingly become a viable source of income for many Ugandan youths, aligning with President Yoweri Museveni’s vision of uplifting the “bazzukulu” through skills and opportunity.
The tournament’s chief organizer, Sheikh Mafo, underscored the role of youth-led initiatives in transforming communities. He highlighted his efforts in mentoring players who have gone on to join top football teams in Uganda, earning a livelihood through their talent. He credited the prevailing peace and stability in the country as a foundation for youth to thrive and pursue their ambitions.
Namyalo’s presence and contributions reinforced ONC’s continued commitment to grassroots engagement, using sports as a platform to inspire, unite, and economically empower the next generation.
The Easter Monday tournament not only celebrated football but also strengthened community bonds, leaving participants and spectators with renewed hope and motivation.
