Airtel Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom have renewed their longstanding partnership, extending a collaboration focused on connectivity, sport, culture, and community initiatives across the Kingdom.
The partnership, which began in 2018, aims to support social and economic development, empower young people, promote healthier communities, preserve Buganda’s cultural heritage, and expand access to digital and financial services.
Speaking at the renewal, Soumendra Sahu, CEO and Managing Director of Airtel Uganda, said the partnership aligns with Buganda Kingdom’s Situla Omutindo – Raise the Standard agenda and Airtel Uganda’s efforts to connect more Ugandans to opportunities.
“Owekitibwa Katikiro, Airtel Uganda is aligned with your campaign of Situla Omutindo – Raise the Standard,” Sahu said. “This week, we will be announcing a major rise in the standards with which we connect our people to opportunities — from remote coffee farmers to the isolated island communities of Buvuma. Our partnership has delivered milestones whose impact extends well beyond the programmes themselves, touching communities across Buganda and contributing to Uganda’s broader social and economic development.”
The collaboration has also supported access to Airtel Money, high-speed internet, and affordable voice and data packages. Under the renewed partnership, Airtel Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom will build on these initiatives and explore solutions addressing the evolving needs of Ugandans.
Oweek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda, welcomed the continued partnership and Airtel Uganda’s support for connectivity and community development within the Kingdom.
“Our partnership with Airtel has delivered clear and tangible results, from promoting better health through the Kabaka Birthday Run to identifying and developing talent through the Masaza and Bika tournaments, while supporting the spiritual and cultural values of our people,” Mayiga said. “Partnerships are living things; they must be nurtured, cared for and allowed to grow. As we renew this partnership, we look forward to expanding its horizons and pursuing bigger and better opportunities for the people we serve.”
The renewed partnership will continue to support initiatives including:
- Kabaka Birthday Run: Promoting health and community engagement across the Kingdom
- Masaza Cup Tournament: Identifying and developing football talent among young people
- Bika Cup Tournament: Celebrating cultural heritage through sport and community competition
The two organisations said the renewed collaboration will build on their previous initiatives while creating further opportunities for communities across Buganda. The partnership underscores the role of private-sector collaboration in supporting cultural institutions and driving community development across Uganda.
