Ibanda District emerged as the champions of the 2026 Ankole Cup, defeating Bushenyi 5-4 in a nail-biting penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw after regulation time at Kabwohe Stadium . The victory marks a major triumph for Ibanda in what has become one of the region's most celebrated football competitions.
Forward Marvin Orishaba delivered a standout performance, scoring twice in the 34th and 51st minutes to give Ibanda a commanding lead. However, Bushenyi mounted a spirited comeback, with goals from Baale and Aijuka leveling the score and sending the final into extra tension .
The final drew a host of senior government and Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) leaders, including Rt. Hon. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, representing PLU Chairman Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba . PLU Secretary General Hon. Twalla Fadil, Director of Mobilization Hon. Micheal Mawanda, Deputy Director Henry Basaliza, and Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara were also in attendance .
Addressing the crowd, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa praised the tournament for uniting communities through sport . In a major announcement, he pledged, on behalf of Ankole MPs, to lobby for the construction of a standard football stadium in the region to support talent development . He also commended Gen. Kainerugaba for his "generous contribution that spiced up the finals" .
PLU Secretary General Twalla Fadil echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the league's commitment to youth development. "Those trying to confuse our youth need to know there's no other option except the PLU way—fight corruption, support the government, and support talent as directed by our Chairman," he stated .
The Ankole Cup, which involved all 13 districts of the region, has become a cornerstone for grassroots football and community cohesion . Deputy Speaker Tayebwa concluded by thanking the organizers, led by Mushabe Osborn, and confirmed the MPs' commitment to supporting the 2027 edition .
In a remarkable show of generosity, PLU Chairman General Muhoozi Kainerugaba offered a total of 54 million shillings to all 13 districts that participated in the Ankole Cup, a timely gesture that significantly spiced up the finals and rewarded grassroots football across the region.
The electrifying turnout at Sheema Playground was largely attributed to the tireless mobilization efforts of PLU Director of Mobilization, Hon. Micheal Mawanda, who successfully rallied over 100,000 supporters to cheer on their teams and proudly wave the flag of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
We extend our profound gratitude to Hon. Micheal Mawanda, whose exceptional mobilization drive drew over 100,000 passionate supporters to the finals, delivering a powerful show of strength and solidarity for our Chairman, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
