Bugerere Ssaza delivered a dominant performance at the semi-final stage of the 2026 Buganda Royal Regatta held on Saturday, 27th June at Nakiwogo Landing Site in Entebbe Municipality.
The well-attended event brought together all the 18 counties of the Buganda Kingdom, attracting hundreds of spectators who lined the shores of Lake Victoria as early as 8:00 am for the half-mile and sprint competitions.
Buganda Kingdom Minister for Sports, Youth and Arts, Oweek. Robert Serwanga Salongo, officiated as chief guest. The event was also attended by the head of the Mmamba (Lungfish) clan, Omutaka Gabunga Mubiru Zziikwa V, alongside officials from Bugerere Ssaza leadership, including the head and his deputy, as well as the Deputy Ssebwaana from Busiro.
Riders battled it out in the demanding 1400M race, contested through three heats before the finals, followed by the 600M sprint events. In the end, Bugerere Ssaza emerged top overall, ahead of Mawogola, while Kabula finished third.
Led by skipper Brian Tamale, Bugerere showed consistency and control across both the 1400M and sprint categories.
“We prepared well for this event and I give credit to my teammates and our leaders. We now look forward to the finals in Bunjako on August 22nd,” Tamale said.
The Bugerere team also featured Edrine Lukwago, Erisa Mubiru, Calvin Mugabo, Mifubosis Kayikka, Jackson Mandela, Deo Ssenfuka (head coach), and Godfrey Ssenyonga.
Minister Serwanga commended all participating teams, the local organizing committee, technical officials, divers, security personnel, media, and other stakeholders for ensuring a smooth and peaceful championship.
“The Royal Regatta is one of the treasured traditional water sports in the Buganda Kingdom. I appreciate the teamwork that made this event a success, from Ssaza leadership, riders, technical teams, divers, security, media, and fans alike,” he said.
He further urged riders to uphold discipline and emphasized the importance of responsible living in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Eng. Ben Immanuel Misagga, chairperson of the local organizing committee, also praised the technical team for delivering a well-organized event and promised even better preparations for the grand finale.
“We had a successful championship because of early and proper planning. We shall address the few gaps identified as we prepare for the grand finale on 22nd August 2026 in Bunjako,” he noted.
At the end of the competition, all participating teams received cash rewards, with additional bonuses for the top three. Bugerere Ssaza, the champions, received Ug.Shs 1,000,000, Mawogola got Ug.Shs 700,000, while Kabula earned Ug.Shs 500,000.
The grand finale is scheduled for 22nd August 2026 in Mawokota County.
Pictorial:
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