Kampala: Stanbic Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth of sport in Uganda and its continued sponsorship of the country’s most prestigious knockout football competition, the Stanbic Uganda Cup.
Speaking during the semi-final draws on Thursday, Lois Aber Kwikiriza, the Stanbic Bank Marketing Manager, spoke of the bank’s long-standing support for platforms that unite communities and create opportunities for young people across the country.
“The Stanbic Uganda Cup remains Uganda’s most prestigious and widely celebrated football competition and as Stanbic Bank marks 35 years in Uganda, we remain guided by our purpose: ‘Uganda is our home, we drive her growth.’ Our investment in sport reflects our belief that growth is not only measured in financial terms, but also in the impact we create in people’s lives,” Kwikiriza said.
Results of the draw saw Kitara FC set to host Vipers SC, while URA FC will host SC Villa in the other tie. The first-leg matches will be played between 1st and 3rd May, while the return legs are scheduled for 15th to 17th May.
Kwikiriza said sport continues to play a critical role in national development by inspiring communities, nurturing talent, and opening doors for young people. She said this has informed Stanbic’s strategic support for various sporting disciplines including football, rugby, basketball, and golf. “Sport has a unique power; it unites us, inspires us, and creates opportunities. It brings together communities from every corner of our country and provides a platform for individuals to realize their potential,” she said.
As the competition enters its highly anticipated semi-final stage, Stanbic Bank acknowledged the passion that the tournament continues to generate among teams and supporters alike. With former champions such as Vipers SC, SC Villa, Kitara FC, and URA FC all having left their mark on the competition, the tournament continues to strengthen the spirit of healthy rivalry and national pride.
Kwikiriza reaffirmed the bank’s partnership with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) in ensuring the continued success of the tournament and the broader development of Ugandan sport. She said, “At Stanbic Bank, we are proud to stand alongside FUFA in delivering a competition that not only entertains but also contributes to socio-economic development. We know that investing in sport has the power to transform lives and create lasting impact for communities.”
The road to the semi-finals has showcased thrilling performances from all four clubs. Vipers SC booked their place after eliminating NEC FC in the quarter-finals, while URA FC mounted a remarkable comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 before overcoming KCCA FC in a penalty shootout. Kitara FC delivered one of the standout performances of the round, defeating Express FC 3-0 to secure their place in the final four.
During the draw, FUFA confirmed that the semi-finals will be contested over two legs, with the aggregate winner advancing to the final. In the event that teams are level on aggregate after the second leg, the away goals rule will apply to determine the winner.
The draw press conference was attended by officials and representatives from the participating clubs, including SC Villa captain David Owori, head coach Zeljko Kovacevic, and CEO Eng. William Nkemba, as well as URA FC player Joshua Lubwama Letti, CEO Allan Tarsis Munaaba, and assistant coach Buts Ssemuyaba.
The Stanbic Uganda Cup remains a key fixture on Uganda’s football calendar, bringing together clubs, fans, and communities in celebration of the nation’s enduring love for the beautiful game.
