The 18 counties of the Buganda Kingdom have entered the final stretch of preparations for the annual Masaza Boat Competitions, with teams holding dawn training sessions and cultural ceremonies along Lake Victoria ahead of the highly anticipated opening race day at Nakiwogo landing site, Entebbe.
The event, which celebrates both athleticism and Buganda heritage, is expected to draw thousands of spectators and will be graced by officials from the kingdom, according to organisers.
Crews from powerhouses like Kyaddondo, Buddu, Busiro, and Ssingo have been training daily since May. Coaches are focusing on paddle synchronisation, endurance, and race tactics.
“We are not just racing for Busiro. We are racing for the pride of our ancestors,” said Moses Obedi, representative of the Buvuma team, after a morning session on the lake.
Busiro head coach Emmanuel Nsubuga said his team is grateful for the Kingdom’s support and ready for the competition.
“We are very glad that the Kabaka has thought about the fishermen and our communities. We’ve been behind because we were not trained to handle such boats before, but today we are glad the Kabaka came and gave us both support and a chance to participate.”
In addition, he noted that they are focused on giving a good performance, “We are using these remaining days to prepare for the finals on Saturday. We have been training consistently, so we are more than ready for the competitions.”
Traditional boats get cultural upgrades
Each county’s traditional wooden boats, are being repainted in county colours and adorned with clan symbols.
Masaza chiefs and team managers have turned to social media to rally support. WhatsApp groups are coordinating travel, and selling county jerseys.
Innocent Agongyera, one of the organisers, highlighted that the winning county will receive shs 1 million in addition to other gifts like certificates and jerseys, among others.
“The competitions also serve as a key cultural event on Buganda’s calendar, promoting unity and traditional skills,” he added.
The final race day is scheduled on 27th June 2026 at Nakiwogo landing site, and fans are urged to follow arrangements and also to attend in big numbers.
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