The Butiki League kicked off its exhilarating journey on April 27th, 2024, right here at the International University of East Africa (IUEA). This inaugural game marks the beginning of a series of monthly matches, scheduled to run until November 2024, promising an exciting season ahead. Organised annually by Kiira College Butiki, this esteemed event draws attention from various dignitaries, including the State Minister of Tourism. Join us as we delve into the highlights of this momentous occasion.
What is the Butiki league?
The Butiki League stands as a revered annual alumni football competition, uniting generations of Kiira College Butiki’s old boys. What began in September 2019 with seven teams has now flourished into its 4th season, boasting an impressive line-up of 21 formidable teams. Beyond the thrill of the game, the league’s essence lies in bridging generational divides, fostering networking opportunities, and upholding the cherished Butiki spirit. Renowned as one of Uganda’s premier leagues alongside the Mwiri League, the Butiki League hosts monthly football fixtures that culminate in the crowning of the season’s champion after eight match days.
Behind the scenes, the Butiki League is orchestrated by various committees, each dedicated to ensuring the smooth running of the competition. At the helm is the executive committee, led by the league’s president, vice president, general secretary, treasurer, and publicity secretary. Working in tandem with them is the leader’s committee, composed of two representatives from each participating team. This collaborative structure ensures that all teams have their needs and concerns addressed throughout the season. Mr. Samuel Wanyera, the league’s founder, serves as its president, while Okello Etik Tong-ololo holds the position of Vice President.
Beyond its growth in participants, the Butiki League has expanded its focus beyond the football pitch. It now serves as a support system for former students, known as old boys, addressing matters such as financial assistance for those struggling with fees at campus. Moreover, it has evolved into a platform for showcasing talent, exemplified by events like this year’s Variety Night.
In addition to fostering networking opportunities, showcasing talents, and serving as a support community, the league has set ambitious philanthropic goals for this year. These include planting 2000 trees and supporting girls in rural areas by providing sanitary pads. To achieve these noble aims, the league earnestly seeks support, driven by its unwavering commitment to give back to the community.
Why choose IUEA to host?
- Expansive Sports Centre: Our vast sports facilities enable the league to conduct three simultaneous matches, optimising time and resources.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: The superior quality of our facilities, including impeccably levelled fields, garnered praise from participating teams.
- Prominence on Extracurricular Activities: At IUEA, we prioritize the significance of sports in providing a well-rounded education. Our steadfast support for football garners enthusiastic participation from both students and faculty. This commitment is underscored by the array of sporting events we host, including the recent Ramadhan Football match organised by our vibrant Somali community.
What happened during the inaugural matches of the Butiki league?
This year, the Butiki League unfolded at our sprawling sports centre, facilitating concurrent matches and efficient time management. Each set of three matches was allotted 30 minutes with brief intermissions, ensuring a seamless flow of the day’s events and involving all 21 participating teams in the tournament’s opening spectacle.
The teams were creatively named based on slang used in Ugandan schools, adding an element of fun to the creative process while paying homage to aspects of Ugandan school culture. For example, the team name “Blue Dollars” refers to soap, while “Yellow Market” alludes to the area where students would engage in barter trade. A Twitter post elaborates on the amusing and unexpected origins of these team names.
The event transcended football, featuring comfortable seating arrangements, a majestic stage, and a diverse array of food and beverage vendors, enriching the overall experience for spectators and participants alike.
Who were the winners of the first day of the Butiki league?
Amidst the intense competition of 30 teams battling it out over 30 matches, only a select few emerged victorious by the day’s end. Undoubtedly, the reigning champions, Nyulya FC, stood tall, clinching the title for the third consecutive year and poised to defend their crown fiercely. In this inaugural round, Super Dip FC secured the top spot with 4 points, closely trailed by Gayembe FC in second place with 3 points, and Aredo FC securing third place with 2 points. Notably, each participating team earned a point, underscoring the spirit of sportsmanship and determination exhibited throughout the tournament.
Was it just about football?
While the Butiki League undoubtedly showcased stellar football talent, the festivities transcended the boundaries of the pitch. Post-match celebrations unfolded during a segment known as Variety Night, where players transformed into entertainers, captivating the audience with a diverse array of performances. From dynamic dance routines to spirited skits, each team embraced the theme of “Lady in the Spotlight,” featuring at least one female performer in their act.
Far from mere rivals, participants united in celebrating their shared heritage and passion for the league, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and friendship. Yet, this is just the beginning of the entertainment journey. Variety Nights are poised to become a regular feature, with the upcoming edition boasting a vibrant “Reggae and Caribbean” theme, promising an unforgettable experience for all involved. However, it’s not just about having fun, as the performances are scored just like the matches, challenging teams to continually innovate and impress.
As the Butiki League continues its journey, we at IUEA are proud to support this cherished tradition, embodying our commitment to fostering excellence in sports and education alike. Join us every last Saturday of the month and be part of this extraordinary tournament, where competition meets camaraderie in an unforgettable experience.
Would you like to be part of one of the largest tournaments in the country? Come and join us every last Saturday of the month.
