Reports: Bulemeezi patron Mutalaga rewards players with doubled bonus despite Kyaggwe defeat
By Kayiira Jackson
Bulemeezi Ssaza patron Frank Mutalaga has thrown his support behind the team’s players by doubling their match bonus despite Sunday’s heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Kyaggwe in the 2026 Masaza Cup.
The businessman made the gesture shortly after the Matchday Three encounter, rewarding the squad for what he considered a spirited performance even though they left empty-handed. Instead of the usual Shs100,000 winning bonus, each player will reportedly receive Shs200,000 as motivation ahead of the team’s next fixture.
The decision comes at a difficult time for the two-time Masaza Cup champions, who are still searching for their first victory of the campaign. Bulemeezi have collected just one point from their opening three matches, following two defeats and a draw.
The poor run prompted changes on the technical bench, with head coach Leo Ssekamatte relieved of his duties and replaced by David Katono Mutono. However, the new coach’s tenure began with defeat as his side narrowly lost away to Kyaggwe.
Kyaggwe took the lead in the 48th minute through Ronnie Ziraba before Eric Kibirango restored parity for Bulemeezi seven minutes later. Just as the visitors looked set to earn a valuable point, Emmanuel Shinkanga struck in second half stoppage time to seal a dramatic victory for the hosts and earn the Man of the Match award.
Despite the defeat, Bulemeezi’s display impressed Mutalaga, who opted to reward the players’ commitment rather than focus solely on the result. The increased bonus is expected to lift morale as the team prepares for a crucial clash against Gomba next weekend in Luweero.
Bulemeezi are targeting a third Masaza Cup crown, having last lifted the prestigious title in 2023.
Matchday Three Results
- Ssese 3-0 Busiro
- Buvuma 2-1 Buluuli
- Kabula 0-2 Bugerere
- Mawogola 1-0 Kooki
- Buweekula 0-1 Buddu
- Butambala 1-0 Ssingo
- Mawokota 1-0 Gomba
- Busujju 1-0 Kyaddondo
- Kyaggwe 2-1 Bulemeezi