The third edition of the Hamz Tournament has officially been launched, with 40 teams already confirming participation ahead of the competition’s kickoff on June 6.
The tournament is fully sponsored by businessman Hamis Kiggundu, who injects Shs100 million annually into the competition.
Some of the confirmed teams include Titans FC, Borne Talent FC, Akright City, City Leopard FC, Union Boda, and Supremacy Lounge, among others.
Speaking during the launch at Hamz Stadium, the tournament general secretary, Ashraf Turyatunga, said the competition was established to identify and promote football talent across Uganda.
“We started this tournament to give back to the people,” Turyatunga said.
He added that several players who featured in previous editions have since joined clubs competing in the Masaza Cup and the Uganda Premier League.
“Some clubs in the Masaza Cup and Super League have recruited players who came through the Hams Tournament,” he said.
The tournament’s technical director, Hakim Kasirye, said this year’s edition will feature changes to the prize structure to reward more teams.
The champions will receive Shs30 million, down from the Shs50 million awarded in previous editions.
Kasirye explained that the organisers decided to redistribute the sponsorship package to benefit a larger number of participating teams.
The runners-up will receive Shs20 million, while the third-placed team will take home Shs15 million.
An additional six teams will each receive Shs5 million.
“We decided to restructure the sponsorship so that more teams can benefit and remain motivated throughout the tournament,” Kasirye said.
He also revealed that the organising committee will provide footballs to all participating teams.
