Gomba Lions Turn to Female Leadership in Quest for Sixth Masaza Cup Trophy

By Kayiira Jackson

Gomba Lions have unveiled a new leadership structure that they believe will guide the county to a historic sixth title in the Masaza Cup.

The committee, announced on Friday at the Ssaza headquarters in Gomba District, marks a historic shift for the county team as women take two of the most influential roles in its leadership.

Record five-time champions Gomba appointed Jane Namatovu as the new chairperson, making her the first woman to lead the Ssaza team committee. Former media officer Resty Mbatidde Namugema was also named team manager.

The appointments are part of a wider restructuring aimed at reviving the team after two consecutive seasons of failing to progress beyond the group stages.

The committee was officially presented by the head of sports and youth in Gomba Ssaza, Kimuli Robert, to the county chief Kitunzi Mugabi Fred Williams together with other county leaders who expressed confidence in the new leadership.

“I have no doubt in the new committee and I totally believe in it that it will bring us the sixth trophy,” Kitunzi said while addressing those in attendance.

Kimuli explained that the process of forming a new committee began immediately after the team’s disappointing exit from the group stage last year.

“We started the job of looking for a new committee immediately we failed to get out of the group in September. We made a number of consultations with past leaders who helped us win the previous trophies, so we are very sure that this committee will work,” Kimuli said.

He added that the committee has been given one week to appoint a new coach who will lead the team in the upcoming tournament.

Speaking after her appointment, chairperson Jane Namatovu called upon Gomba residents to rally behind the new leadership and the team.

“I thank Kitunzi and Mr. Kimuli and his committee for trusting me as the chairperson. Yes, they gave me this leadership but I am not going to work alone. I ask all the Gomba people to join us,” Namatovu said.

Team manager Resty Mbatidde Namugema echoed similar sentiments, urging supporters to unite behind the team’s ambition of returning to the top.

“Gomba we are the giants, we lead and others follow. The mission to win the sixth trophy is still on, so I ask all our fans to join us for the common cause,” Mbatidde said.

The 2026 edition of the Masaza Cup is scheduled to kick off on 13 June 2026, with defending champions Buweekula Ssaza Team set to host the opening match.

Meanwhile, Gomba also launched the Kitunzi Cup 2026, a grassroots tournament aimed at identifying talent across the county. Participating teams received footballs and jerseys during the launch. Unlike previous editions, this year’s tournament will be played in a gala format, with matches scheduled on Sundays.

The full committee

Patron: Mwesigye Dan

Chairperson: Jane Namatovu

Vice Chairperson: Wasswa Peter

Vice Chairperson 2: Luzinda Swaibu

Secretary: Lulibe Derrick Nsubuga

Treasurer: Tebusweke Wilber

Media Officer: Bbosa Ibrahim

Head security: Yamulemye Steven

Team Manager: Resty Mbatidde Namugema.