Local football body FUFA in partnership with Airtel Uganda have Wednesday launched the sixth Airtel Rising Stars U-17 tournament.
The tourney has been scheduled to kickoff on September 9 with Kampala region and later Arua, Mubende, Mbarara, Masindi and Mbale respectively.
State Minister of Sports, Hon. Charles Bakabulindi was the chief guest at the launch that was held at Kibuli SS play ground. The Minister lauded the telecommunications company for investing in the youth programs over such a long time and promised government support too.
“It is encouraging to see companies like Airtel supporting youth football with programs like the Airtel rising stars which have been around for about six years now. The government will continue to support you at all times,” he said.
On his part, Airtel Uganda Chief Commercial Officer Deepak Bhatia gave assurance of continued support towards the program as well as unearthing more talents.
Also in attendance were FUFA officials led by Dr Bernard Ogwel, Darius Mugoye and technical director Asuman Lubowa.
Kitara and Buganda regions are the defending champions in the respective boys and girls categories. Kitara beat Kampala 4-3 after post match penalties in last year’s finals played at the Kakyeka stadium in Mbarara.
Buganda defeated Eastern 4-1 in the same venue.
The winner in both genders bags home a cool five million shillings while second placed take three.