ONE FINAL. ONE SHIELD. A NEW HOME.

TY Omujuma and FC Machando battle for the Season 16 crown as the Ntare Lions League finally comes home to The Den.

THE FINALISTS

The best defence meets the best attack on the grandest stage of the Ntare Lions League.

TY Omujuma

When it comes to dominance and consistency in the Ntare Lions League, there is no better example than TY Omujuma. The Ntare School Class of 2009–14 recently made history by becoming the first NLL side to reach four consecutive finals—a remarkable feat made even more impressive by the fact that they concluded the season undefeated and without conceding a single goal.

TY Omujuma goalkeeper Melvin Lotus and defender Kagezi Noel, who also doubles as the team’s captain, were both named to the three-man shortlist for the recently concluded season’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Their nominations are a testament to the integral role they played in keeping their goal locked down throughout the season.

They achieved this on the back of an impressive, trophy-winning campaign last year in Fort Portal, where they lifted the shield for the first time and became the 10th NLL side to be crowned champions. While many expected a “champions’ hangover,” TY Omujuma clearly had other plans.

Pictorial: Ty OMujuma Squad

What lies ahead for them?

With unprecedented milestones already under their belt, TY Omujuma can set another historic record with a win in Saturday’s final. They have the chance to become the first and only team to win the Lions League shield in back-to-back seasons.

However, a loss would mean tying a record they are desperate to avoid: joining Abazibu and Ebicuncu as the teams with the most NLL final losses, with three apiece.

FC Machando

On the other side of the pitch, FC Machando became the 13th Ntare Lions League team to earn a shot at the ultimate prize. The Ntare School Class of 2004–09 has shown immense patience and a resilient, never-give-up spirit over the years, having narrowly missed out on the final in each of the past three seasons.

Unsurprisingly, league data from the past four seasons ranks them as the second-most consistent team, behind only TY Omujuma, having been regulars in the 3rd/4th-place play-off games at recent finales.

Pictorial: Machando FC Team

Their electric attack has been pivotal to their qualification this year. They were the highest-scoring team in the league last season, netting 43 times in 19 games. Their talismanic striker, Oshaba Marvin, who plays professionally for Maroons FC, was also nominated for the season’s MVP award.

This follows his recent MVP-winning performance in the Ankole Cup, a tournament he helped his side win after scoring twice in the final.

Machando could now become just the 11th side to engrave its name on the iconic Ntare Lions League shield and the sixth to do so on its very first final appearance.

PAST MEETINGS

The two sides have met eight times in the regular league, with TY Omujuma emerging victorious on five occasions, drawing once and losing twice.

They have also faced off in the Crichton Cup final before where TY Omujuma outclassed them opponents in a dominant 4–0 victory.

Will TY Omujuma’s historic pedigree in this fixture guide them to a record-setting, back-to-back title, or will Machando’s explosive attack finally dismantle TY Omujuma’s impenetrable defence on the grandest stage of all?

THE LONG-AWAITED HOMECOMING

After 15 seasons of operating as a nomadic competition, the Ntare Lions League (NLL) is set to officially inaugurate its brand-new permanent home and the first of its kind “The Den” in Kasangati this Saturday, at the climax of the highly anticipated Season 16 Grand Finale.

For years, the league has served as far more than a standard football tournament; it is a weekly and seasonal pilgrimage celebrating alumni brotherhood, passion and culture. Yet, for over a decade, the NLL carried its vibrant spirit across rented turf.

Kings Park Arena, Kampala

From its initial iterations at UICT to stints at Kyadondo, Namboole, Gems Cambridge, Kings Park Arena, Kampala Quality and the Luzira Prison Grounds, the league grew exponentially despite the logistical hurdles of setting up temporary structures and sponsor tents every weekend.

The league’s quest for a permanent address has also seen its finales hosted nationally and internationally from Kampala to Mbarara, across the waters of Jinja, into Kigali, Rwanda, and beneath the peaks of Fort Portal. Every city has added a unique chapter to the NLL story, demonstrating the vast reach of the fraternity.

IPRC Stadium, Kigali

Driven by explosive growth from four original teams to a robust 21-team roster, the league eventually outgrew the capacity of rented venues. What once seemed like a distant dream has now materialised into tangible blueprints, brought to life through dedicated alumni mobilisation, strategic partnerships and the relentless administrative efforts of the Ntare School Old Boys fraternity.

Ahead of the final whistle this weekend, league leadership and partners will officially break ground for the future NLL Home Ground. The development is expected to eliminate the persistent logistical hurdles brought about by the league’s nomadic history.

Kampala Quality

The new sanctuary is designed to feature a state-of-the-art pitch and modern amenities tailored to serve generations of Lions to come.

This Saturday’s groundbreaking ceremony sets the stage for immediate competitive glory. The Grand Finale features a heavyweight clash between Machando FC and TY Omujuma.

As these two powerhouses meet on the threshold of a new era, both sides have a historic opportunity to have their names permanently engraved in NLL history as the first champions crowned at the league’s true home.

T.Timo Writes.

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, TY Omujuma (the NLL reigning champions) emerged as champions of the 09-14 Coalition Tournament, held at the iconic King’s Park Arena. This was after edging out Peaky Blinders on penalties. The tournament, now in its second edition, gathers teams across the various alumni leagues that were in secondary school from 2009 and completed in 2014. These come to compete, showcase emerging talent, and build community through sport.

The final match saw TY Omujuma firmly impose their style; sound defense, incisive attacks, and disciplined teamwork, earning them the trophy in front of an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, family, and other football enthusiasts. Their win not only cements their position as a dominant force in alumni school leagues but also underscores the importance of development pathways in Ugandan grassroots football.

The tournament attracted The Budo League’s Peaky Blinders (who lost the final), Namugongo’s Tuli Kali, Chaapa League’s Rugabo City, Knights of Ndejje League, Uptown Pirates of SHACK League, Namilyango’s Barbarians and Cityzens from the Macos League.

For TY Omujuma, this victory is more than just silverware. It’s a statement of promise. Having suffered setbacks in the first edition where they lost in the group stages, they had come out this time around promising to clinch the title.

TY Omujuma is also the only cohort in the coalition that came for the tournament as defending champions in their mother league – NLL. The heroics by their goalkeeper of the day, Henry Twinomujuni, saw him being crowned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).

“I became TY Chairman at a time when we had lost two back-to-back NLL finals. The morale in the cohort was low, and I promised them that we will win so much, they will forget that we ever lost. This win is one of those and there are many more to come.” Patrick Ngasirwa, the Chairman of TY Omujuma told our reporter.

TY are yet to play a competitive game in the Season 16 campaign of the NLL having kicked off their campaign with a friendly against Bweras FC. They will play Machando FC on Sunday October 12, 2025, at Luzira for their first game of the season.

The curtain officially closed on an electrifying Season 15 of the Ntare League – and standing tall at the summit are the formidable TY Omujuma, your new champions! TY Omujuma was crowned in Fort Portal by His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Igiru Rukidi IV who was the guest of honor at the finale that took place at St. Leo’s Kyegobe grounds.

After months of thrilling matchdays, unwavering dedication, and unforgettable moments, TY Omujuma delivered a standout performance throughout the season, culminating in a well-deserved championship title. Their journey was defined by tactical brilliance, team chemistry, and unrelenting determination — the true mark of champions.

The finale looked like it was going goalless and into penalties like the Season 14 finale in Kigali, but an Allan Dziz late winner ensured that it did not. Dziz who had just been substituted back on was in the right space for an assist from Joseph Musinguzi who had capitalized on a defensive error by Dawson Twesigye of Kalele.

His left footed strike sent a crowd of TY supporters into the pitch and with less than two minutes to go, the game ended 1-0 in favour of TY.

Congratulations to the TY Omujuma class for etching their name in Ntare League history! This win is not just a testament to their talent on the pitch, but also the brotherhood and competitive spirit that defines what the League is all about.

Omujuma lost one of their founding members earlier in the season – Allan Ategyeka (RIP) and everyone knows how much the late would have enjoyed this moment. We congratulate TY for making him a champion in the afterlife.

As we celebrate the Season 15 victors, we also extend our gratitude to all the teams, fans, sponsors, and organizers who made this season a resounding success. Here’s to more greatness, more memories, and more beautiful football. See you in Season 16!

• Ntare Lions League Publicity Desk –

 Besigye Barigye Brian writes:
In the heart of the Ntare Lions League lies more than just football — it’s a celebration of identity, brotherhood, and the rich tapestry of memories from the den. Every team name carries a story, a slang, a shared moment that defined a generation of Lions. 

ENSHAZA

This is the youngest team in the league (2017–2023). The lads got their name from the famous Wednesday supper meal in the den, which comprised a comforting bowl of cowpeas — tender with a slightly firm texture, infused with rich flavors from the sauce. The aroma of the cowpeas would waft up, tantalizing your taste buds and making your mouth water in anticipation.

KASHANI

Kashani is jargon for the Saturday movie nights in the lion-shaped Main Hall. The hall is transformed into a cozy movie theater. The lights are dimmed and the projector is set up on a large screen. Seating is arranged to reflect a hierarchy, with the most senior individuals seated in positions of prominence. These movie events became memorable high school experiences — shared moments that bonded lions and created lasting memories. Kashani is the class of 2016–2022.

Kashani FC Logo

SC ENSHAKA

Have you ever read something and it doesn’t appear anywhere in the exam? Well, that was known as Enshaka at Ntare School. Imagine the pain of cramming the Portuguese conquest, only to kugwa Enshaka…
SC Enshaka is the class of 2015–2020.

Enshaka Fc Logo

KASASI

Kasasi is derived from entering the examination hall with unauthorized materials — notes, electronic devices, small papers with answers — or even manipulating the exam process itself. We all know the legends of Kasasi and how hard it was to catch them copying.
Kasasi is the class of 2014–2019.

Kasasi Logo

NTURI

This is the class of 2013–2018. Nturi refers to escaping from the den — the thrilling fence escapes that involved finding handholds and footholds, testing your strength and agility. You had to take a deep breath, savor the moment, and swing your legs over. The drop on the other side? Exhilarating.

Nturi Logo

SC ENSAYI

The class of 2012–2017 derives its name from Ensayi, which means the love and passion lions have towards the school. A visible display of Ensayi was during different soccer (soccas) tournaments at the mighty Kakyeka Stadium, where fans composed creative chants tailored to each player and opponent. (“EEE NTARE, EEE NTARE, EE NTARE, EEEE NTARE ELISEMA…!”)

SC Ensayi new logo

SC JABULANI

This is the class of 2011–2016. Jabula(ni) is jargon for the famous UGX 500 lindazi. Its size was almost equal to the Jabulani ball used in the 2010 World Cup — a memory vivid when this cohort was finishing PLE. Jabulas were the perfect escort for evening milk tea.

SC KALELE

Kalele refers to the street soccer played on any available open space in the den — behind Aggrey, New House, Crichton, between Nile and Africa Houses or the defunct Nile desert(now Pearl & Golden houses). Kalele was played after , during or before classes, usually with smaller or no goals. The focus was on ball control and individual skill rather than team strategy. SC Kalele is the class of 2010–2015.

TY OMUJUMA

This is the class of 2009–2014. Omujuma refers to the beans simmered in savory sauce with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes spices. These beans added depth to lunch and supper, making each mouthful rich and filling.

ABASHWEKI

Class of 2008–2013. We all had those top undercover agents in school. In the context of the den, Omushweki referred to someone good at camouflage and secrecy — especially when snitching. Acts of okushweka included classwork, housework, and the sawa ya ogunda.

KABALI

Kabali refers to a record or notice (piece of paper) given to a lion who had failed to meet certain expectations or had broken school rules and regulations. Signing a Kabali was always better before parents found out.
Kabali is the class of 2007–2012.

KISYANGA

Get a fork, pour millet flour in a cup, dish, or jug, add some cold water, stir, then add hot water and watch the effervescence. Don’t forget to muddle. What you’ll get is Kisyanga.
The golden Bisya, as they’re called, first set foot in the den in 2006 — the year Ntare School turned 50.
Kisyanga is the class of 2006–2011.

NSHERA

Nshera is the class of 2005–2010. If you woke up early, you’d enjoy the morning porridge — Nshera. But this wasn’t a meal for the lazy. It took serious determination and fury to partake in this battle of the bowl.

MACHANDO

Machando originates from “merchandise” sold from Ntare School to the outskirts of Kajogo, behind New House and Crichton.
Machando is the class of 2004–2009.

KACHANCHALI

Class of 2003–2008. Named after a famous Agriculture teacher, Mr. Kachanchali, who served as Head of Department in the early 2000s. He was known for his unique blend of knowledge, passion, and engaging teaching style.

MUGUDU

Mugudu is jargon for the long, thick type of mandazi. Enticing and satisfying. Some refer to it as something else — but you’re wrong.
Mugudu is the class of 2002–2007.

KAJOGO

Kajogo is one of the slums bordering Ntare School to the south. A serene haven nestled in greenery, fresh air, and a lot of secrets.
What happens in Kajogo, stays in Kajogo. Kajogo is the class of 2001–2006.

KASHORO

Kashoro means the school canteens — a vital part of the Ntare educational experience. These social hubs -canteens are social hubs that combine delicious snacks with a welcoming atmosphere. Kashoro is the class of 2000–2005.

BONSHE / KAFUBS

Among the oldest cohorts. Bonshe is named after Ntare’s long-serving French teacher and Deputy Headmaster (Admin and Discipline), Mr. Birindwarugaba Eligius. He signed his tests with “Bon chance”, which evolved to Bonshasha, then Bonshe.

Kafubs is the class of 1999-2004.In case you know ‘akafubire’,then you know why the name stuck
Bonshe is the classes of 1995-2002

ABAZIBU

Refers to the hard men of the league — lions now renowned for their mastery and execution of the beautiful tik-tak style of play.
This is a group of lions who are believed to have gone to the den in those days.

BWERAS FC

This team represents the egrets — the ladies who attended Ntare School’s sister school, Bweranyangi Girls’ S.S.S. Bweras is a shortened form of the school’s name, and it’s where the team draws its identity. They bring flair, grace, and a refreshing view to the Ntare Lions League.

FC BWERAS

With the #Road2Fortportal Finale nearing, Machando FC has secured financial support from Gratus Consults as they prepare for the Ntare Lions League’s closing event in FortPortal. Currently in 4th place, Machando FC is aiming to finish in the top two to qualify for the finale.

Gratus Consults, led by CEO Julius Muhwezi, announced the sponsorship during a handover ceremony. The support will assist with travel costs, training facilities, and other preparations for the team’s remaining matches. “We see this as an opportunity to support the league and its community,” Julius stated, highlighting the alignment between Machando FC’s efforts and Gratus Consults’ values.

Machando FC captain Moses Asiimwe welcomed the timing of the sponsorship, noting its potential to boost team morale with four game weeks left. “We’ve worked hard all season and are determined to compete for a spot in the finale,” he said.

The Ntare Lions League, established by Ntare School alumni, has become a prominent Sunday league in Uganda, known for its competitive matches and strong fan base. This year’s finale, scheduled at St. Leo’s College Kyegobe Grounds, is expected to attract significant attention after last year’s showdown in Kigali.

As part of prelaunch activities, Machando FC presented Julius Muhwezi with framed memorabilia and a customized replica to express gratitude for the sponsorship. With the finale approaching, Machando FC is focused on earning maximum points in their upcoming matches to secure their place in the FortPortal event.

The FortPortal showdown promises to be a spectacle, and Machando’s journey is a testament to the power of belief, determination and resilience, as they edge closer to their first finale in the NLL….ENDs.

NLL Publicity team

Nshera Triumphs in Thrilling Penalty Shootout: Origo’s Heroics Secure Victory

On the morning of Saturday 9th March 2024, the IPRC stadium buzzed with excitement as teams engaged in placement games, leading up to the much-anticipated final between TY Omujuma and Nshera FC. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides cheering fervently for their teams. The match itself was a tense affair, with both teams showcasing their skill and determination. However, despite numerous attempts, neither side could find the back of the net during regular play. As the clock ticked down, the anticipation only grew.

Seasoned Goal Keeper Oringo celebrates

With the score deadlocked at 0-0 after full time, what followed was a spectacle of skill, nerve, and determination as the match headed to penalties, where Nshera’s goalkeeper, Origo, emerged as the hero, guiding his team to their 3rd Shield.

The match had all the ingredients of a classic showdown: two evenly matched teams displaying exceptional talent and strategic play. Both Nshera and Omujuma showcased their defensive prowess, denying each other clear goal-scoring opportunities throughout the regulation time. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the clock ticked down, and neither side could break the deadlock.

As the final whistle blew, signaling the end of regular play, the anticipation only grew. Penalties awaited, a test of nerves and precision under immense pressure. Nshera’s fans held their breath and biisaati, hoping for their team to emerge victorious in this high-stakes moment.

The penalty shootout commenced as both teams took their respective turns at the spot. Omujuma stumbled when they couldn’t convert their first penalty, and Nshera faced a setback as they missed their second penalty, intensifying the suspense for a thrilling conclusion. At this crucial juncture, Origo took center stage, poised to leave his imprint on the game.

Origo, known for his composure and agility between the posts from his glory days , proved why he is one of the best goalkeepers in the league. With unwavering focus, he made two more crucial saves, denying Omujuma’s attempts and lifting his team’s spirits. The stadium erupted in cheers as Nshera took the lead in the shootout.

Origo’s impressive performance infused Nshera’s team with confidence, leading to flawless conversions of their penalties by the players. This ensured a 3-2 victory in the shootout, notably without star penalty taker Baino making an appearance. The scenes of jubilation among the Nshera supporters were unforgettable, as they celebrated their team’s hard-fought triumph.

Nshera celebrates winning their third Shield

The victory was a testament to Nshera’s resilience and teamwork throughout the tournament. They faced tough challenges, but they never wavered in their determination to succeed. Olugai’s exceptional performance earlier in the game showcased the importance of having a reliable and composed goalkeeper in crucial situations .

As the day came to a close, Maison Noire Bar & Restaurant hosted the after-party, where players, fans, and organizers came together to celebrate a memorable season and forge lasting bonds of camaraderie.

The Ntare Lions League Season 14 Grand Finale in Kigali left an indelible mark on the world of sports, showcasing the passion, skill, and unity that define the league. As the celebrations continue, fans eagerly await the next season, knowing that the legacy of excellence and excitement will endure.

NLL Publicity Desk 

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