Buffaloes target Uganda Cup and Premiership glory ahead of new season

The pursuit of silverware is top of the agenda for the Toyota Buffaloes ahead of the new rugby season, which kicks off next Saturday, October 24.

The club is targeting ultimate glory in both the Uganda Cup and the National Premiership League.

Despite its 26-year history, the club has never won a major trophy since joining top-flight rugby in 2004, then known as the Nile Special Super Six League.

However, the Buffaloes came close last season, reaching the Premiership final only to suffer a heartbreaking 30-29 defeat to the Stanbic Black Pirates.

Buffaloes chairman Kevin Nyeko revealed the team's ambitions following a ceremony yesterday at the CFAO Mobility offices in the Industrial Area, where the mobility company unveiled the club's new home and away kits.

"We are deeply humbled by the Toyota brand's continuous sponsorship over the past 19 years," Nyeko said.

"We have a strong squad that came very close to winning the Premiership last season. We are not giving up; our goal this year is to pursue both titles. We are going to put up a performance that matches the excellence of the Toyota brand," he added.

Etienne Audeoud, the Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Uganda, reaffirmed his company's long-standing commitment to the club.

"Our partnership with the Buffaloes has grown alongside generations of players who have found opportunities, developed their skills, and represented their country," Audeoud said.

"The team's return to the Premiership final demonstrated what patience, commitment, and belief in local talent can achieve. As we unveil these new kits ahead of the Uganda Cup, we look forward to building on this shared history and supporting the club's ambitions," he added.

Team captain Daniel Otim echoed the chairman's sentiments, noting that the squad is highly motivated and ready to deliver the performances needed to bring silverware home.

The 20-team Uganda Cup tournament officially starts next Saturday, October 24, with preliminary fixtures across the country. The Toyota Buffaloes have received a first-round bye and will open their campaign the following weekend against the winner of the match between the Jaguars and the Kitgum Lions.

The Stanbic Black Pirates enter the tournament as the men's defending champions, having defeated the Platinum Credit Heathens 19-8 in the 2025 final.

Meanwhile, the Nile Rapids are the reigning women's champions following their narrow 22-20 victory over the She Wolves.

Uganda Cup Opening fixtures

In Gulu

Gulu City v Mukono Hawks

In Kabale

Kigezi Silverbacks v Lifeguard Rams

In Entebbe

Jaguars v Kitgum Lions

In Fort Portal

Fort Portal Tyrants v Mbale Elephants