DTB crowned champions at 2025 Bankers Sports Gala

Hundreds of employees from Uganda’s banking and financial institutions gathered at Kyambogo University grounds on Sunday for a vibrant day of outdoor games, including football, basketball, athletics, tug of war, and sack racing.

The event marked the grand finale of the 2025 Annual Bankers Sports Gala, which began on September 5 and featured 29 participating institutions.

Presiding over the occasion was the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Professor Augustus Nuwagaba, who applauded the spirit of competition and camaraderie among the participants.

Bankers compete in Tug of War at Kambogo. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka

Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) emerged as the overall winners of the gala, amassing a total of 855 points. Their triumph was built on strong performances across both the indoor and outdoor segments of the competition.

Earlier, the indoor games were held at Lugogo Indoor Arena and featured table tennis, badminton, pool, volleyball, netball, chess, and darts. DTB dominated this phase, clinching titles in pool, volleyball, and netball, which gave them a decisive edge over defending champions Bank of Uganda (BOU).

In the outdoor events, DTB secured second place in football and third in the men’s relay, sealing their overall victory. Among the day’s most thrilling spectacles were the tug of war—won by Centenary Bank, who defended their title against Equity Bank—and the football final, where Housing Finance Bank edged DTB 1–0 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.

Centenary Bank Tug of War team that won at the 2025 Bankers Gala. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka

DTB team manager Charles Masereka attributed the win to early preparation, team dedication, and strong institutional support. “Beyond wellness, these games allow our athletes to showcase their talents. We’re proud to have players in the national netball team and several volleyball clubs,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Professor Nuwagaba commended all participants and acknowledged BOU’s role as the main sponsor of the gala. “These games not only promote physical wellness but also nurture leadership, happiness, and the spirit of integrity. Be good people in all aspects, both on and off the field,” he urged.

The 2025 Bankers Sports Gala also featured road running, golf, swimming, and a 30-day fitness challenge encouraging participants to walk at least 5,000 steps daily. Held under the theme “Beyond the Finish Line,” this year’s edition will culminate in the Bank of the Year Awards in November, celebrating excellence that goes beyond athletic achievement.

Bankers Gala 2025 Winners

Gold – Diamond Trust Bank - 855 Points

Silver – Bank of Uganda – 795

Bronze – Equity Bank – 705

Individual Winners on Sunday:

Tug of War – Centenary Bank

Football – Housing Finance

Basketball – I and M Bank

Athletics Men – Centenary Bank

Athletics Women – Centenary Bank

Sack Race – Bank of Baroda

Bottle Balancing Men – BOU

Bottle Balancing Women – Standard Chartered

Fitness Challenge – Bank of Baroda

Quiz – DFCU