Media unite for press freedom in UJA football gala as CHOMA clinch victory
The 22 participating media organisations used the event to symbolically advocate for press freedom, calling on security forces to stop the beatings and manhandling of journalists as they carry out their duties.
Brig. Gen. Moses Shaban Lukyamuzi hands over a trophy to the winners of the 2025 UJA media football gala. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
Media practitioners momentarily set aside their workplace challenges to take part in a football gala organiSed by the Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) at Kitante Primary School grounds on Sunday.
The 22 participating media organisations used the event to symbolically advocate for press freedom, calling on security forces to stop the beatings and manhandling of journalists as they carry out their duties.
CHOMA players celebrate after winning the 2025 UJA Media football Gala. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
This was the third edition of the UJA Gala, held annually to mark World Press Freedom Day.
The teams competed in a five-a-side format on quarter-sized pitches, with matches played in two halves of 7.5 minutes each.
Making their debut appearance, the Church of Uganda Media Association (CHOMA) emerged victorious after defeating KBS TV 3–1 in the final. The final match, played in front of chief guest Brig. Gen. Moses Shaban Lukyamuzi, lasted 10 minutes.
CHOMA players celebrate after winning the 2025 UJA Media football Gala. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
Bukedde was eliminated in the quarterfinals by the Umbrella team.
Brig. Gen. Lukyamuzi, formerly responsible for land issues at the President’s Office, commended the participating media organizations and pledged continued efforts to improve the working relationship between the press and security agencies.
“The engagement shall continue,” he said.
UJA President Mathias Rukundo praised the teams for showing solidarity in the fight for press freedom worldwide.
CHOMA and KBC players vie for the ball in the final of the 2025 UJA Media football Gala at Kitante May 4. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
“UJA was founded in 1963, and we’re proud that teams associated with the Buganda Kingdom reached the final. As we continue to advocate for press freedom, we also extend our congratulations to His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda, Muwenda Mutebi, on his 70th birthday,” Rukundo said. “UJA is also approaching 70 years, and we are hopeful for greater press freedom not only in Uganda but around the world.”
KBS TV received silver medals, while CHOMA walked away with gold medals and a large goat as their prize.
UJA Press Freedom Results
Football Final
CHOMA 3 KBS TV 1
Semifinal
KBS TV 6 Umbrella 5
CHOMA 1 Family FM 0