Ntugasaze FC target survival as Betika injects sh100m into debut UPL campaign

Newly promoted Ntugasaze FC have set survival as their main target as they prepare for their maiden Uganda Premier League (UPL) campaign, with captain Douglas Oyirwoth warning against following the path of teams that have returned to the second tier immediately after promotion.

Oyirwoth, who plays at left-back, said the club’s priority is to remain in the top flight and build a strong foundation for the future.

“Our main target is to remain in the league. We do not want to be relegated. We want to stay because, as you know, some new teams in previous seasons have not lasted long and have been relegated immediately. We want to avoid that,” Oyirwoth declared.

The captain made the remarks on Wednesday at Kira Road Police Arena in Kamwokya during the unveiling of a sh100m sponsorship package from Betika Uganda.

The sponsorship is expected to provide Ntugasaze with a timely financial boost as they prepare to compete against more established clubs in the top flight.

As part of the deal, the Betika logo and name will appear on Ntugasaze’s match jerseys, training kits and technical staff apparel.

Betika also announced a sh150,000 cash award for the player of the match after every Ntugasaze game. The incentive is intended to motivate the players to work harder throughout the season.

Ntugasaze president Yosam Ntegereje welcomed the partnership, thanking Betika for trusting the club and choosing to support them at an important stage in their development.

“To the management of Betika, thank you for trusting us. We appreciate you so much for coming to our rescue,” Ntegereje said.

He also praised the players for their contribution to the club’s rise and promised that Ntugasaze would compete strongly in the topflight.

“Trust me, we will compete with the best teams in the league and we will not be relegated,” he added.

Betika’s Desire Akanduhura said the company wanted to support sports at different levels and believed Ntugasaze deserved support because of their ambition.

“We are here to promote sports at all levels. We decided to partner with Ntugasaze because they are a young and ambitious club,” Akanduhura said. He also urged fans to attend their matches during their first season.

Founded in 2018 in Mityana District, Ntugasaze earned promotion to the UPL after finishing second in the FUFA Big League last season.

The Brewers have since relocated their home matches to Kira Road Police Arena, the home of Police FC, as they seek to attract more supporters and meet the demands of top-flight football.

At the same event, the club unveiled its home, away and third kits for the 2026/27 season and introduced new signings to the fans and media.

Under head coach Pius Ngabo and assistant coach Dudu Bosco, Ntugasaze will begin their historic UPL campaign on August 28 against Maroons FC .