Real Madrid Foundation to develop a social sports school in Uganda

The Real Madrid and Xcalibur Foundations have joined forces with I&M Bank to develop and grow social sports at the Naguru Katale Primary School in Nakawa Division.

The agreement, which takes effect next season, will enhance the sports and social education of vulnerable children in Uganda. The participation of more than 300 children and the indirect benefit of 700 family members reflect the true impact of this initiative since 2022.

I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow (left) receives a Real Madrid jersey from Vice President and Director of Fundación Xcalibur Javier Lezcano following the unveiling of the partnership at I&M Bank's offices, April 1, 2025. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

This collaboration aims to promote holistic development, social inclusion, and ethical values through sports. The initiative’s primary goal is the holistic development of children through sport, contributing to improved physical and mental well-being, as well as fostering values such as solidarity, respect and teamwork.

The mission of Fundación Xcalibur is to support the education of children, youth, and women in vulnerable situations by using sports, training, and culture as motivating tools. The new partner, I&M Bank, aims to consolidate and expand the Naguru Social Sports School in Uganda, with plans to extend the project to more schools. To ensure the smooth operation of this initiative, Fundación Xcalibur will be responsible for implementing the project on the ground and allocating the funds received from I&M Bank to cover the program's operational costs. The Real Madrid Foundation will oversee the proper application of its methodology by providing training and monitoring the coaches involved in the program.

"At the Foundation, we are excited and motivated to continue our mission in Uganda through this expansion. We are grateful to have influential partners in both the sports and financial sectors who share a strong interest in social and human development," said Javier Lezcano, President and Director of Fundación Xcalibur.

I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow (center) and the Vice President and Director of Fundación Xcalibur Javier Lezcano (4th left) poses with I&M Bank's Chief Business Officer Edward Gibson Nangono (2nd left), Executive Director Sam Ntulume (3rd left), Patron of XCalibur Ceasar Scott Balore (4th right), Naguru Katale Primary School's Games Teacher Matilda Tino (3rd right), coach Milton Otalai and Annette Nakiyaga (right) the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank together with the children of Naguru-Katale PS at the I&M Bank offices, April 1, 2025. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“The bank is more than a financial partner, they are a partner for change, a team ready to grow this project, support more children and actively engaging the building of a new sports school and education spaces. Their enthusiasm makes them a worthy partner for this project,” Lezcano stated.

Speaking at the launch of the partnership on Tuesday I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow said they are passionate about supporting communities where they operate to be better through their CSR programs that include economic empowerment, environmental conservation, education, and skills development. He added that they were happy and excited to partner with such respected organisations and one of the most prestigious clubs in world football.

“This is a great leap into football which is probably the most popular sport in Uganda and it is against this background that we are partnering with Xcalibur and the Real Madrid foundation in line with our pillars of education, skills development and sports,” Bairstow said.

He said the bank will support the growth and sustainability of the Naguru Social Sports Academy which aligns with their vision to create a sustainable and long-lasting change in the lives of our under-served communities as well as empowering the next generation to reach their full potential through education and especially through sports.

“This expertise in using sports to create positive social change combined with global influence definitely represents huge opportunities for the children that this project will impact in Uganda,” Bairstow stated.

He said one of the Real Madrid legends will visit the country to add an extra layer of expertise and excitement to the Katogo Golf tournament which they also support at Entebbe Club.