UMEA Solidarity Games secure sh6m sponsorship

The Uganda Muslim Education Association (UMEA) has received a sh6m donation from Mavid Pharmaceuticals Limited to support the 2025 UMEA Solidarity Games. 

The partnership was officially announced on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Mavid Pharmaceuticals offices located at Makay Plaza in Kampala.

“We are delighted to announce a new partnership with Mavid Pharmaceuticals Limited,” UMEA said in a statement.

As part of the partnership, Mavid Pharmaceuticals will sponsor all football competitions and the official ceremonies.

“Mavid Pharmaceuticals will facilitate the opening and closing ceremonies and all football competitions,” UMEA confirmed.

The sponsorship aims to boost the organization of the 37th edition of the UMEA Solidarity Games, which will run from April 17 to April 22, 2025, at Namagabi Secondary School in Kayunga District.

This marks the third time the school is hosting the event.

Over 100 secondary schools are expected to participate, with at least 1,200 students competing in different sports. 

These include football, volleyball, handball, table tennis, badminton, woodball, and netball (girls only).

For the first time, mind games such as chess and scrabble will also be featured in the competition.

“The inclusion of mind games is an exciting addition this year, allowing students to showcase their mental agility in addition to their physical skills,” said Mr. Kitezaala Katumba Twaibu, the UMEA Chairman.

“The games aim to foster talent, sportsmanship, and unity among students from across the region,” He added.

The official opening ceremony will take place on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, with competitions continuing until Easter Monday, April 21. Schools will report on April 17 to begin the week of sports and teamwork.

In 2024, Kibuli Secondary School emerged as the overall champion, winning gold medals in boys’ and girls’ table tennis and boys’ badminton.

 Kawanda Secondary School took gold in girls’ netball and handball, while Masaka Secondary School won the boys’ football final against Madinah Islamic.

Established in 1998, the UMEA Solidarity Games were rebranded in 2013. The 2025 games mark the 10th edition under the new name and continue to grow each year.