Kampala Divisions Cup Launched to Harness Football Talent, Tackle Youth Unemployment

What the report says

The Kampala Cup of Divisions (KACOD) has been launched in Kampala as an annual football competition designed to support youth empowerment, talent development and job creation. According to Nile Post, the event was unveiled at Protea Skyz Hotel and brought together youth leaders from Kampala’s five divisions, along with representatives from the three municipalities of Wakiso. Organisers said the tournament is intended to be more than a sporting contest, using football as a platform for leadership, networking and social transformation.

Held under the theme “United Through Football, Empowered for Life,” the competition will feature teams from Kampala Central, Nakawa, Makindye, Rubaga, Kawempe, Entebbe, Kira and Nansana. The aim is to give young players a chance to display their ability and potentially connect with scouts and other opportunities in the sports sector. A representative for the guest of honour, State Minister for Privatisation and Investment Aminah Mukalazi, praised the youth for organising around a non-political initiative and encouraged them to apply the discipline and connections gained through sports to entrepreneurship, skills development and community service.

KACOD organisers also say the project is meant to address youth unemployment by opening pathways beyond the pitch. They point to possible roles in coaching, refereeing, sports journalism, event management, sports administration, fitness and sports-related business. The longer-term vision includes women’s and school competitions, university fixtures, coaching and referee development, leadership camps and sports business forums.

More broadly, the initiative reflects a common approach in youth and sports development, where local tournaments are used to encourage healthy living, teamwork and community engagement. In this case, the organisers are seeking support from government, local authorities, companies and development partners to expand the programme sustainably.