The Uganda Premier League (UPL) has secured a financial and technological boost after Centenary Bank signed a one-year partnership worth Shs 204 million, providing fresh impetus to the competition as clubs resume their battle for early-season supremacy.
Announced at the bank’s Mapeera House headquarters in Kampala on Monday, October 12, the agreement makes Centenary Bank the league’s official banking partner for the 2026/27 season, with support targeting league operations, media promotion, player awards and digital ticketing.
The package comprises Shs 100 million in cash to support league operations, administration and programmes, Shs 100 million in inkind media promotion to increase the visibility of domestic football, and Shs 4 million in prize money for outstanding players at the end of the season.
Centenary bank’s digital payments platform, Gonza Pay, will also become the league’s official ticketing partner, enabling fans to purchase match tickets digitally while helping organisers improve attendance tracking and financial reconciliation.
UPL Board chairman Dr. Arinaitwe Rugyendo described the deal as a landmark, saying Centenary is the first indigenous bank to partner with the competition in its history.
Centenary bank managing director Godfrey Byekwaso said the partnership reflects the bank’s belief in football’s ability to unite communities, inspire young people and create opportunities.
The bank also supports sporting initiatives such as the Buganda Kingdom’s Masaza Cup, the Rotary Cancer Run, the Kabaka Birthday Run, the NSSF Run, the Makerere Run and the Annual Muslim Run.
The agreement comes as the league seeks to strengthen its visibility, commercial appeal and professional management, with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) also welcoming the investment.
However, attention now shifts to the pitch, where today (October 14) and Thursday’s fixtures offer several intriguing tests. NEC FC, currently second with 11 points from five matches, travel to Rwamwanja on Wednesday to face newly promoted Kigezi Homeboys.
Still unbeaten, NEC will look to maintain their early title push against a side adjusting to life in the top flight. The match marks the first assignment for Kigezi Homeboys interim coach Kefa Kisala following the departure of Joseph Mutyaba after the defeat to Hoima City.
NEC have drawn twice, against Express FC and Mbarara City, and will be eager to turn their promising start into another victory. Elsewhere, Police FC host SC Villa today, October 14 on Kira Road.
Villa will welcome back goalkeeper David Lukwago, who missed the previous match after international duty, as they seek to recover from their recent trip to Kataka. On Thursday, October 15, Express FC host UPDF at Nakivubo, Kataka welcome reigning contenders Vipers at Bukedea, and URA FC face Entebbe UPPC at Nakivubo.