Chaapa League alumni being briefed before setting off to Mbarara city

The Chaapa League caravan has moved from Kampala to Mbarara, with teams, fans and alumni travelling on Friday, September 18, 2026, ahead of Saturday’s Season 11 finale at Mbarara High School under the theme “Back to the Kraal”.

Buses lined up at Black Panther in Bukoto, the assembly point, as players, supporters and former students arrived in groups, many dressed in Chaapa colours and carrying the energy of a football trip.

Mbarara High Old students before departure

Separate groups soon became one travelling Chaapa community as different cohorts caught up before setting off.

The teams were flagged off by alumni leaders and authorities, including Uganda Police officials.

Chaapa League alumni before setting off to Mbarara city

The gathering showed the league’s wider appeal beyond football.

For many participants, the trip to Mbarara is a return to familiar school grounds and memories, while for others it offers a chance to become part of a tradition that has grown over the years.

The finale will bring the season to a close, with eight teams entering a knockout battle for the Season 11 title.

Chaapa League alumni before setting off to Mbarara city

The quarterfinals, powered by Guinness, will see Yobo Yobo face CHOGM FC, SC Rwizi take on Dingiswayo FC, See Far meet Bulls OldTimers, and CF Burdizo face Rugabo City.

The winners will progress to the semifinals, with the two surviving sides meeting for the championship.

For Guinness, the league’s sponsor, the return to Mbarara provides another opportunity to extend its football association beyond the matches themselves.

Denise Paula Nazzinda, the Senior Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited, said Guinness is looking to make the finale memorable for everyone attending.

“We want everyone who comes to the finale to enjoy great football, great company and great Guinness moments. Most importantly, we want to make it a Lovely Day for a Guinness,” she said.

Chaapa League alumni before setting off to Mbarara city

The programme will include a women’s fixture, with Holistics, the Maryhill High School alumni team, taking on a select side from the Maryhill Old Girls Association (MOGA).

Ahead of the finale, organisers have also revealed the end-of-season awards that will recognise standout performances and achievements during the campaign.

The awards include: Most Improved Team, Identity Award, Smartest Team, Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Best Midfielder and Best Forward.

David Isabirye is a senior staff writer for Kawowo Sports where he covers most of the major events.

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