The 2026 Corporate Games Uganda (CGU) season is set to be the largest in the organization’s history, with more than 50 companies already confirmed for the upcoming league.
During a high-stakes Team Manager’s briefing held on Friday, 13th February at Kati Kati Lugogo, the CGU Secretariat unveiled a strategic roadmap for what has been dubbed the “Season of Vibes.” The gathering brought together representatives from a diverse range of sectors, including the Bank of Uganda, National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board, the Judiciary, and the Electoral Commission, to align on the new season’s calendar and governing regulations.
Logistical Shifts and Venue Updates
A key resolution from the meeting was the rescheduling of the season’s opening outing. Originally slated for March 8, the kickoff has been moved to Sunday, March 15, 2025. This adjustment allows participating organizations to observe International Women’s Day without scheduling conflicts.
The Secretariat also confirmed that negotiations are finalizing to make Jeph International University the primary home for the 2026 season. The move to a centralized campus is intended to provide better amenities, including professional-grade pitches and centralized catering options provided by the university.
Clamping Down on “Mercenaries”
Integrity emerged as a central theme of the briefing. CGU Chairman Ian Rumanyika reiterated a zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of “mercenaries”—non-employees hired to win games.
“The Corporate Games is a sanctuary for actual employees to build morale and network,” Rumanyika stated. “We are prioritizing the integrity of the competition over participation volume.”
Under the 2026 rules, any team found utilizing a non-staff member or a student will face immediate game forfeiture and point deductions. Furthermore, the Technical Committee clarified that active, licensed players currently registered with national sports federations (such as the FUFA Premier League) are strictly prohibited from competing in their respective licensed disciplines.
A Diversified Sporting Portfolio
While football remains a dominant feature, contributing 30% to the final league scoring, the 2026 season introduces a broader range of engagement activities. New additions include a Corporate Boxing clinic facilitated by Zebra Boxing Club, as well as Karaoke and Dance challenges in partnership with Blacklyf and Chuusawato Dance Co.
The core competitive disciplines for 2026 include:
- 7-A-Side Soccer: Requires at least two female players on the pitch at all times.
- Basketball and Volleyball: Standard international rules apply with strict gender quotas.
- Athletics and Swimming: Targeted at fostering individual excellence alongside team points.
- Mind Sports: Woodball and Corporate Chess.
Commercial and Social Impact
The season will follow a themed calendar, allowing companies to align their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) budgets with specific outings. Notable themes include the “CEO Outing” in August, “Mental Health Awareness” in September, and the “Corporate Run” in October, which remains a charity-focused highlight for expectant mothers.
Medical safety remains a priority, with Ruby Hospital confirmed as the official medical partner. Professional paramedics and ambulances will be stationed at all outings to manage on-field emergencies.
Attending Partners and Participating Companies
The Friday briefing saw a strong turnout from both long-standing members and new entrants. Organizations present and represented include; Financial & Regulatory Institutions, Government & Parastatals, Healthcare & Wellness Providers, Manufacturing & Industry, Media & Entertainment, Tech & Consumer Electronics, and Community & Logistics.
