“And it’s a Gooooooaaaaaaallllllllll!”

The energy was high this evening on the football pitch; music, dance, drama, and a dust-filled atmosphere made for a vibrant scene as the much-anticipated Boda Boda Football Championship unfolded. Four strong teams battled it out, with Seeta Team emerging victorious and lifting the trophy along with a cash prize of UGX 500,000. The Mukono Team secured second place and a prize of UGX 300,000, while Goya and Nyenje Teams each received UGX 100,000 as runner-ups.

The event was further raised by the presence of Rev. John Musoke, the Mukono Diocesan secretary who represented the Rt. Rev. Enos Kitto Kagodo, Bishop of Mukono diocese. His attendance added excitement and encouragement to the players and spectators. He commended AEE-Uganda for organizing this impactful mission and emphasized how essential such events are in reaching out to the youth, especially within the Boda Boda community.

“Many young people especially boda riders have distanced themselves from church. But through this mission, they’re not only coming together for football, but they’re also being exposed to the Word of God,” he shared.

He also echoed the bishop’s vision of “MIBA” – Mission by All, which emphasizes peer-to-peer ministry and collective evangelism. “Football has become a tool of connection. It’s bringing those who had drifted from the church back into fellowship and the gospel is being shared right where they are.”

Rev. John also expressed hope that both players and spectators would feel drawn to church after this experience. He encouraged the boda riders to pursue their work with purpose, integrity, and responsibility, avoiding destructive lifestyles.

OscarKagonyera, AEE-Uganda’s Mission Manager, elaborated on the heart behind the Easter Mission: “We came to Mukono this Easter season with a mission to reach the Boda Boda community with the message of salvation. Many of them don’t know why Christ died for us. Through events like this, they not only hear that message but are reminded that God loves them, and He is a forgiving Father. Many even give their lives to Christ and find a place to grow in the church.”

With over 700 attendees and 47 accepting Christ, this event shows that the gospel can ride on the back of culture, sport, and community and still reach hearts with power.