By Mununuzi Alfred

In a spectacular display of class, pomp and unity, the Old Boys of Kiira College Butiki Old held the Butiki League Season 4 Grand Finale yesterday that set a new standard in Uganda’s Alumni Leagues’ history and Jinja’s entertainment industry. 

The event, which took place at the iconic Dam Waters attracted over 3000 attendees, shattering previous attendance records for any school league final held in Jinja City. 

The night was filled with energy, passion, and unforgettable performances from Luso-flow Kyabazinga Maro, Natty Neithan, Maddox SSematimba and a memorial session for Butiki’s legendary old boy Mowzey Radio. 

The grand finale which was themed around "Bridging Generations, Building Communities” featured different buildup CSR activities like planting 1000 trees around Jinja City, taking donations to Sonrise Orphanage and visits to different tourist sites in Jinja.

A Contest of Rivals and Friends

The Butiki League Season 4 brought together 21 cohort teams from different generations. Despite the passage of time, the competitive spirit was unmistakable and crowds were treated to thrilling games. 

Nyulya FC (1999-2004) emerged winners for the third straight season with an unbeaten run and walked away with a bull after pipping Gayembe FC by 1 point. 

What truly stood out was the unbreakable camaraderie between the players, who, despite competing fiercely, displayed a bond forged over years of studying at Kiira College Butiki.  

Record-Breaking Attendance and Viewership

Whereas the attendance at Dam Waters was itself a jaw-dropping achievement, the radio and online presence were equally impressive. 

According to the Butiki League’s Publicity Secretary Jordan Muwanguzi, the event attracted over 20,000 online viewers across various platforms. 

“We knew this concert was going to be special, but never expected Jinja to ask for water to this extent” said Mugulusi Eddie, the lead organizer and incoming league president. 

The event was live of Jinja City’s Smart FM where the league’s MC Okello Etik was offered unlimited time to update listeners.

Unprecedented Sound and Visual Effects

In addition to the star-studded performances, the Butiki League Grand Finale was a visual and auditory masterpiece. 

Dam Waters was transformed into a multi-sensory experience, with cutting-edge technology that included a 360-degree sound system and pyrotechnic displays that lit up the night sky. 

The audio-visual spectacle was meticulously planned to ensure that every guest, whether in the front row or the back of the arena, felt as though they were in the heart of the action. 

The sound quality was so precise that fans could hear every note, every beat, and every voice with crystal-clear clarity, even from the highest seats.

A Moment of Unity

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the performances, the event had a deeper significance. It was a celebration of unity and partnerships, with Butiki Old Boys and Trinity College Nabbingo Old Girls of Alix House coming together to create something extraordinary. 

Current students and teachers at Kiira College Butiki matched with their old boys through Jinja Town and later had a friendly football match between the school team and the league’s select team that was won by the students. 

The Jinja Corporate League team also played against the Butiki Teachers’ team. The Trinity College Nabbingo ladies spiced up the evening a stunning performance of Amapiano dance that not only consolidated the Butiki-TRICONA alliance but also set the tone for the rest of the evening.

A Night to Remember

As the incoming Butiki League President Mugulusi Eddie gave his concluding remarks, the huge crowd gave a standing ovation that lasted for several minutes. The atmosphere was electric, with old boys and party goers chanting in appreciation of the unforgettable experience they had just witnessed. 

With the success of this record-breaking event, Dhizaala Allan, one of the key organizers of the league announced plans for a similar event next year, with hopes of continuing to create lasting impact in Jinja City.

 For now, however, it’s safe to say that the 2024 Butiki League Grand Finale stands out as the biggest alumni league event this year, setting records that may stand for years to come in Jinja City.

 The event proved that football truly has the power to unite alumni, and for the 3,000+ lucky attendees at Dam Waters, it was a night they will never forget.