The fight against drug and substance abuse took to the football pitch on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, as the Unity Cup brought together Iteso Cultural Union and Kumam Cultural Heritage in a symbolic match at Soroti Sports Ground.

Organized under the ongoing AIDO Network International Drug-Free World Campaign, the match used the power of sport to mobilize communities to embrace a drug-free lifestyle while promoting unity among the people of Teso.

Speaking during the event, Princess Ulrike Pullman Achom, a member of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World and Board Chairperson of AIDO Network International, said the campaign has been visiting schools across Teso to equip learners with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions.

She noted that the establishment of Drug-Free World Clubs in schools, particularly in Serere District, has helped create positive peer groups where young people encourage one another to reject drugs instead of giving in to negative influence.

Princess Ulrike explained that football was incorporated into this year’s campaign because it is Uganda’s most popular sport and attracts many young people.

She emphasized that sports promote discipline, healthy living and teamwork, making them a powerful tool in encouraging youth to stay away from drugs and alcohol.

The winners of the Unity Cup received a trophy courtesy of AIDO Network International. 

His Highnes Dr Paul Jon’s Eganda said the game was a symbolic friendly match between Kumam Cultural Heritage and Iteso Cultural union to use sports to inspire communities to join the campaign to Kick Drugs Out of Uganda.