MAKERERE University (UGNEWSLINE) –Makerere University Rugby Grounds came alive with music, dance, football and youthful energy as Coca-Cola treated students and revellers to an unforgettable Freshers Ball experience, headlined by some of Uganda’s biggest music stars.
The annual excitement of welcoming new students at Makerere University reached another level as the Makerere Freshers Ball transformed the university’s Rugby Grounds into a vibrant entertainment hub, courtesy of Coca-Cola.
The event brought together freshers, continuing students and other revellers for a day filled with entertainment, football and unforgettable moments, with Uganda’s celebrated musicians, including superstar Winnie Nwagi and Nina Roz, taking centre stage alongside several other performers.
From musical performances to football screenings and interactive brand experiences, Coca-Cola ensured there was something for everyone, giving students the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect and celebrate campus life.
Beyond the music and entertainment, the event also highlighted Coca-Cola’s growing commitment to connecting with young Ugandans through their shared love for football.
Speaking at the event, Barry Otieno, Senior Marketing Manager at Coca-Cola, said the Freshers Ball was part of the brand’s wider effort to bring the excitement of football and entertainment closer to consumers.
“Ugandans love football, and as a brand, we are deeply rooted in football culture. Through our partnership with the Premier League, we are bringing that experience closer to our consumers and giving them an opportunity to enjoy the game in a more exciting way,” Otieno said.
The event featured live football screenings, including the much-anticipated Manchester United versus Chelsea clash, giving football lovers an opportunity to enjoy the Premier League action.
And while football fans had their eyes on the screens, Coca-Cola had another exciting offer for young people: an opportunity to turn their creativity and social media influence into cash.
Coca-Cola Gives Young Creatives a Million Reasons to Create
One of the major highlights of the brand’s ongoing campaign is a user-generated content challenge that gives eligible young Ugandans an opportunity to win up to UGX 1 million every month.
The initiative invites young people to create and share entertaining content showing how Coca-Cola fits into their everyday experiences, whether enjoying football with friends, sharing a meal or spending quality time at their favourite hangouts.
Otieno explained that the campaign is designed to recognise and reward the creativity, talent and social media engagement of young Ugandans.
“We are seeing great talent and amazing creativity among young people in Uganda. We want them to show the world what they can do, share how they enjoy Coca-Cola and stand a chance to earn money through their content,” he said.
According to Otieno, winners are selected based on the views and engagement generated by their content, with the opportunity to win up to UGX 1 million every month.
How Young Ugandans Can Participate
For those eager to take part, the process is relatively simple.
Participants must be at least 18 years old and sign up by scanning the QR code found on Coca-Cola plastic bottles. Registration is required only once.
After signing up, participants can create and publish their videos on their social media accounts using the campaign hashtags:
#CreateWithCocaCola
#EsawaYona
#CocaColaFootball
The more views and engagement their content attracts, the greater their opportunity to unlock rewards.
Otieno revealed that Coca-Cola has already received impressive entries from young content creators, with some participants set to receive their rewards at the Freshers Ball.
He further encouraged those who have not yet participated to take advantage of the upcoming November and December rounds, noting that the campaign will continue until the end of the year, creating fresh opportunities for young creatives to earn.
More Than Just Music and Football
For Coca-Cola, the Makerere Freshers Ball was more than an entertainment event. It was part of a broader strategy to create meaningful experiences for young people while celebrating their passions, creativity and social connections.
Through its partnership with the Premier League, the brand continues to tap into the country’s passion for football while combining sports, music and digital creativity to engage a younger audience.
