KAMPALA, Uganda – Ugandan musician Ykee Benda has released a new song titled Bonteka to coincide with the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering Uganda’s contribution to the global football celebration despite the national team not qualifying for the tournament.
The song, released on Thursday through Mpaka Records in partnership with EMPIRE, is a high-energy anthem promoting unity, love and the shared passion for football across the world.
Announcing the release on social media, Ykee Benda urged fans to embrace the spirit of the tournament.
“Bonteka my World Cup song is out everywhere. From Uganda, East Africa joining the world in celebration of this great event,” the singer posted.
The track features the uplifting refrain, “One world, one love, one goal, Bonteka!” and references cities and cultures from across the globe, including Kampala and Rio de Janeiro, underscoring football’s ability to bring people together regardless of nationality or background.
Produced by renowned Ugandan music producers Mastermorph and Chemical Beats, Bonteka blends Afro-pop rhythms with a festive stadium atmosphere designed to energize football fans gathering for World Cup watch parties.
The release has been welcomed by music and sports enthusiasts, many of whom had expressed disappointment that Uganda lacked a dedicated homegrown anthem for the tournament.
Radio station Galaxy FM praised the song shortly after its release, posting on X that Ykee Benda had “saved the best for last” with what it described as Uganda’s official World Cup song.
Social media platforms were awash with videos and photos of fans dressed in national colors, dancing to the track and sharing clips from viewing centers as the global football showpiece got underway.
Known for hits such as Farmer, Muna Kampala and Superman, Ykee Benda is a passionate football fan and a supporter of Arsenal F.C.. The singer, who also holds a degree in chemical engineering, has previously spoken about his love for the sport and its ability to unite people from different backgrounds.
Although the Uganda Cranes are not among the teams competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Bonteka gives Ugandan fans a soundtrack to celebrate the tournament while showcasing local musical talent on the global stage.
With the World Cup expected to draw billions of viewers worldwide over the coming weeks, Bonteka is poised to become a staple at fan parks, viewing centers and football gatherings across Uganda as supporters rally behind their favorite teams.
