KAMPALA, Uganda — Several livestock markets in Kampala have run low on cattle days ahead of the weekend, as Arsenal supporters stock up for celebrations marking the Premier League trophy handover.
Traders at Owino, Kalerwe, and Rufula markets reported a surge in demand starting Thursday, with groups of fans buying cows for planned feasts and gatherings. By Friday morning, multiple stalls had sold out.
“Arsenal fans came in groups to buy cows for the celebrations. By this morning, we had very little left,” said a trader at Kalerwe market.
The buying spree is linked to events organized by Arsenal fan groups in Kampala to mark the official trophy handover for the 2025/26 Premier League season. Slaughtering a cow is a common practice for major celebrations in Uganda, and organizers said the feasts are intended to bring supporters together for food, music, and viewing of the ceremony.
Butchers said prices rose slightly due to the increased demand. A medium-sized cow was selling for between UGX 1.5 million and UGX 2.2 million depending on size and market.
Market officials said they expect supplies to return to normal early next week once the weekend events conclude.
Arsenal holds one of the largest fan bases in Kampala, alongside Manchester United and Manchester City. Fan groups have been active on social media coordinating meetups and “thanksgiving” events for Saturday and Sunday.
The Premier League trophy handover is scheduled for this weekend following the final matchday of the season.
