By
Fahad Muganga
Ugandan golf has achieved a significant milestone with a record 18 players participating in the 2024 NCBA Golf Series grand finale at Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi, Kenya. This marks the largest contingent Uganda has fielded in the tournament, reflecting the growing prominence of the sport in the country.
The event, which featured over 240 golfers from East Africa, saw participants from Uganda Golf Club, Jinja Golf Club, and Entebbe Golf Club tackle the challenging 18-hole Muthaiga course.
Mark Muyobo, CEO of NCBA Uganda, lauded the increased representation, attributing it to the rising standards of the sport. “The surge in Ugandan participation is a testament to the country’s advancing golfing talent. Our players are excelling in regional qualifiers, establishing their presence on the East African stage,” he said.
Six Ugandan players, including Aggrey Mutaka, Judith Mugisha, Brian Omeda, Lillian Koowe, Anselm Olweny, and Berna Musanabera, earned all-expenses-paid trips to Nairobi after topping their divisions in qualifiers held earlier this year. Their performances underline Uganda’s emergence as a formidable contender in regional golf.
“Their skill and resilience have firmly placed Uganda on the regional golf map,” Muyobo added.
The NCBA Golf Series, launched in 2021, has played a pivotal role in nurturing talent. Players qualify for the finale through competitive rounds, providing both seasoned and upcoming golfers a platform to shine.
The growing popularity of golf in Uganda is also drawing younger players inspired by veterans like Peter Tumusiime and Peace Kabasweka, who have excelled in past editions of the series.
“Ugandan golf is poised for greater achievements, with more young players likely to step up and represent the country globally,” said Muyobo.
The finale saw stellar performances, with Sarah Nyareru clinching the Overall Winner title. Division winners included John Mburu (Men’s Division One), Emma Pennington (Ladies Division One), Mary Karano (Ladies Division Two), Simon Mathenge (Men’s Division Two), and Elijah Simba (Division Three).
NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora emphasized the series’ dual focus on sporting excellence and environmental sustainability. The bank’s initiative to plant 10 million trees by 2030, supported by indigenous tree donations at each tournament, reflects its commitment to preserving the environment.
“The NCBA Golf Series celebrates talent and unity across East Africa. We remain dedicated to nurturing professional golf and environmental conservation,” Gachora said.
Ugandan golf continues to build momentum, showcasing talent and ambition on a regional stage while fostering hope for a bright future in the sport.