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David GOMBE
Absa Bank Uganda has successfully concluded the 2026 Absa Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament, capping off a week-long celebration of golfing excellence, competition, and community at the Uganda Golf Club in Kitante. The tournament culminated in a vibrant 19th Hole awards ceremony that recognized outstanding performances across four competitive categories.
Supported through a UGX 185 million title sponsorship from Absa Bank Uganda, this year’s tournament marked the bank’s eighth consecutive year as the title sponsor. The tournament attracted over 400 participants, including 32 professional golfers, 58 gross amateurs, and 71 caddies who competed in the newly introduced caddie’s category. A total prize kitty of UGX 28 million was awarded to top performing players across all categories.
Winners across the tournament’s four categories, Caddies, Gross Amateurs, Professionals, and the prestigious Main Event, were recognised during the 19th Hole awards ceremony following a week of highly competitive play. Among the standout performers were Grace Kasango, who won the Professionals category following a 3-hole playoff with Ronald Rugumayo after the two were level on the final day. Joseph Kasozi and Judith Komugisha also emerged winners in the men’s and women’s gross amateur categories.
One of the tournament’s highlights was the introduction of the inaugural Caddies Tournament, a dedicated competition designed to provide caddies with a professional platform to showcase and develop their skills. The initiative reflects Absa’s commitment to broadening participation in golf and creating structured pathways for talent development within the sport. Basil Akinoi and Joweria Namanda emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.
Speaking at the 19th Hole, David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda, emphasized the strategic impact of the bank’s long-term sponsorship saying,
“Eight years in, this tournament keeps proving why it is worth investing in. What stood out for me this year was the Caddies Tournament. Giving our local caddies a professional competitive stage of their own is an initiative we are genuinely proud to have backed, and we fully intend to scale it further. We are honored to be a part of these stories alongside the Uganda Golf Club. Congratulations to every competitor who pushed through the week.”
Beyond the competition, this year’s event marked a significant moment in the Uganda Golf Club’s history, with the ceremonial ringing of the Bell transitioning from the Club Captain to the Club Chairman, reflecting an evolution of one of the tournament’s most cherished traditions.
Uganda Golf Club Chairman Paul Nuwagaba welcomed Absa’s continued partnership, noting that:
“This tournament remains a celebration of tradition, leadership, and the enduring spirit of our club. We are proud to partner with Absa Bank Uganda, whose continued support enables us to grow the game, nurture talent, and create inclusive opportunities for all who are passionate about golf.”
Absa Bank Uganda’s title sponsorship of the Chairman’s Bell is deeply anchored in its brand promise: “Your Story Matters.” By consistently investing in the tournament, the bank continues to leverage sports as a powerful driver for community cohesion, economic opportunity, and grassroots talent cultivation across Uganda.
As the tournament closes, Absa Bank Uganda remains committed to working alongside golf clubs, governing bodies, and players to elevate the game and strengthen Uganda’s position on the regional golfing stage.
