A new experience awaits golfers at the Uganda Open Championship in Lugazi

A new golfing experience is set to elevate the competition in this year’s Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship, making history by being held outside Kampala and Entebbe for the first time.

The event kicks off with the Seniors Open on August 22 at the stunning Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club, and it will continue until September 13 with the Professionals Open.

Johnnie Walker is making a strong statement in its commitment to advancing the game of golf in Uganda, proudly sponsoring and executing a tournament package worth sh650m.

Andrew Kilonzo (centre) the Managing Director at UBL, Uganda Golf Union- President Jackson Were (7th right) Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kaggwa (5th left) and Absa’s Head of Global Corporates, Judith Bulamu (6th left) pose with the rest of the other partners during the launch of the Uganda Open at UBL headquarters. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

The offer signifies a substantial increment of sh100m for this year’s pack, from last year’s sh550m package, which is the brand’s biggest sponsorship contribution since becoming the title sponsors of the Uganda Open.

The Seniors Open on August 22-23 will be followed by the Ladies Open, which will run from August 28-30. The Amateur Open will follow, running from September 3-6, before culminating in the Professional Open, from September 9-13.

Speaking at the launch at UBL headquarters on Tuesday, Johnnie Walker Uganda Brand Manager Christine Kyokunda reaffirmed the brand’s passion for the game and its commitment to making the 2025 tournament a standout experience.

“As Johnnie Walker, we are proud to continue walking alongside the Uganda Golf Union to elevate this tournament to new heights. Moving the Open to Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and taking bold steps, just like the players who take to the course each year. Golf is about skill, dedication, and flavour, which is exactly what Johnnie Walker brings to this year’s tournament,” she said.

Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kaggwa (3rd right) hands over a craft to UGU president Jackson Were (centre) to signify their sponsorship to the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship, at UBL headquarters. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Tournament partners Absa, through the Head of Global Corporates, Judith Bulamu, will also offer sh300m towards the Pro-Am tournament, from which the top ten golfers (five amateurs and five professionals) get an all-expenses-paid trip to participate in next year’s Magical Kenya Open. “We anticipate a great turnout at this year’s tournament and look forward to witnessing more inspiring stories unfold on the greens and beyond,” Bulamu said.

Andrew Kilonzo, the Managing Director at UBL, emphasised the brand’s vision of turning the Open into a top-tier lifestyle and sporting spectacle. He promised a vibrant and flavorful experience, both on and off the course, with Johnnie Walker’s signature touch extending into the much-anticipated Hospitality Village.

“We’re not just sponsoring a golf tournament; we’re curating an experience. From bold serves to immersive whisky lounges and electric entertainment, this year’s edition promises to be a celebration of progress, community, and excellence. We’re excited to create moments that live long after the final putt drops for players, golf enthusiasts, and everyone who walks with Johnnie Walker.”

Uganda Golf Union president Jackson Were expressed optimism about the experience that will come with the tournament happening in Lugazi. Were applauded UBL, and Johnnie Walker in particular, for the continued investment in golf.

“The Uganda Open is the biggest tournament on our calendar, and Johnnie Walker has been instrumental in elevating its profile over the years. Hosting the 2025 edition at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club not only introduces a fresh playing experience but also reflects our goal to grow the game across the country. We are grateful to all our other sponsors and partners for making this year’s open possible.” Were stated.

Grace Namutebi, the Aquafina brand manager, said Aquafina is proud to be the official hydration partner of the event while Juliana Kaggwa, the Uganda Tourism Board CEO, highlighted the importance of taking golf to new hubs, as it gives Ugandans the opportunity to explore the country. She noted that the board has partnered with various tourism agencies in the east to offer golfers a unique experience, either kicking off the championship with a tour of Eastern Uganda or wrapping it up with one.

Preparations are already underway in Lugazi, with the Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club team led by the club captain N. J Paul working tirelessly to ensure the course is in pristine condition to host top local and regional talent. The tournament is expected to attract leading golfers from across East Africa, Southern Africa, West Africa, Europe, and from other parts of the world.

The Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open has evolved into more than just a golf tournament; it is now a celebration of culture, lifestyle, and progress, attracting not only elite golfers but also fans of premium experiences, whisky, and entertainment.

This year’s tournament is supported by partners including Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, and MTN MOMO.