AmCham Uganda launches 2026 Golf Open with record prizes and junior focus

The third American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Uganda Golf Open was officially launched on Tuesday at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Course and Spa, with organizers promising bigger rewards and a stronger emphasis on youth development.

This year’s tournament, scheduled for Saturday, July 4, will coincide with "Freedom 250," the official U.S. initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence.

Major prizes include a 2026 JMC Vigus double-cab pickup worth sh145 million for a hole-in-one, sponsored by Motorcare, and two air tickets from Qatar Airways. Additional prizes include two-night stays at Entikko Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park for top golfers.

AmCham Uganda General Manager Eve Zalwango emphasized that the theme "Freedom 250" promotes innovation and excellence, reflecting the chamber’s mission to support American businesses in Uganda while strengthening commercial ties between the two nations.

The different sponsors' representatives pose with the General Manager at AmCham Uganda, Eve Zalwango (center-back) after the launch of the third edition event at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, June 30, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

"The role that we play does not only have to be commercial, but we also want to participate in sports... we chose golf and involving young people," she said, noting that Freedom 250 serves as both a reflection on history and a launchpad for the next 250 years of U.S.-Uganda partnership.

Junior golf development remains a key pillar of the event. Zalwango confirmed that the tournament will continue hosting a dedicated kids' competition to grow the sport among youth. Paul Charles Rukundo, vice president of the Uganda Golf Union and head of golf development, revealed ambitious plans to introduce golf to 180 schools and communities across 112 districts, targeting underprivileged and underserved areas. "We would like to take this game to that kid that has never held a golf club or never seen a golf ball," he stated, adding that several junior golfers from rural areas will be sponsored to participate.

Sponsors backing the event include Capital One Group, Entikko Safari Lodge, Dream Records, MTN MoMo, wtw, Sheraton Hotel, Stanbic, Rim Uganda, Ruby Hospital, Uganda Golf Union, and Kampala Golf Centre. Representatives present included Theo Van Rooyen, Felix Aupal, Faridah Wamala, Karen Kugonza, Paul Charles Rukundo, Esther Gloria Bagonza, Patrick Sumata, and Raymond Kasule.

Theodor Van Rooyen, Golf Director at Lake Victoria Serena, praised the partnership with AmCham, noting the event’s strong potential for corporate engagement and junior golf support, while also promising a lively celebration of America’s independence. Qatar Airways Senior Account Manager Wamala confirmed that winners will receive flights to Doha.

The AmCham Uganda Golf Open continues to serve as a key platform for fostering trade, investment, and networking between the U.S. and Uganda, blending commerce with sport and community development.