Bagambe, Akello top the AMCHAM Golf Open at the Lake Victoria Serena course

Jordan Bagambe and Ruth Akello carded 46 and 35 points, respectively, to top the second edition of the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Golf Open played at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa course on Saturday.

Both golfers won air tickets to Europe, courtesy of Brussels Airlines. However, Bagambe was ineligible to accept the prize because he played under team Brussels, whose ground rules dont allow a 'team member' to win the overall prize in events they sponsor.

The ticket was instead awarded to Group B winner Benon Kigozi, who received it from Moses Matsiko, the raffle draw winner, held to resolve the situation.

Akello who played off handicap 19 could not hide her excitement after she won her overall prize at the picturesque course on her fifth attempt.

“It is always nice to win, I didn’t see it coming so I’m really happy,” Akello said.

“I have won several accolades before but this is one of the biggest. I won a RwandAir ticket last year but this is my first overall win at the Lake Victoria Serena and so it is special and it means a lot to me,” Akello, an MTN employee and a member of the Uganda Golf Club added.

“My golf has been down but today was one of those days that it came through for me. I hardly scratched any hole and so that was good. I had a good round with a lot of pars and one birdie on hole-14. I would like to thank MTN who is my main sponsor; all these wins are coming because of them,” Akello stated.

A junior’s competition was incorporated in the annual event with Gerry Musial and Ariana Bholim winning the boys and girls’ 15-18 years category while Banza Matsiko and Harrshitha Loganathan topped the 11-14 years category after rounds of 82 and 87 gross.

Nehemiah Matsiko (38gross) and Elizabeth Mwagale (36) topped the 10&Under category played over 9 holes. Varad Godse (39) and Buka Humura (45) as well as Jenny Arianna (37) and Hannah Matsiko (39) were the first and second runners up in both categories respectively in the event played under the theme: “Building Young Golfers in Our Community,”.

“Golf, as many of us know, is more than just a sport—it’s a discipline that teaches patience, integrity, focus, and respect. These are the very values that build character not only in players but in the future leaders of our society,” AMCHAM president Sarah Arapta said.

She noted that at AMCHAM they believe in partnerships that create lasting impact and that one of the most meaningful investments they can make is in our young people.

“By opening up opportunities for them to access, learn, and enjoy golf, we are nurturing a generation that can benefit from the life lessons this game teaches—perseverance, fairness, and the pursuit of excellence. Our goal is simple: to ensure that golf does not remain an elite sport, but becomes a platform for inclusion, mentorship, and personal growth,” Arapta stated.

“As we look ahead, through collaborations with schools, golf academies, and community initiatives, we hope to provide young golfers—especially those from underserved backgrounds—with access to training, equipment, and mentorship from seasoned players.”

She thanked the co-sponsors, partners, and members whose generosity and participation made the day possible, noting that their support to youth golf programs will inspire and empower the next generation of golfers.

“To the golfers who took to the course today—thank you for bringing your energy, sportsmanship, and heart to the game.” 

Overall winners

Men: Jordan Bagambe 46pts

Ladies: Ruth Akello 35

Group A

Joshua Ssenabulya 34c/b

Albert Gitta 34c/b

Isaac Mariera 34

Group B

Benon Kigozi 45pts

William Mpungu 41

Nelson Musinguzi 38

Group C

Howard Wodomall 42

Maxie Muwonge 41

Phillip Mutebi 40

Group A-Ladies

Bridget Nakamoga 33

Martha Babirye 31

Group B

Mercy Mwongeli 33

Maria Odido 28

Nancy Nsubuga 21