Can Babirye match to fourth Uganda Open Ladies Golf title?

Martha Babirye, a three-time Uganda Ladies Golf Open champion, aims to reclaim her crown as the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship begins Thursday at Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club.

Babirye, who won in 2019, 2020, and 2022, faces a strong lineup this year, including fellow Ugandans such as perennial campaigners Meron Kyomugisha, Judith Komugisha, Julia Nampeewo, Loyce Bako, and Gloria Mbaguta, as well as defending champion Tanzanian Iddy Madina Hussein.

Last year’s champion, Madina, returns to defend her title, joined by compatriots Vicky Elias, Yasim Challi, Rachael Mushi, Khadija Lusakale and Neema Olomi, who previously won in Entebbe in 2018.

Other notable foreign competitors this year include Kenyan Asley Awor and Mercy Nyachama all—still seeking her first success—and many more golfers from within and neighboring countries.

“All I can say is am ready for the event. I have been preparing well and I’m ready for whatever will come my way,” Babirye said as she went about her practice on the par-71 course on Tuesday.

With Peace Kabasweka not available for this competition having travelled to the US, the onus is on Babirye and other Ugandans to show their mettle.

Just last month, Babirye strolled to a comfortable eight-shot victory during the Pearl of Africa Golf Series on the same course and will hope once again that lady luck smiles her way against even tougher opposition.

After enduring years of heartbreak Madina finally had her hands on the title last year after she edged compatriots Hawa Wanyeche and Neema Olomi who finished second and third by two and four strokes respectively.

“I’m on a mission and I will be back to defend it,” Madina said after she won the precursor UGC Ladies Open title on August 17.

“I have heard that the course is long and hilly but that doesn’t bother me I will just keep the ball on the fairway and see what happens. I will continue with my normal practice but I’m ready to take on the competition I think the luckiest player will take it,” Madina said.

She competed with the likes of Irene Nakalembe, Flavia Namakula and Angel Eaton before over a ten-year period with no much success but after grabbing it last year She hopes to use her 23-year experience to win her second title.

Already this year, Madina has claimed the Zambia and Ghana Ladies Open titles but the Lugazi course provides a new and challenging experience for the top Tanzanian lady golfer.

Christine Kyokunda, the Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, says the Ladies Open is a vital part of the championship, shining a spotlight on the women’s game and inspiring lady golfers to keep walking.

“Each lady golfer always brings new energy and a different spirit to the Open, helping break barriers and inspiring others. She Walks the course with confidence and passion, showing that golf is for everyone,” she said.

The 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship is sponsored by Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, NBS sports, and MTN MoMo.