Entebbe's Mutebi lands sh22m sponsorship ahead of the Uganda Pro’s Open

Brazilian footballer Anderson Luís de Souza aka Deco who later acquired Portuguese citizenship is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

He primarily played as a midfielder and inspired many during his playing days. Among the players, he inspired then was teenager Herman Mutebi who added the moniker ‘Deco’ to his name as he played football in Old Kampala.

But Herman ‘Deco’ Mutebi would soon be introduced to golf in 2009 in Entebbe. Like most golfers, he began as a caddie mostly caddying for one-time Uganda Open champion Willy Deus Kitata, before seriously taking on the game and turning pro four years ago.

Aviator Africa Managing Editor Vincent Mupenzi (right) addresses the press flanked by Associate Editor Daniel Bakalangudde (left) and Herman Mutebi. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

As an amateur, his best positions during the Uganda Open were 8th and a strong third-place finish in 2019 after carding 290 gross (71,71,73, 75). But he has never ‘made the cut’ since turning pro four years ago.

But this year presents a big opportunity for him on his home course after he landed a sh22m sponsorship ahead of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Professionals Open, September 4-7.

Aviator Africa Magazine and sister company NuMax Cinemas unveiled the sponsorship at the Victoria Mall in Entebbe yesterday to Mutebi, 25, who is eager to make the much-treasured cut and impress his new sponsors.

Aviator Africa Managing Editor Vincent Mupenzi (right) and Associate Editor Daniel Bakalangudde (center) present a sh22m dummy cheque to Herman Mutebi. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

The financial support unveiled by Aviator Africa Managing Editor Vincent Mupenzi and Associate Editor Daniel Bakalangudde offers support to cover various expenses including apparel and equipment, green fees, accommodation and feeding, entry and caddie fees, travel expenses, and a performance bonus.

“We are thrilled to be part of Mutebi’s golfing journey which we want to elevate as he takes on new challenges in his golfing career,” Mupenzi said.

“He is a promising young man and his dedication and passion for the game align perfectly with our values. Partnering with him is a fantastic opportunity to extend our commitment to the community beyond the cinematic experience that we offer,” Mupenzi stated.

Mutebi welcomed the sponsorship, saying it will go a long way in boosting his campaign.

“I’m deeply grateful for the support which allows me to focus on my game and perform to the best of my abilities,” Mutebi said.

“I have prepared for the open since June and I’m ready to work hard and make my sponsors shine,” Mutebi, currently ranked fifth among the 55 Ugandan professional golfers stated.

He is known for his excellent driving range, fairway accuracy, and his favourite short-putting. As an amateur, he was part of the national team and won the 2015 East Africa Challenge in Kigali among other victories in local events.

As a professional, he has ‘made the cut’ in 16 events out of the 25 he has competed in