Kasango claims playoff thriller as Tumwine, Okullo shine at 2026 Absa Chairman's Bell

The 2026 Absa Chairman's Bell Golf Tournament concluded on Saturday, bringing a thrilling week of elite competition and camaraderie to the Uganda Golf Club (UGC) in Kitante.

The event, which saw over sh28 million awarded across various categories, wrapped up with a lively 19th-hole awards ceremony that honored standout performances in four competitive divisions.

 The tournament’s climax was preceded by a dramatic professional event on Friday, where Grace Kasango and Ronald Rugumayo finished tied at 10-under 278 after 72 holes. Kasango ultimately seized the lion’s share of the sh20 million pro purse, taking home sh4 million—after edging Rugumayo in a tense three-hole playoff on holes 12, 17, and 18, clinching victory with a par on the 18th.

Saturday’s main event delivered its own share of excitement, with Elly Tumwine and Esther Okullo claiming overall top honors after both carded 41 points, winning on count-back against Hillary Rutaroh and Harriet Kitaka. The men’s Group A podium featured Charles Mubiru (40pts), Michael Kijjambu (37), and Rodney Turyatemba, while Group B saw Claver Serumaga (40), David Batanda (40), and Hillary Ndugutse (38) shine. 

Rutaroh led Group C with 41 points, ahead of Hannington Mulumba and Spencer Sabiiti. In the ladies’ categories, Harriet Kitaka’s 41 points topped Group A, followed by Aidah Khamis (39) and Ruth Akello (36), while Group B’s best were Esther Gonza (39), Hasifah Karungi (37), and Shamilah Kagoya (34).

The seniors’ category was led by Juma Mebs (39), with Kaka Matama (38), Katy Kabenge (34), and Jeninah Nasimolo (32) rounding out the top finishers, while juniors Lucas Kimara (36pts) and Abel Okuna (48pts) impressed.

This year’s edition introduced a groundbreaking caddies’ tournament, which saw Basil Akinoi and Joweria Namanda emerge victorious in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively, each pocketing sh350,000.

Runners-up Dennis Kabalira and Liz Kansiime took home sh200,000 each, with additional cash prizes awarded to net-category finishers Carol Amulen, Annitah Amapaire, Saleh Mbusa, and Steven Wanock. 

The sh185 million title sponsorship from Absa Bank Uganda underpinned the entire event, and at the awards ceremony, Managing Director David Wandera highlighted the significance of the caddies’ inclusion, stating, "Eight years in, this tournament keeps proving why it is worth investing in. What stood out for me this year was the Caddies Tournament. Giving our local caddies a professional competitive stage of their own is an initiative we are genuinely proud to have backed, and we fully intend to scale it further. We are honoured to be a part of these stories alongside the UGC."

Beyond the leaderboards, the tournament marked a historic transition for UGC, as the ceremonial ringing of the bell passed from the club captain to the club chairman, a symbolic evolution of one of the event’s most cherished traditions. 

UGC chairman Paul Nuwagaba reflected on the partnership, saying, "This tournament remains a celebration of tradition, leadership, and the enduring spirit of our club. We are proud to partner with Absa, whose continued support enables us to grow the game, nurture talent, and create inclusive opportunities for all who are passionate about golf." Anchored in Absa’s brand promise—"Your Story Matters"—the tournament continues to serve as a powerful platform for community cohesion, economic empowerment, and grassroots golf development across Uganda, reinforcing sports as a vehicle for lasting social impact.