Rukundo kicks off second term with 7th Absa Captain’s Bell Golf Tournament

Uganda Golf Club captain Charles Paul Rukundo will begin his second term by hosting over 240 players at the 7th edition of the Absa Captain’s Bell Golf Tournament at Kitante, May 13-17.

On being re-elected, Rukundo said, “We are thrilled because the members have entrusted us with the mandate of running the Uganda Golf Club, and I’m particularly very grateful to them because we have come through unopposed,” Rukundo said.

“We aim to have many developments around the clubhouse and around the golf course. We need to transform it into a championship course, and we need to attract the bigger tournaments like the DP World Tour events, and we are going to ensure the long-term goals are achieved.

“We need to lay the foundation that will allow us to host international events, and all the work that we shall be doing will be the foundation to ensure we host a DP Tour event within this country, and we are hopeful that this will happen, and all the work we shall be doing this year, we have that vision in mind.

He said they also hope to host bigger and better tournaments as well as introduce automation and smart systems at the club as well as new machinery that speaks to the caliber of the club and where they position the club within the near future.

The Captains Bell will begin with the professional golfers competing in a 72-hole tournament for a share of 20 million shillings in prize money, taking place from May 13 to 16. They will be joined by elite amateur golfers, who will also be vying for prizes of sh6m for the top six men and sh2m for the top four women over 54 holes.

Absa Bank’s Chief Financial Officer Michael Segwaya unveiled a sh179m sponsorship for the annual championship that will have other amateurs compete in the main event on May 17.

“Golf has a special way of bringing people together, building friendships, and challenging us to be our best selves on and off the course. At Absa, we believe in the power of sport to inspire and connect communities. We are proud to continue playing a role in writing the story of golf in Uganda,” Segwaya said.

“Beyond the sponsorship, we are celebrating what golf brings us: discipline, integrity, resilience, and strategic thinking—values we cherish as a bank.

“We are also looking forward to forging lasting friendships and ensuring that we drive value off and on the course. We remain committed to nurturing talent,” Segwaya stated.

“To all the golfers taking to the course, swing easy, play hard, and savour every shot, because it is all about the memories and connections, because that is what matters.

Beyond this tournament, Absa has consistently invested in growing the sport, notably providing top Ugandan golfers with opportunities to participate in international competitions such as the prestigious European Tour Magical Kenya Golf Open over the past four years.

Rukundo, whose entire executive was returned unopposed, promised a wonderful competition for all the golfers. He will serve the second term alongside Jerry Owachi, the new vice-captain; Emmanuel Wamimbi as honorary secretary; and treasurer Walter Tukahirwa. Derrick Muhumuza (competitions secretary) and Mark Namanya who has been

“We are grateful for the continued support from our longtime partner, Absa Bank Uganda. Their contribution is essential to ensuring the successful hosting of this tournament and for nurturing golf talent in Uganda.” Rukondo stated.