Ugandan amateurs cannot wait to experience Magical Kenya Open

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Five Ugandan amateur golfers who qualified for the prestigious Magical Kenya Open through the Uganda Open-Absa Pro-Am tournament last year are excited about the upcoming experience at Muthaiga Golf Club.

The golfers—Philemon Akatuhurira, Peace Hellen, Christopher Magezi, Apollo Segawa, and Anthony Agaba—will join international golf professionals for the Pro-Am event that precedes the DP World Tour Magical Kenya Open.

The players were flagged off for the all-expenses-paid event, set for February 19, by Absa Bank's acting managing director, David Wandera, who encouraged them to embrace the learning opportunity.

“It is a proud moment for us to see Ugandans competing on the international stage, which aligns with our values of nurturing talent in the sport of golf,” Wandera said.

“This marks the fifth year we are sending Ugandans to this annual event. We are immensely proud to see them showcase their talent, be part of this incredible experience, and inspire confidence in other Ugandans to participate.”

Absa Bank Acting Managing Director, David Wandera (left), flags off Peace Hellen, Apollo Segawa, Anthony Agaba Christopher Magezi, and Philemon Akatuhurira,(right) to the DP World Tour Magical Kenya Open at Absa head office, February 17, 2025. (Photo by Michael Nsubuga)

He added, “This is not just a learning experience—it’s a wonderful, life-changing opportunity. You’ll feel like part of the global golf community. It’s time to interact, build networks, and experience golf at the world stage. We’re proud to support you in this initiative."

Wandera further emphasised that it is part of Absa’s vision of “empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together, one story at a time,” wishing the players the best as they represent Uganda.

Agaba, who also serves as the vice president of the Uganda Golf Union, expressed gratitude towards Absa for giving Ugandans the chance to compete internationally.

“We’ve had a long-standing partnership with Absa, and we’re grateful for their continued support. The growth of the game in Uganda is a testament to their dedication, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made together,” Agaba said.

In addition to the five players, several other Ugandan amateurs and fans will attend the event to cheer on the Ugandan contingent, including the country’s top amateur golfer, Joseph Cwinyaai, who will compete in the main event.

Absa Bank Uganda has committed to covering all travel and accommodation costs for the selected amateur golfers. The bank has invested a total of sh100m towards the 2025 Magical Kenya Open experience, which includes covering flights, accommodation, meals, transport, tournament entry fees, caddy fees, and branded golf merchandise for the players.