Watoto Golf Tournament set for August 7

The second edition of the Watoto Golf Tournament has been launched and is set to take place from August 7–9 at the Uganda Golf Club.

Hundreds of golfers are expected to participate in the event, organized by Watoto Childcare Ministries under the theme ‘Hope on the Green’. The tournament aims to raise funds to support vulnerable mothers within Watoto Church communities by boosting their small businesses.

Uganda’s professional golfers will take center stage from August 7–9, while amateur and subsidiary players will compete on the final day, August 9. The Uganda Professional Golfers Association (UPGA) has pledged its involvement as both players and sponsors, contributing sh5 million.

At a press conference held at the Uganda Golf Club, UPGA official Abbey Bagalana confirmed the association’s participation, emphasizing golf’s role in fundraising. Watoto Church officials aim to raise at least sh350 million to support vulnerable mothers.

Watoto Church Leader Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo takes a swing during the launch of the 2025 Watoto Golf Tournament held at Uganda Golf Club, Kitante on July 28. Photo by Silvano Kibuuka

“Many athletes emerge from local communities to excel in sports,” Bagalana said. “We want to join football and basketball, which are already established in Watoto Church’s outreach programs. This aligns with our objectives, as we also have mothers within professional golf.”

Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo explained that this year’s ‘Hope on the Green’ initiative seeks to empower mothers in three of Watoto’s 17 communities—Kampala, Gulu, and Juba in South Sudan—by financing their small businesses and providing monitored training.

“For the past 30 years, Watoto has been more than a place of worship; we strive to give hope, transform lives, and heal souls,” Rwotlonyo noted. “So far, we’ve supported 7,500 mothers and 6,000 children. This year, the golf tournament’s proceeds aim to assist 1,125 mothers in boosting their incomes.”

He added, “Golf is a game of fun, friendship, and memories. This tournament goes beyond sport—it’s a commitment to restoring dignity and uplifting vulnerable women and their families.”

Several companies have stepped forward as sponsors. Uganda Development Bank has contributed sh10 million, Opportunity Bank donated sh20 million, and Uganda Airlines provided winners’ packages, including two first-class and four economy-class tickets. Other sponsors include Stanbic Bank, Uganda Golf Club, and others.

Last year’s inaugural Watoto Golf Tournament raised sh86 million, which supported Watoto’s technical school. This year’s event will follow the Stableford full handicap format.