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Lifetime experience for Ugandans at Absa MKO Pro-Am
Swing Easy, Hit Hard. Absa Interim MD, David Wandera (C) soon after flagging off the Ugandan golfers led by Golf Union VP, Anthony Agaba (R) for the 2025 Magical Kenya Open show off the perfect tee-off posture. PHOTO/INNOCENT NDAWULA
What you need to know:
Priceless Reward. Ugandan golfers, who starred in the Uganda Open Pro-Am, are set to rub shoulders with the world’s finest at the Absa Magical Kenya Open Pro-Am at Muthaiga Golf Club today, thanks to a fully sponsored adventure by Absa Bank Uganda.
As the countdown to the prestigious 2025 Absa Magical Kenya Open (MKO) gathers pace, Ugandan golfers are set for an unparalleled international experience.
Absa Bank Uganda has once again demonstrated its commitment to the sport by fully sponsoring 10 amateur golfers for the Pro-Am event today at the scenic Muthaiga Golf Club.
Additionally, professional golfer Willy Deus Kitata, who secured his slot through Monday’s 36-hole rigorous regional qualifier, could receive a facilitation package from the bank to aid his participation in the main DP World Tour event running from February 20 to 23. The MKO is expected to attract 144 elite players from various countries with Uganda in the mix, too.
That will be a welcome gesture from the bank to the 2014 Uganda Open champion that is self-sponsored for this event after running out of contract with MLB and Digicel last September after he participated in the DP World Tour Q-School.
If Kitata is not supported, national amateur captain Joseph Cwinya-ai, who secured a last-minute slot following Michael Alunga’s withdrawal, could be considered. This sponsorship presents a unique opportunity for Ugandan players to compete alongside some of the world's best and elevate their careers on the international stage.
Fully committed
Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony, Absa Uganda’s Interim Managing Director, David Wandera, underscored the bank’s unwavering support for Ugandan golf.
“Last year was historic for Uganda as Ronald Rugumayo became the first Ugandan to make the cut at a DP World Tour event. We are proud to have been part of that journey, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering golf talent in Uganda. This marks the seventh year of our sponsorship, bringing the total number of Ugandan players we have supported to 63,” Wandera said.
The 10 amateurs benefiting from Absa’s sponsorship include Philemon Akatuhurira, Ronald Pulle, Peace Hellen, Christopher Magezi, Apollo Segawa, Anthony Agaba, Joshua Odong, former Daily Monitor Sqoop & Features Editor Henry Herbert Ssali, Peter Kisembo, and Ernest Wasake. Their participation will not only elevate their competitive exposure but also create networking opportunities with global golf elites.
Absa Bank Uganda has committed Shs100m towards this initiative, ensuring the selected golfers have a seamless experience. Absa’s involvement in Ugandan golf dates back several years. In 2023, the bank sponsored 10 players with a Shs97m package, further solidifying its role in advancing the sport.
