LUGAZI — The 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship swings back into action tomorrow, Thursday, August 28, with the Ladies Open at Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club. The three-day event will feature more than 100 golfers from Uganda and across the region.
The Ladies competition marks the second leg of this year’s Open, following last week’s Seniors Tournament, and is expected to deliver high drama on the greens.
Madina the one to beat
Defending champion Iddy Madina of Tanzania enters as the firm favourite after a stellar run of form. The 2024 winner has collected multiple titles this year, including the Uganda Golf Club Ladies Open in Kampala, the Zambia Ladies Open in June, and the Ghana Ladies Open in July. She will headline a strong Tanzanian contingent that also includes 2018 champion Neema Olomi and seasoned contender Hawa Wanyeche.
Uganda’s best hope lies in Martha Babirye, who finished third at the UGC Ladies Open earlier this month and recently won the Pearl of Africa Series on the Lugazi Hills course. Babirye is expected to challenge Madina strongly, alongside fellow Ugandan standouts such as Judith Komugisha, Gloria Mbaguta, and Lira Ladies Open champion Meron Kyomugisha.
Peace Kabasweka, the 2023 champion, will miss out again as she continues her golfing journey in the United States, where she recently competed in the 95th LNGA Amateur Championship in Washington State.
Celebrating women’s golf
Johnnie Walker Brand Manager Christine Kyokunda praised the Ladies Open as a vital platform for elevating women’s golf. “Every player brings fresh energy and confidence to the championship, showing that golf is a game for everyone,” she said.
The 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship is powered by sponsors including Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, NBS Sport, and MTN MoMo.