Five former winners back to seek Johnnie Walker Uganda Professional Golf Open glory

Chinhoi is back seeking a third title. FILE PHOTO VIA @shumbamutasa

**Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | **With five winners of the past 6 editions in action, the highly anticipated Johnnie Walker Uganda Professional Golf Open that officially teed off today at the par-72 Uganda Golf Club promises a thrilling climax.

The four-round tournament brings together a dynamic continental field. They are all competing for a slice of the action following an explosive conclusion to the preceding Amateur Open.

When you have a field that includes Jastas Madoya (Kenya), Robson Chinoi (Zimbabwe), Dismus Ndiza (Kenya), Dayne Moore (Zambia) and Celestine Nsanzuwera (Rwanda), course records are likely to fall as the battle for top honours intensifies over the next three days.

Uganda’s premier golf star, Ronald Rugumayo, leads the home turf defense. He has had a flying start, racing to 5-under 32 after the first 9 of 18 holes due today.

Zambian Momentum Faces Local Heavyweights

The professional division opens under the shadow of a dominant showcase by Zambian golfers in the amateur category. Zambia’s Dominic Musonda claimed the amateur title with an impressive nine-under-par 279, followed closely by his compatriot Gilbert Chalwe at 282.

Both players will take on the professional field. They are eager to maintain their rhythm.

Female Professionals Add a Fresh Dimension

Included in the competition are five prominent female professionals. They are competing directly within the field. This adds a unique competitive layer to the traditionally male-dominated tournament. They are Judith Komugisha, Tanzanian star Angel Eaton, Evah Magala, Irene Nakalembe, Flavia Namakula and Cynthia Maurice, the Nigerian powerhouse.

A Spectacular Blend of Sports and Culture

Backed by a massive Shs 650 million sponsorship package from Johnnie Walker Uganda, the event is serving as more than just a sports tournament.

Organizers have successfully fused top-tier golf with the “Afro Exchange” lifestyle concept. This initiative has turned the Uganda Golf Club into a lively centre for regional music, high fashion, and culinary experiences.

The tournament will run through four intense rounds. It will reach its grand finale on Saturday, September 5, 2026, where the ultimate champion will claim the crown.

** Winners of Pro Open since 2006**
2006 – Deo Akope (Uganda)
2007 – Dismas Indiza (Kenya)
2008 – Dismas Indiza(Kenya)
2009 – Richard Ainley (Kenya)
2010 – Dismas Indiza (Kenya)
2011 – Dismas Indiza (Kenya)
2012 – Dismas Indiza (Kenya)
2013 – Vicent Byamukama (Uganda)
2014 – Deo Akope (Uganda)
2015 – Madalisto Muthiya (Zambia)
2016 – Joshua Seale (South Africa)
2017 – Stephen Ferriera (Portugal)
2018 – Dismas Indiza (Kenya)
2019 – Madalisto Muthiya (Zambia)
2020 – Robson Chinhoi (Zimbabwe)
2021 – Jastas Madoya (Kenya)
2022 – Robson Chinoi (Zimbabwe)
2023 – Dismus Ndiza (Kenya)

2024 – Dayne Moore (Zambia)

2025 – Celestine Nsanzuwera (Rwanda)

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Day 1 draw

TIME

GAME

PLAYER 1

PLAYER 2

PLAYER 3