Copyright kawowo
The Entebbe Club played host to the finale of the 2025 NCBA Golf Series, where golfers from across Uganda competed for a final- third spot in the regional grand finale. Irene Sekabembe, the Entebbe leg winner now joins James Abiria winner fo the Jinja leg and Gabriel Amani Beau winner fo the Uganda Golf Club leg to form Uganda’s team heading to the Muthaiga Grand Finale in Nairobi, Kenya. The regional showdown will pit the trio against the finest junior golfers in East Africa, offering them a crucial stage to compete for the ultimate amateur title. Despite rain disruptions, John Basabose and Martha Babirye emerged triumphant. Basabose, playing off a handicap of 4, produced an impressive 73 gross to clinch the Overall Men’s Gross title on the challenging par-71 lakeside course. Matching his performance, Babirye also carded a 73 gross, securing victory in the Ladies’ Gross category as well as the Longest Drive award. “It’s good to be back in the winning circle once again,” Babirye said after receiving her trophy and golf bag. Now in its third season, the NCBA Golf Series has solidified its reputation as a premier platform for nurturing young golfing talent. Each leg of the tournament challenges participants’ technical skills, strategic thinking, and mental resilience, while also showcasing the rising popularity of golf in Uganda. At the Entebbe Golf Club, finalists displayed exceptional consistency and composure under pressure, earning admiration from spectators for their poise, focus, and competitive spirit. Mark Muyobo, NCBA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), reaffirmed its commitment to advancing golf development in the region by offering golfers opportunities to compete on an international stage. “Our mission is to nurture talent, provide meaningful exposure, and create clear pathways for Ugandan golfers to excel both regionally and beyond,” Muyobo said. The Muthaiga finale in Nairobi will crown the overall champion of the NCBA Golf Series, setting the standard for excellence in East African amateur golf. With legs hosted across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, the tournament has evolved into one of the region’s premier amateur competitions, fostering healthy rivalry while building enduring professional networks among emerging golfers. In a show of commitment to innovation, NCBA integrated its digital platform- Muzuri Pay, into all aspects of the tournament, from player registration to refreshments and merchandise, providing a seamless and convenient experience for both participants and spectators. Last year, Uganda hit a milestone by sending a record 18 golfers to the Nairobi finale, its largest contingent ever. Standout qualifiers, including Aggrey Mutaka, Judith Mugisha, Brian Omeda, Lillian Koowe, Anselm Olweny, and Berna Musanabera, secured their places through exceptional performances on their home courses, stressing the depth of emerging talent in the nation. Renowned for its inclusive and sustainable approach, the NCBA Golf Series has, since its inception in 2021, consistently worked to broaden access for emerging golfers. By investing in talent development, the tournament is shaping the future of golf in Uganda and across East Africa, raising both competitive excellence and a vibrant golfing culture throughout the region. Top performers: Nearest to the Pin (Ladies): Edith Wamalwa Nearest to the Pin (Men): Moses Mukibi Longest Drive (Ladies): Martha Babirye Longest Drive (Men): Micheal Tumusiime Piga Mingi: Brian Yata (36 H/C, 19 pts) Junior Winner: Ethan Namara (33 H/C, 41 pts) NCBA Guest Winner: Brian Aldomoro (28 H/C, 40 pts) NCBA Staff Winner: Francis Kiyemba (23 H/C, 35 pts) Money Ball Winners: Allan Akira, Sulaiman Kamulegeya, Patrick M. Mugisha, Esther Aganyira (42 pts) Division 3 Winner: Sreerag Sasidharan (26 H/C, 45 pts) Ladies Division 2 Winner: Esther Aganyira (29 H/C, 41 pts, C/B) Ladies Division 1 Winner: Lillian Koowe (11 H/C, 36 pts) Men Division 2 Winner: Ssuubi Kiwanuka (21 H/C, 44 pts) Men Division 1 Winner: Twinemanzi Tumubweine (12 H/C, 43 pts) Overall Gross Lady Winner: Martha Babirye (H/C 5, Gross 73) Overall Gross Men Winner: John Basabosa (H/C 4, Gross 73) Best Overall Stableford Winner: Irene Sekabembe (48 H/C, 45 pts, C/B)
