Uganda Breweries Limited, through its flagship Scotch whisky brand- Johnnie Walker, has officially launched the 2025 edition of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open Championship, set to take place at the prestigious Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club for the very first time.
The announcement was made at a press conference held this morning at the company’s head offices in Portbell Luzira, where sponsors, Uganda Golf Union officials, media, and partners gathered to unveil what promises to be the most exciting edition of the Open yet.
As part of its continued investment in elevating the game of golf in Uganda, Johnnie Walker has committed a sponsorship and execution package totalling Shs650M (Six hundred and fifty million Shillings) towards this year’s tournament.
The announcement signifies a substantial increment of Shs 100m for this year’s sponsorship package, from last year’s Shs 550M package. This is the brand’s biggest sponsorship contribution since becoming the title sponsors of the Uganda Open.
This year’s Open Championship will kick off with the Seniors Open, which will tee off on August 22- 23. This will be followed by the Ladies Open, which will run from August 28th- 30th. The Amateur Open will follow, running from September 3rd- 6th, before culminating in the Professional Open, from September 9th to 13th.
Speaking at the launch, Johnnie Walker Uganda Brand Manager, Christine Kyokunda, reaffirmed the brand’s passion for the game and its commitment to making the 2025 tournament a standout experience.
“As Johnnie Walker, we are proud to continue walking alongside the Uganda Golf Union to elevate this tournament to new heights. Moving the Open to Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and taking bold steps, just like the players who take to the course each year. Golf is about skill, dedication and flavour, which is exactly what Johnnie Walker brings to this year’s tournament,” she said.
Andrew Kilonzo, the Managing Director at UBL, emphasised the brand’s vision of turning the Open into a top-tier lifestyle and sporting spectacle.
He promised a vibrant and flavorful experience, both on and off the course, with Johnnie Walker’s signature touch extending into the much-anticipated Hospitality Village.
“We’re not just sponsoring a golf tournament; we’re curating an experience. From bold serves to immersive whisky lounges and electric entertainment, this year’s edition promises to be a celebration of progress, community, and excellence. We’re excited to create moments that live long after the final putt drops for players, golf enthusiasts, and everyone who walks with Johnnie Walker.”
Uganda Golf Union- President Jackson Were expressed optimism about the experience that will come with the Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open 2025, happening at the prestigious Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club, about the Open. Dr Were applauded UBL, and Johnnie Walker in particular, for the continued investment in golf.
“The Uganda Open is the biggest tournament on our calendar, and Johnnie Walker has been instrumental in elevating its profile over the years. Hosting the 2025 edition at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club not only introduces a fresh playing experience but also reflects our goal to grow the game across the country. We are grateful to all our other sponsors and partners for making this year’s open possible.”
Preparations are already underway in Lugazi, with the Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club team working tirelessly to ensure the course is in pristine condition to host top local and regional talent. The tournament is expected to attract leading golfers from across East Africa, Southern Africa, West Africa, Europe and other parts of the world.
The Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open has evolved into more than just a golf tournament; it is now a celebration of culture, lifestyle, and progress, attracting not only elite golfers but also fans of premium experiences, whisky, and entertainment.
This year’s tournament is supported by partners including, Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, NBS sports, and MTN MOMO.
As 7-time sponsors of the Uganda Golf Open, Absa’s Head of Global Corporates, Judith Bulamu, noted that this goes beyond the 300 million sponsorship package.
“The ultimate prize is for the top 10 golfers (five amateurs and five professionals) in the Pro-Am leg who get an all-expenses-paid trip to participate in next year’s Magical Kenya Open,” Judith said
“We anticipate a great turnout at this year’s tournament and look forward to witnessing more inspiring stories unfold on the greens and beyond.”
Grace Namutebi, the Aquafina Brand Manager, said Aquafina is proud to be the official hydration partner of the Uganda Golf Open. “Staying hydrated is key to great performance, and we’ll be keeping every golfer refreshed on the course. See you in Lugazi!”
Juliana Kaggwa, the Uganda Tourism Board CEO, highlighted the importance of taking golf to new hubs, as it gives Ugandans the opportunity to explore the country. She noted that the board has partnered with various tourism agencies in the east to offer golfers a unique experience, either kicking off the championship with a tour of Eastern Uganda or wrapping it up with one.
Registration is now open via the Uganda Golf Union website: www.golf-uganda.com
