The 2026 season of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series teed off in style at Entebbe Club on Saturday, March 14, with a vibrant 19th hole celebration that matched the excitement on the greens. The highlight of the evening came when I&M Bank Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to the series, announcing a three-year extension of its title sponsorship and unveiling plans for a cross-border leg in South Africa later this year.

Representing CEO Robin Bairstow, Chief Financial Officer Timothy Musiime revealed that the September leg will take golfers to the prestigious Sun City Golf Resort near Pilanesberg National Park in Johannesburg. This marks the third international outing for the series, following successful events in Limuru, Kenya (2024) and Kigali, Rwanda (2025).

“We are here to stay. We are committing another three years, all the way to 2029,” Musiime declared, drawing cheers from the crowd. He emphasized the bank’s dedication to enhancing the golfing experience, noting that I&M Bank had also supported Entebbe Club with new green mowers to keep the course in top condition.

The season opener attracted 196 golfers competing under the innovative “It’s Up To Me” format, which allowed one designated player in each group to determine the second shot positions for all. Moses Ssebugawo and Charity Atuhaire emerged overall winners in the men’s and ladies’ categories, respectively, each earning RwandAir tickets and hampers from Victoria Motors. Other standout performances included Edgar Muzahura (men’s gross winner with 67), Peace Kabasweka (ladies’ gross winner with 70), and seasoned amateur Morris Ongwech, who thrilled spectators with a hole-in-one on the 16th.

Beyond the competition, the Caribbean-themed after-party kept spirits high. Hosted by comedian Patrick “Salvador” Idringi and headlined by dancehall star A Pass, the evening featured Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve cocktails and premium offerings, ensuring the celebration matched the scale of the announcement.

Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, hailed the event as a strong start to the season. “Together with our partners, we’re excited about the progress we’ve made. But as we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering an even bigger and more exciting 2026 Katogo Golf Series,” she said.

The series continues on May 30 with its second leg, supported by partners including Johnnie Walker, Victoria Motors, GA Insurance, RwandAir, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Kampala Serena Hotel, Fenon Events, Goldman’s Luxury, NBS Sport, Case Hospital, and Time Cop Security.