The NCBA Junior Golf Series delivered another weekend of thrilling performances at the Uganda Golf Club, showcasing a wealth of talent and setting new benchmarks for junior golf development in the country.
The event, part of a nationwide tour, successfully blended high-level skill, precision, and youthful passion, reaffirming its place as a vital platform for nurturing Uganda’s future golfing champions.
The highlight of the day came in the premier Boys 15–18 category, where Peter Mayende produced a sensational performance, firing a stellar 70 (two-under par)—the only under-par score of the entire tournament—to secure a decisive victory.
His composed round set the pace for the day, while Elvis Mugunditi claimed second place with 77, thanks to a strong showing on the opening nine holes.
Mayende’s dominance was evident from the first tee, combining precision iron play with calm course management throughout his round.
In the Boys 6 and under category, Elijah Agaba stole the show with an impressive round of 43 strokes, comfortably topping Collins Elijah Nuwagira, who finished with 60.
Agaba’s sharp short game and confident play around the greens earned him 30 valuable series points, cementing his place among Uganda’s most promising young golfers.
The Boys 10 division saw Shemaiah Nathan Kibet maintain composure to post 48 strokes and clinch the title ahead of Dominic Nkurunziza, who followed closely with 54.
Kibet’s consistency, especially on tricky greens, drew praise from Coach Les Brown.
In the Boys 13–14 category, Banza Matsiko turned in a near-par 73 to claim the crown. His mix of accuracy off the tee and confident putting reflected remarkable maturity for his age.
Alex Kasumba carded 83 to take second place after an uneven back nine but remained positive about his progress.
The girls’ categories also produced exciting displays, underscoring the rapid growth of female participation in junior golf.
In the Girls 8 and under division, Aisha Nakato impressed with a superb 46 strokes, showing excellent control and rhythm.
In the Girls 10–12 category, Elizabeth Mwagale reaffirmed her reputation as one of Uganda’s brightest prospects. Playing off a handicap of 3, she returned a net score of 39 to claim top honors.
Her calm demeanor and smooth swing continue to set her apart both locally and regionally.
Amani Kirabo, playing off 12, finished second with 46 after showing marked improvement from earlier tournaments.
In the Girls 13–14 division, Harsshitha Loganathan, with a handicap of 12, carded 79 to secure victory ahead of Jethra Ayeta Muando (handicap 30), who scored 107.
Meanwhile, Rachael Natukunda (handicap 12) produced a composed round of 79 to triumph in the Girls 15–18 category, edging Joanita Nanyombi, who finished with 88.
Tournament organizers NCBA Bank Uganda, in partnership with U.S. Kids Golf, praised the weekend’s performances as evidence of Uganda’s rising standard of junior golf.
Mark Muyobo, chief executive of NCBA Bank Uganda, said the level of competition keeps improving with every event.
He noted that there is now more confidence, better technique, and stronger mental focus among the juniors, which he called a clear sign that Uganda’s golf future is in capable hands.
The NCBA Junior Golf Series has evolved from a national competition into a regional talent pipeline, blending competitive golf with mentorship, discipline, and exposure to international standards.
The program ensures that young golfers gain the experience needed to thrive on larger stages.
This year, Uganda’s juniors have represented the country at several international tournaments, including the Big 5 Junior Championship in South Africa, the Rome Classic in Italy, and the Pearl Championships in the United States.
Among the standout performers abroad were Ariana Jenny Tumwesigye and Elizabeth Mwagale, whose stellar showings have helped raise Uganda’s profile on the world junior golf map.
According to Muyobo, these international experiences are critical in building the next generation of world-class players and giving young athletes the confidence to compete globally.
As the 2025 season nears its grand finale in the next two weeks, anticipation is high for the next chapter of the NCBA Junior Golf Series.
With new tournaments lined up for 2026, including the NCBA Invitational in Nairobi and additional international qualifiers, Uganda’s juniors are set for even greater opportunities to showcase their talent beyond national borders.
From its first tee-offs in January to its November climax, the series has become a defining platform for nurturing young talent.
It continues to inspire a generation to trade screens for swings, learning timeless values of focus, patience, and sportsmanship along the way.
Muyobo added that NCBA’s vision goes beyond banking, to making everyday banking extraordinary and making every young golfer’s dream possible.
He said that in every swing, every smile, and every sunrise round, the NCBA Junior Golf Series is shaping tomorrow’s champions.