Overview:
A standout highlight this year is the introduction of a dedicated Caddies Tournament, an initiative aimed at recognizing and elevating the vital role caddies play in the sport.
- Event: 2026 Absa Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament
- Dates: 13th to 18th July 2026
- Categories: Caddies, Gross Amateurs, Professionals & Main Event
- Venue: Uganda Golf Club, Kampala – Kitante
- Main sponsor: Absa Bank Uganda
- Prize money kitty: Ug.Shs 28,000,000
- Total Sponsorship money: Ug.Shs 185,000,000
Absa Bank Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to the country’s golfing community with a continued title sponsorship of UGX 185 million for the 2026 Absa Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament (formerly Captain’s Bell).
It will be a grueling week of golf at the par-72 Uganda Golf Club in the heart of Kampala.
Caddies tee off on the 13th July 2026 for their day-long event that has Ug.Shs 2,000,000 prize money.
Then, the gross amateurs and professionals will join in until the 17th July before the main event on the 18th July.
The gross amateurs men will tussle for Ug.Shs 4,000,000 prize money kitty whilst the ladies have Ug.Shs 2,000,000 over 54 holes’ action.
The professional golfers’ kitty is Ug.Shs 20,000,000 that will be shared among the golfers who make the cut.
The Absa Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament holds a prestigious place on Uganda’s sporting calendar.
As a long-standing annual tradition at Uganda Golf Club, it serves as a ceremonial occasion marking the formal transition of leadership from the outgoing Club Captain to the incoming Chairman.
The 2026 edition is expected to attract 30 professional golfers, 60 gross amateurs, and over 250 amateur players, competing across various categories.
A standout highlight this year is the introduction of a dedicated Caddies Tournament, an initiative aimed at recognizing and elevating the vital role caddies play in the sport.
This new category reflects Absa’s commitment to growing golf by creating opportunities for caddies to develop their skills, gain exposure, and progress toward professional careers.
A total prize kitty of UGX 28 million has been allocated to reward top-performing competitors across the Caddies, Gross Amateur, and Professional categories.
David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda spoke to the media at the official launch held on Wednesday, 1st July 2026;
Eight years is not a small commitment, and we do not take it lightly. Our continued support of the Chairman’s Bell reflects our belief in the transformative power of sport and our dedication to investing in Uganda’s golfing ecosystem. We are proud of how far this tournament has come and excited about where it is heading.
David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda
He further emphasized the significance of the newly introduced caddies’ category:
Caddies are a cornerstone of the sport. It is important to us that they have a platform to compete, to be seen, and to be rewarded for their skills. This is something we hope to build on in the years ahead.
David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda
Absa Bank Uganda’s sponsorship is anchored in its brand promise, ‘We See
Your Story’, underscoring the bank’s commitment to supporting the ambitions and aspirations of Ugandans. Sport, particularly golf, remains a powerful platform where these stories unfold.
“Golf attracts a community of ambitious, driven individuals and through this sponsorship, we are not only reinforcing our brand; we are building meaningful relationships and enabling conversations that matter.” Wandera added.
Echoing this sentiment, Paul Nuwagaba, Chair of the Chairman’s Bell Club, highlighted the tournament’s significance and the impact of Absa’s continued partnership:
The Chairman’s Bell is more than a tournament; it is a celebration of tradition, leadership, and the enduring spirit of our club. We are proud to partner with Absa Bank Uganda, whose continued support enables us to grow the game, nurture talent, and create inclusive opportunities for all who are passionate about golf.
Paul Nuwagaba, Chair of the Chairman’s Bell Club
As the tournament continues to grow in scale and prestige, Absa Bank Uganda remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the sport of golf and supporting platforms that bring communities together.
During the week, every swing, every putt and every round will surely tell a bold story worth following.
