Overview:
In 2024, professional golfer Ronald Rugumayo made history as the first Ugandan golfer to ever make the cut at a DP World Tour event, after he sank a decisive birdie on the 18th hole at the Magical Kenya Open.
Uganda’s leading professional golfer, Ronald Rugumayo, has a bold rollercoaster of a journey to document and proudly speak aloud.
Rugumayo’s humble inauguration into the golf game stems from the time he played golf with an avocado seed as an improvised ball and then cassava sticks as clubs. What a journey!
To date, Rugumayo is undoubtedly East Africa’s top professional golfer and now a proud member of the prestigious Sunshine Tour, based in South Africa.
He was officially unveiled as the newest Walker (influencer) by global whisky brand – Johnnie Walker, just days before the official tee off of the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open Championship, slated for this Friday, August 22, at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club with the Seniors Open.
Background
Rugumayo’s journey is one of resilience and remarkable progress. Born in Kabarole District, Western Uganda, he first fell in love with the game at his home course in Tooro.
Determined to pursue golf, he moved to Kampala, where he began working as a caddie, while quietly sharpening his craft.
His persistence soon paid off. Over the years, he has risen from those humble beginnings to become Uganda’s trailblazer on the international stage, competing in the Sunshine Tour in South Africa.
In 2024, he made history as the first Ugandan golfer to ever make the cut at a DP World Tour event, after he sank a decisive birdie on the 18th hole at the Magical Kenya Open.
Mayo, as he is popularly known amongst his peers, also became the first Ugandan to record a hole-in-one at the Magical Kenya Open, cementing his place in the history books, as well as inspiring countless young golfers across the region.
Speaking at the unveiling, Christine Kyokunda, the Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker, explained why the brand chose to partner with Rugumayo.
We are happy to partner with Rugumayo because he embodies our philosophy of progress. Against all odds, he has kept walking, taking bold steps, regardless of life’s challenges. Stories like his need to be told because they speak directly to the spirit of progress, and that is exactly why this partnership is so important to us.
Christine Kyokunda, Johnnie Walker Brand manager
Rugumayo expressed deep excitement about the new chapter.
Partnering with one of the world’s most iconic brands is a dream come true. I am incredibly excited because this speaks directly to my journey, from my humble beginnings in Tooro to becoming a caddie in Kampala, and now competing on the Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour. Being recognized by a brand like Johnnie Walker affirms that progress is possible, and that bold dreams can truly walk with you.
Ronald Rugumayo, Professional Golfer
The unveiling not only marks a new chapter in Rugumayo’s inspiring journey but also sets the perfect stage for the highly anticipated 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open Championship, which tees off at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club on Friday.
As he prepares to tee off against some of the continent’s finest golfers, Rugumayo now steps onto the fairway carrying not just the hopes of Ugandan golf but also the spirit of progress that Johnnie Walker champions, a partnership that promises to inspire both on and off the course.
This is yet another boost to Rugumayo, who is also sponsored by MTN Uganda and Rwandair.
