Absa Injects UGX 185 Million into Chairman’s Bell as New Caddies Tournament Takes Centre Stage

Absa Bank Uganda has committed UGX 185 million towards the 2026 Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament, with this year’s edition introducing a dedicated caddies’ competition aimed at expanding opportunities for grassroots talent in Uganda’s golfing fraternity.

The new category seeks to recognise the crucial role caddies play in the game while providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and pursue professional careers.

The week-long tournament will run from July 13 to 18 at the Uganda Golf Course and is expected to attract 30 professionals, 60 gross amateurs and more than 250 amateur golfers.

A total prize kitty of UGX 28 million has been earmarked for the professional, gross amateur and caddies’ categories.

Speaking at the launch, Absa Bank Uganda Managing Director David Wandera said the introduction of the caddies’ tournament demonstrates the bank’s commitment to supporting every level of the sport.

“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,” Wandera said.

Absa Bank MD David Wadera

He added that Absa’s eight-year partnership with the Chairman’s Bell reflects the bank’s long-term commitment to growing Uganda’s golfing ecosystem.

Chair of the Chairman’s Bell Club Paul Nuwagaba, , said the tournament has evolved beyond competition into an event that celebrates the club’s heritage while creating opportunities for more people to participate in the sport.

“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,” Nuwagaba said.

Nuwagaba with Wadera at the press conference at Uganda Golf Course

The Chairman’s Bell, formerly known as the Captain’s Bell, marks the ceremonial handover of leadership from the outgoing Club Captain to the incoming Chairman and has grown into one of Uganda’s premier golfing events.