Kampala, Uganda — Stanbic Bank Uganda has stepped up to the tee with a major boost for the Uganda National Ladies’ Golf Team, offering full logistical support as the female golfers prepare to fly the national flag at the 2025 East and Central Africa All-Africa Challenge Trophy (ECA-AACT), set for October 20–25 at the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort in Naivasha, Kenya.
The sponsorship package covers the team’s entry fees, uniforms, travel expenses, accommodation, and per diem—everything the players need to keep their focus firmly on the fairway as they chase regional glory.
Driving Women’s Golf Forward
According to Catherine Makumbi, Manager Executive Banking and Affluent Express at Stanbic Bank, this partnership is more than just another cheque presentation — it’s a reflection of the bank’s long-term drive to support women’s empowerment through sport, under its broader Women Prosperity Agenda.
“Supporting women in sport is part of how we deliver on our purpose: ‘Uganda is our home; we drive her growth.’ These ladies embody discipline, resilience, and ambition — the same values that fuel success in business and in life,” Makumbi said.
“For Stanbic, this is not just a sponsorship, it’s a swing toward equality — helping women athletes access the opportunities and exposure they deserve.”
Leading the charge for Uganda’s team is Coach Flavia Namakula, a seasoned golfer and national icon, guiding a trio of top talents: Captain Peace Kabasweka, Meron Kyomugisha, and junior representative Keisha Kagoro.
The team’s selection, based on the national order-of-merit rankings, ensures that Uganda fields its most consistent performers on the regional circuit. The tournament format will feature 54 holes of stroke play over three days, a gruelling test of skill and mental fortitude.
Rita Apell Akot, President of the Uganda Ladies Golf Union, hailed Stanbic’s backing as a “game-changer” for women’s golf.
“Stanbic’s support gives our ladies the confidence to play their best golf without worrying about what’s in their golf bags or travel wallets,” she said with a smile. “It’s partnerships like this that turn potential into performance — helping women’s golf in Uganda move from the rough to the fairway of opportunity.”
She added that the ECA-AACT, established in 2013, has become a driving force behind the growth of women’s golf in Africa, fostering competition, regional friendship, and talent development across nations including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Madagascar, and Reunion.
“This tournament isn’t just about who wins — it’s about building a stronger pipeline for women golfers and positioning Africa on the global golfing map,” Rita said.
Purpose in Play
Stanbic Bank’s involvement aligns with its commitment to creating pathways for women’s prosperity — both in business and beyond. Through initiatives like Stanbic for Her, the bank continues to back women entrepreneurs, professionals, and now, athletes, helping them achieve financial independence and national recognition.
“When women win — on the course, in business, or in life — Uganda wins,” Makumbi added. “We’re proud to stand beside these remarkable golfers as they take their shot at history.”
At the flag-off ceremony in Kampala, Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary (Technical) at the National Council of Sports, applauded the partnership, noting that strategic alliances like this strengthen the country’s sporting fabric.
“Corporate partnerships such as Stanbic’s are what keep Uganda’s sporting ambitions on course. They help our athletes prepare, compete, and inspire the next generation,” Chebet said.
With their bags packed and spirits high, Uganda’s ladies’ team is ready to take their best swing at continental success — with Stanbic Bank firmly in their corner, ensuring this journey is more than a round of golf; it’s a stride toward women’s empowerment, national pride, and prosperity.
