The second leg of the 2025 I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series lit up the Entebbe Club on Saturday, May 31, delivering thrilling action both on the course and at the newly illuminated 18th hole fairway.
Played under the “For Better or Worse” format, the event attracted 132 golfers and marked a significant milestone with the official launch of a solar-powered lighting system on the course’s final hole.
The installation, a commitment made during the series’ first leg in March, features 22 solar-powered floodlights from tee box to green. Each unit includes a 105-watt solar panel, a 560Wh battery, and produces 21,600 lumens at a daylight-simulating color temperature of 5700K—ensuring uninterrupted play even after sunset.
To celebrate the development, a special one-shot night challenge teed off at 7:30 p.m., with 15 men and 5 women competing under the lights. Peace Hellen emerged victorious, taking home UGX 500,000 after completing the challenge in the fewest strokes.
“I am happy to share that we have delivered on our promise. You now don’t have to rush through your last hole when it gets dark,” said Robin Bairstow, CEO of I&M Bank. “Whether you’re chasing a birdie or simply soaking in the beauty of the game, we’ve ensured that your experience remains uninterrupted.”
In the day’s main event, Team Kyaayi Mukalu—comprised of Mukasa Mulema and Abbas Luyombo—secured the overall men’s title with 40 points, earning themselves RwandAir tickets and other prizes. In the ladies’ category, Team Hot Birdies & Bling, represented by Edith Wamalwa and Anne Abeja, claimed top honors with 37 points. Abeja also won the ladies’ nearest to the pin prize.
Other standout teams included Eagles & Birdies (John Paul Namoma and Jonathan Lukyamuzi) as runners-up, Bombers (Twijukye Kirarira and Richard Mucunguzi) in third, and Team Masse (Maxie Muwonge and Andrew Ssekibejja) in fourth. Among the ladies, Slice N Dice (Esther Aganyira and Florence Namara) finished as runners-up, followed by The Sexy Divas (Evelyne Atukunda and Charity Tushabomwe).
I&M Bank also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting golf beyond competition. As part of its ongoing CSR efforts, the bank awarded USD 1,500 to top Ugandan lady professional golfer Irene Nakalembe, aiding her preparations for international events in Kinshasa and Accra. This builds on last year’s initiatives, which included school fees support for caddies and women maintaining the course.
Annette Nakiyaga, I&M Bank’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, revealed plans for the next leg of the series, including a Rwanda edition scheduled for November. “This series is not just about golf; it’s about building friendships, promoting regional integration, and giving our golfers unforgettable experiences across borders,” Nakiyaga said.
The 19th hole celebration capped off the day with entertainment from comedian Patrick Idringi Salvador, live viewing of the UEFA Champions League final between PSG and Inter Milan, and a nostalgic mix of R&B and soul from DJ Global. Johnnie Walker, the event’s beverage partner, ensured an elegant flow of cocktails and premium offerings throughout the night.
The Katogo Golf Series returns on August 9 for its third leg, which will be played under the ‘Daytona’ format.
The 2025 series is sponsored by I&M Bank in partnership with Johnnie Walker, Victoria Motors, GA Insurance, RwandAir, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Kampala Serena Hotel, Fenon Events, Goldman’s Luxury, NBS Sport, Case Hospital, and Time Cop Security.
