Mercy Nyachama and Peace Kabasweka finished tied at the top after the opening round of the MTN Entebbe Ladies Open 2026, each carding 75 at Entebbe Club on Thursday.
The pair sit at four over par in the Gross Amateur Ladies stroke play event, holding a one shot advantage over a chasing group of three at five over.
Nyachama’s round carried added weight. The Kenyan revealed she received news of her mother’s passing shortly before tee off but chose to compete.
“The greens were abit slow, but am happy with my results today. Though it’s been a sad day since recieving the sad news about my mum, I’d like to focus on the game and finish what I started.”
Her 75 was matched by Kabasweka, the 2024 Entebbe Ladies Open champion, who kept herself firmly in contention as she looks to reclaim the title.
Three players are tied for third on 76. Uganda’s Martha Babirye, Tanzania’s Neema Olomi and Uganda’s Lillian Koowe all posted five over rounds to remain within striking distance heading into day two.
A further three way tie sits at ten over, with Winnie Musuya, Judith Komugisha and Tanzania’s Loveness Frank each returning 81. Joyce Kisembo is ninth on 82, while Robinah Angom and Shaminah Nerima are tied tenth at 83.
The leaderboard stretches tightly through the mid pack, with Tanzania’s Victoria Elias among those at 84, and Uganda’s Wendy Angudeyo tied 23rd after an opening 87.
Entebbe Club’s Lady Captain Maureen Okura carded 95 to sit tied 32nd.
With two rounds left in the main event, the championship remains finely balanced. Just one shot separates the leaders from the nearest challengers, setting up a decisive second round as the field battles for position in one of the strongest editions of the tournament in recent years.
