Pearl of Africa Golf Series returns with bigger prize money for professionals

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‎The second edition of the Pearl of Africa (POA) Golf Series tees off next week at the par-71 Entebbe Club, with Uganda’s top amateur and professional golfers ramping up preparations for what promises to be a competitive outing.
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‎This year’s series comes with a major boost for professional golfers after organisers increased the prize kitty to Shs27 million, a significant Shs10 million increment from last year’s edition. The move is expected to heighten competition and further motivate the country’s top pros.
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‎Grace Kasango, who recently finished second at the Kilelesi Golf Series held at Uganda Golf Club in Kitante, expressed excitement ahead of the tournament. He noted that his recent form, particularly on the greens, gives him confidence heading into the event.
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‎“I can’t wait,” Kasango said. “I have been putting really well and if I can replicate what I have been doing lately, I will give myself a chance. The POA Series are timely because we need each and every event to maintain our mindsets in the competitive frame of professional golfers.”
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‎The field is expected to feature some of Uganda’s finest golfers, including Ronald Rugumayo, David Kamulindwa and Deo Akope. Rugumayo, who has been active on the Big Easy Tour, is tipped as one of the favourites heading into the competition.
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‎Launched last year at Uganda Golf Club, the POA Series aims to elevate Uganda’s professional golf ecosystem to international standards. Organisers envision the series growing into a premier platform that attracts both local and regional professionals, with steadily increasing prize money.
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‎While the professionals will battle for the top prize, elite amateurs will also compete in their own category, with a Shs5 million prize package up for grabs. Last year’s amateur winners included John Musiimenta (UGC), Michael Tumusiime (Entebbe) and Joseph Kasozi (Lugazi), while Marvin Kibirige, Herman Mutebi and Rugumayo claimed top honours in the professional ranks.
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‎POA Series founder Juliet Anena remains optimistic about the initiative’s long-term impact on the game.
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‎“One of the things we highlighted at the launch was our dream, with my partners, to establish a sustainable earning platform for pro golfers through consistent prize money, sponsorship opportunities and increased visibility,” she said. “We shall not relent until we get there.”
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‎Next week’s Entebbe leg has attracted support from Exim Bank, Uganda Golf Union, Vivo Energy, Aquafina, Home Bliss, MTN and Case Medical Services, with more partners expected to come on board.
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Organisers have also introduced a subsidiary category to allow golfers from all walks of life to participate in Saturday’s action.