Ronald Rugumayo finally got his moment. After months of waiting and a near miss earlier this year, the South Africa-based Ugandan golfer captured his maiden Pearl of Africa (POA) Series title on Sunday at the challenging Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club.
Having fallen to Marvin Max Kibirige in a tense playoff at Uganda Golf Club (UGC) in February, Rugumayo turned the tables this time with a composed and resilient performance. His win, however, didn’t come easy.
At the par-5 7th hole, Rugumayo saw his lead evaporate when he carded a costly double bogey, while Kibirige secured a birdie. The three-stroke swing reignited the competition and opened a window of opportunity for chasing contenders like Rodell Gaita Taddeo and Grace Kasango.
But Rugumayo, known for his calm demeanor under pressure, rebounded brilliantly. Despite his disappointment at stumbling on a hole typically seen as a scoring opportunity, he regathered himself. The defining moment came on the 15th hole, where he sank a crucial birdie that ultimately secured his path to victory.
In addition to the trophy, Rugumayo walked away with UGX 3.8 million, the largest share of the UGX 20 million prize pool reserved for professionals.
Beyond the financial reward, the win gives Rugumayo valuable insight ahead of the Uganda Open in September, which will be held on the same undulating Lugazi course—a layout that demands precision and mental toughness due to its hills and narrow margins.
Rugumayo’s triumph means the debut season of the Pearl of Africa Series ends with a trio of different champions in the professional category—joining Herman Deco Mutebi (Entebbe) and Marvin Kibirige (UGC). Similarly, in the amateur ranks, Joseph Kasozi’s success at Lugazi completes a clean sweep alongside wins by John Musiimenta (UGC) and Michael Tumusiime (Entebbe).
With the inaugural season now concluded, organizers confirmed plans to expand the series in 2026 by adding a fourth course and introducing an official Order of Merit to heighten competitiveness.
Uganda Golf Union president Dr. Jackson Were praised the Pearl of Africa Series management and promised continued support to grow the tournament in the years ahead. He also lauded Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club for preparing a course that truly tested the country’s finest golfers and previewed the challenges ahead at the Uganda Open.
The Pearl of Africa Series was made possible with support from Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda National Oil Company, MTN Uganda, Crown Beverages, Mighty Rides, IOTEQ, Vivo Energy, NBS Sport, and Uganda Golf Union.
