Namulonge, Wakiso — Equity Bank Uganda, in partnership with the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), has officially launched the 5th Edition of the Equity-NARO Golf Open 2025. The three-day tournament will run from November 27–29 at the historic Mary Louise Simkins Memorial Golf Club in Namulonge.
This year’s tournament will be held under the theme “17 Years of Transforming Lives in Uganda,” celebrating Equity Bank’s 17-year journey of impact, innovation, and growth in Uganda’s financial sector.
Located within the country’s largest agricultural research centre, the 9-hole Mary Louise Simkins course has become a cradle of golf talent in Uganda. Over the years, it has produced some of the country’s finest golfers and continues to serve as a critical training ground for emerging players.
Speaking during the launch ceremony, Equity Bank Uganda Executive Director Claver Serumaga reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to sports development and community empowerment.
“This year’s Equity NARO Open is more than a tournament; it is a celebration of legacy, community, and the power of nurturing talent. As we mark 17 years of serving Ugandans with transformational financial solutions, we are proud to stand with Namulonge Golf Club, a place that has shaped and inspired the country’s golfing talent for generations,” Serumaga said.
“To commemorate this special anniversary, the 17th hole of the tournament will be symbolically marked as the Equity 17th Hole, representing every step of progress we have made together with our customers, partners, and communities.”
The tournament is expected to attract seasoned golfers, corporate leaders, amateur players, customers, and community partners. A highlight of this year’s event will be the fully branded 17th hole, designed to reflect the Bank’s milestone year.
Equity Bank and NARO’s partnership has been central to the tournament’s growth. What began as a stakeholder engagement activity has evolved into one of the region’s most respected golf championships. The Namulonge course has, in recent months, hosted major events including the Namulonge Ladies Open (May 2025) and the K&K Invitational Pro-Am (July 2025)—both supported by Equity Bank.
This year’s competition is expected to be highly competitive, with star golfer Meron Kyomugisha—winner of the 2022 Namulonge edition and last weekend’s 27th Kinyara Golf Open—among the favourites for the trophy. Professional golfers from Zimbabwe have also confirmed participation, signalling the tournament’s expanding regional appeal.
Lady Captain of the Mary Louise Simkins Memorial Golf Club, Sheila Aine, applauded Equity Bank for its consistent support. “This is truly an honour for our club. The Equity Namulonge Golf Open gives us an opportunity to showcase our beautiful course and to continue building and supporting women’s golf in Uganda. We are excited for this edition and deeply appreciate Equity Bank and our partners,” Aine said.
As the countdown to tee-off begins, organisers say golfers and spectators can expect a well-organised event, enhanced course experience, community engagement activities, and vibrant celebrations in honour of Equity Bank’s 17-year journey. The 5th Edition of the Equity NARO Golf Open promises to be the biggest yet—bringing together competition, community, and a celebration of the transformative power of partnership.