Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1725 EAT on Tuesday 3 February 2026

The Royal Johannesburg Golf Course will be buzzing with activity this week as Africa’s finest golfers gather for the highly anticipated Africa Amateur Championship, running from February 4-7. Uganda will be represented by a talented group of nine golfers, all eager to compete in the prestigious tournament.

In a display of the tournament’s high regard, the R&A will cover all expenses for the Ugandan golfers, including flights, accommodation, and meals throughout their stay in Johannesburg.

Uganda’s men’s team will feature Joseph Cwinya-ai, Joseph Reagan Akena, Joseph Kasozi, and Titus Okwong, along with Abdallah Kakooza, Elton Thembo, and Lawrence Walakira. The Uganda Golf Union (UGU) has also facilitated the visa process for all team members and arranged logistical support for their practice rounds at various courses in preparation for the event.

Leading Uganda’s women’s team at the Africa Amateur Championship will be Peace Kabasweka, joined by Meron Kyomugisha. Their selection is based on their World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) as of October 29, 2025.

The men’s championship will feature 72 golfers competing in a four-day stroke play event, with a cut after 36 holes. Meanwhile, the women’s field will consist of 21 competitors in a 54-hole contest, with no cut. A victory for either Kabasweka or Kyomugisha would earn them exemptions for the 2026 Johannesburg Ladies Open.

The men’s champion will receive invitations to prestigious events such as the Investec South African Open Championship, the Waterfall City Tournament of Champions, and the 2026 Alfred Dunhill Championship.
One of the unique aspects of the Africa Amateur Championship is that players must caddy for themselves, adding an extra layer of physical and mental challenge to the competition.

Joseph Cwinya-ai, competing in his third edition of the tournament, has realistic goals for his performance at Royal Johannesburg.

“I’m aiming for a better finish this year,” said Cwinya-ai, the reigning Uganda Open champion. “My target is to finish in the top 15, but I also want to be the top East African performer.”

Although Cwinya-ai has never played Royal Johannesburg before, he feels prepared. “From what I’ve heard, Leopard Creek in Mpumalanga last year was tougher,” he noted, referring to the course where the event was held in 2025.

Jackson Were, president of the Uganda Golf Union (UGU), expressed confidence in both the men’s and women’s teams. “As the Union, we believe our golfers will make us proud and represent Uganda with distinction in South Africa,” he said.

Source: The Independent

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