Watoto Golf Tournament 2025 to raise sh350m for vulnerable mothers’ businesses

KAMPALA - Watoto Childcare Ministries has officially launched the second edition of the Watoto Golf Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Uganda Golf Club in Kampala.

Themed “Hope On The Green,” the event is both a competitive sports tournament and a strategic fundraising drive aimed at empowering 1,000 vulnerable mothers across Uganda with startup capital for small businesses.

The 2025 edition seeks to raise sh350m, which will be used to provide each participating mother with a business starter kit worth sh350,000.

These funds are expected to directly boost economic inclusion, help restore dignity, and position women to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s social and economic transformation.

According to Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, Team Leader at Watoto Church Ministries, the tournament reflects the organisation’s commitment to practical outreach and long-term community development.

“At Watoto Church, we are committed to being a movement of hope, healing, and transformation. Over the past three decades, we have cared for nearly 6,000 children and empowered over 7,500 women. Currently, we are supporting 1,125 vulnerable mothers, and this initiative is a continuation of that mission,” he said.

Last year’s tournament attracted over 200 golfers and 12 corporate partners, raising sh89.4 m, which was used to purchase training equipment for students at Watoto’s Hope Vocational and Technical Institute. The equipment is now helping over 300 students pursue professional skills in ICT, media, carpentry, and mechanics.

This year’s tournament introduces a significant development: the participation of the Uganda Professional Golfers Association (UPGA). This marks the first time Uganda’s pro golfers are joining the event, adding a layer of national prestige and emotional resonance.

Many UPGA members come from backgrounds similar to the mothers Watoto serves, highlighting a shared story of resilience and opportunity.

The professional segment will take place from August 7 to 9, featuring a total kitty of sh17m of which sh.5 m will support Watoto’s cause, sh.10 m is reserved as prize money, and sh2 m is allocated to a Thursday shootout. This segment is sponsored by Acasia Place Limited and Afro-Kai Limited.

The main amateur tournament on August 9 will follow a Stableford full handicap format and is open to both seasoned golfers and newcomers, the latter of whom can participate in a specially arranged golf clinic.

Rwotlonyo emphasised that this initiative demonstrates how sport can serve as a conduit for social change.

“The Watoto Golf Tournament is where sport meets purpose. As players walk the fairways, they also walk alongside mothers whose lives will be changed. This is not just a charity event, it is a platform to mobilise individuals, organisations, and networks to invest in human dignity and sustainable impact.”

According to a press release, Uganda Golf Club, the host venue, expressed its continued support for the initiative.

“Hosting the Watoto Golf Tournament reflects our shared commitment to using sport as a tool for community development. Our members are proud to be part of a cause that uplifts lives.”

Partner organisations supporting the event include Power 104.1 FM, Opportunity Bank, Stanbic Bank, Equity Bank, East African Development Bank, Uganda Airlines, Fairway Hotel, Imbogo, Pepsi, Acasia Place Limited, and Afro-Kai Limited.