Veteran Ugandan golfer Deo Akope wins Captain Bell once again, reaffirming his dominance on the national golf scene. His remarkable performance at the 2025 Absa Uganda Golf Club Captain’s Bell Professionals Tournament marked a triumphant return to form and solidified his place among Uganda’s top golf talents.
Stellar Performance Over Four Rounds
Akope delivered an outstanding performance over four rounds at the Uganda Golf Club (UGC) Kitante course. He finished with a stunning 11-under-par total of 277 strokes, recording rounds of 72, 69, and two consecutive 68s. His consistency earned him an emphatic eight-stroke lead over runner-up Grace Kasango, who posted 285 strokes in total.
“This win feels even more special given how much work we’ve put into preparing for this season,” Akope said after the final round.
A Second Captain’s Bell Title in Three Years
This latest victory marks Akope’s second Captain’s Bell title in just three years—he also won the tournament in 2022. He credited his renewed success to intense physical training under the guidance of Coach Eddie Okila and a revamped putting strategy inspired by Scottie Scheffler, a PGA Tour star known for his mental discipline and sharp technique.
“Watching how Scheffler manages pressure helped me rework how I approach critical putts,” Akope noted during his post-match remarks.
Absa Bank’s Continued Commitment to Golf
The 2025 tournament was held with the continued support of Absa Bank Uganda, which has now sponsored the prestigious event for seven consecutive years. The financial institution invested a total of UGX 179 million, with UGX 20 million allocated for the professionals’ prize pool—a strong signal of its commitment to growing the sport in Uganda.
“Our partnership with Uganda Golf Club reflects our belief in empowering sports talent in Uganda,” said Absa’s head of marketing during the awards ceremony.
Amateur Brilliance: Joseph Cwinya-ai Makes History
In the amateur ranks, national team captain Joseph Cwinya-ai made headlines by tying the course record with an incredible round of 63 on Day 1. He maintained his lead throughout the competition, finishing with a total of 200 strokes across three rounds to win the elite gross category.
His performance further cements his position as one of Uganda’s top amateur golfers and a bright prospect for the future.
Celebrating Golf and Culture at the 19th Hole
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The event culminated in a lively 19th hole dinner and awards ceremony, attended by dignitaries, golfers, and fans alike. The legendary Afrigo Band took to the stage, delivering a powerful performance that celebrated both sporting excellence and Ugandan heritage.
The evening was a reflection of how golf in Uganda continues to evolve—not only as a competitive sport but also as a cultural and social experience that brings people together.
Deo Akope’s Captain Bell win in 2025 was more than just a golf victory—it was a celebration of resilience, preparation, and the bright future of the sport in Uganda. With players like Akope and Cwinya-ai leading the charge, Uganda’s golfing scene is reaching new heights both locally and across the continent.
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