Uganda Golf National Team captain Joseph Cwinya-ai is the new champion of the 84th Uganda Golf Amateur Open, delivering a superb final-round performance to claim his second national amateur crown at the par-71 Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club.
Cwinya-ai finished 10-under 274 after four rounds, overturning a three-day deficit to Zambia’s Dominic Musonda, who had led the first 54 holes.
The Tooro and Uganda Golf Club star posted rounds of 67, 68, 72, and 67, closing with a calm 4-under on Sunday to seal victory.
“I’m so happy for this win,” an emotional Cwinya-ai said after lifting his second amateur title, following his 2021 triumph.
“From day one, I believed I could do it. I thank my caddie, my management, and everyone who supported me.”
Musonda, 22, from Nkana Golf Club, settled for second on 7-under 277 after a disputed referee’s call on the 10th hole in the final round, which he described as “a turning point.”
Ugandans Abdul Kakeeto and Anthony Otukei tied for third on 287, while defending champion Joseph Reagan Akena finished fifth on 288.
Other top finishers included Derrick Musana (289), Rogers Eyoyo (291), Godfrey Kambale (292), Ibrahim Ssemakula (292), and Peter Tumusiime (295).
Attention now shifts to the Professional Open, set for September 10–13 at the same Lugazi venue, with the Pro-Am scheduled for September 9.
This year’s tournament made history as the Uganda Golf Open hosted its flagship event outside Kampala and Entebbe for the first time, adding extra significance to Cwinya-ai’s stunning victory.
