Zambia’s Dominic Musonda made a stunning debut in Uganda, shooting six-under 65 to take the early lead at the Uganda Golf Open at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club on Wednesday.
The 22-year-old Mechanical Engineering student from Nkana Golf Club impressed with eight birdies and a strong short game, finishing two shots ahead of Uganda’s Joseph Cwinya-ai.
Only three others managed under-par rounds: Cwinya-ai (67), Elton Thembo (70), and Abdul Kakeeto (70). Musonda described Lugazi as one of the toughest courses he has played.
“It’s harder than courses in Zambia,” he said. “You can’t even get a proper stance, but my short game and putting kept me going.”
Musonda dropped shots on the par-4 14th and par-3 17th but remains confident in improving his long game in the coming rounds.
Defending champion Joseph Reagan Akena struggled with a six-over 77, leaving him needing what he called “a miracle” to retain the title.
Ugandan hopes remain alive with Cwinya-ai, Thembo, Kakeeto, and a level-par trio of John Musiimenta, Rogers Eyoyo and Peter Tumusiime all within striking distance.
Seventy golfers teed off in the opening round, marking a strong turnout as Lugazi Hills hosts Uganda’s most prestigious tournament for the first time.
With three rounds to go, Musonda’s brilliance faces a stiff challenge from Uganda’s homegrown talent.
