Lira basks in afterglow of Equity Ladies Golf Open

July 8, 2025 in Companies by Editor

The northern city of Lira is still basking in the afterglow of a vibrant weekend of sport, camaraderie, and celebration following the successful conclusion of the 4th edition of the Lira Ladies Golf Open. The two-day event, held from July 4–5 at the Lira Golf Course, was sponsored by Equity Bank Uganda and drew more than 100 golfers from across the country—marking another high point in the rise of women’s golf in the region.

Held under the theme “Backing Every Bold Swing,” the tournament transcended its competitive format to become a festival of empowerment, networking, and community pride. From the opening tee-off by professional golfers on Friday to the amateur showdowns on Saturday, the event radiated a sense of purpose—giving prominence to women in golf, a sport once considered exclusive and distant from Northern Uganda’s athletic mainstream.

“This event is about more than golf,” said Kenneth Okello, Branch Manager of Equity Bank in Lira. “It’s about building visibility for women in sport, promoting inclusion, and giving Northern Uganda a seat at the table in national sports conversations.”

At the end of two days of thrilling competition, Meron Kyomugisha of Palm Valley Golf and Country Club emerged as the overall champion, etching her name in the annals of the Lira Open with a calm and commanding performance. Golf luminaries Martha Babirye and Peace Kabasweka shared second place in what was a tightly contested leaderboard, further raising the tournament’s prestige.

For Lira, the event delivered more than just silverware and scorecards—it infused the city with energy, hospitality-driven business, and pride. Hotels, restaurants, and transport operators all reported a notable uptick in activity over the weekend, a clear indicator of the economic ripple effects such events can create for regional towns.

Beyond the branding and sponsorship Equity Bank’s presence on the ground—including staff engagement and community outreach—reinforced its dual commitment to economic development and social impact.

“Our support for golf is anchored in a broader belief: that sports can be a vehicle for transformation,” said Mr. Okello. “Through platforms like the Lira Ladies Open, we help build confidence, inspire ambition, and strengthen community ties.”

The tournament has increasingly become a launchpad for emerging talent and a networking hub for women in sport. It also continues to reshape perceptions around golf, drawing in younger audiences and participants who once saw the sport as inaccessible.

As the final applause fades and the greens return to their quiet rhythm, Lira can look back on a weekend that did more than crown a champion—it united a community, spotlighted a region, and affirmed the power of partnership between sport and business.