In a vibrant display of regional camaraderie, golfers from Kenya and Uganda converged at the Limuru Country Club for the fourth edition of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series, aptly nicknamed the Migingo Skirmishes. The event, held on Saturday, saw Kenya emerge victorious with 36 points against Uganda's 12, but the real triumph was the spirit of unity and shared passion for the sport.
A Celebration of Talent and Tenacity
The tournament attracted 252 golfers from both nations, competing in a match play format where each win earned one point and a tie half a point. The team event also recognized Daniel Kanyu and Renaldo D’souza for the largest winning margin, a impressive 10&8 victory over Michael Sekadde and Ceasar Barole.
In the individual competition, Uganda's Moses Matsiko, playing off a handicap of 6, led Men's Group A with 37 points, closely followed by Brian Nsimbi (37) and J.N. Kihanya (35). Victor Oduor dominated Men's Group C with 44 points, while Winnie topped Ladies Group B with 39 points. Andrew Koech claimed Men's Group B with 43 points, tying with runner-up Nelson Githinji, and Elizabeth Gak led Ladies Group A with 39 points.
More Than Just a Game
For the Ugandan golfers, many of whom had participated in the inaugural edition in November 2024, the event was a poignant return to Limuru Country Club, which had been ravaged by fire. Club Chairman Geoffrey Githinji expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership between the Kenyan and Ugandan golfing communities.
I&M Bank Group Regional CEO Kihara Maina, a Limuru member and initiator of the Skirmishes, emphasized the broader significance of such initiatives. "As businesses increasingly look beyond their home markets, these connections can open doors and create new opportunities across the region," he said. "Through solutions such as IMBRISK, we make it easier for customers to access and move their money across I&M Bank's network in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda."
Kihara also proposed hosting the next Migingo Skirmishes at a neutral course to ensure fairness, as home courses often favor hosts. I&M Bank Uganda CEO Robin Bairstow reflected on the series' growth, noting, "When I&M Bank Uganda partnered with Katogo in 2023, we did not imagine that the series would grow into one of the most sought-after golfing events in the country and even extend beyond our borders."
Building Bridges Through Golf
Uganda Golf Union President Dr. Jackson Were, who participated in the tournament, commended the organizers and I&M Bank for fostering regional ties. "Golf in Uganda continues to grow across all categories, from ladies and amateur golf to the professional level," he said. "Platforms like the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series give us a chance to connect with golfers from the region and share in that growth."
Katogo Captain Elly Mukasa highlighted the personal connections formed. "We are now looking to the future. With the renewed I&M Bank partnership, I believe we will achieve even more," he said. "Most of us never imagined we would come this far, but the support and opportunities along the way have been incredible."
Annette Nakiyaga, I&M Bank Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, underscored the bank's commitment to uniting customers beyond banking. "Our multicurrency prepaid cards, for instance, made it easier to pay for services at the club, hotels, and different venues," she said. "This is part of our commitment to being on your side, wherever life takes you."
The day concluded with a lively denim-and-white-themed 19th Hole experience hosted by Kenyan comedian and MC Professor Hamo, leaving participants eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this growing regional tradition.
