KAMPALA – Equity Bank Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s economic empowerment by sponsoring the third edition of the 2026 Watoto Golf Tournament with Shs10 million, strengthening its support for initiatives that create sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable communities.
The sponsorship was announced during the tournament partners’ press briefing held on Wednesday at the Uganda Golf Club. Speaking at the event, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director Gift Shoko said the Bank remains committed to investing in programmes that transform lives through economic empowerment.
Held under the theme “Hope on the Green,” this year’s tournament seeks to raise Shs450 million to provide 1,000 vulnerable women with business starter kits worth Shs450,000 each. The initiative aims to enable beneficiaries to establish income-generating businesses, improve household incomes, and provide for their families.
Shoko said the tournament aligns closely with Equity Bank’s mission of empowering women, youth, and entrepreneurs through financial inclusion and enterprise development.
“The Watoto Golf Tournament is a cause that is very near and dear to our mission of supporting women and youth entrepreneurs. That is why we have once again come forward to offer our support. We believe the swings on the golf course this Saturday will go far beyond golf. They will empower families, uplift children, and strengthen our economy. We shall continue supporting this cause because lasting transformation begins with creating opportunities for people to improve their lives,” Shoko said.
He noted that the partnership extends beyond sponsoring a sporting event, reflecting the Bank’s long-term commitment to expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities.
The initiative complements Equity Bank’s flagship EquiMama programme, which supports women-owned businesses through affordable financing, financial literacy, business mentorship, networking opportunities, and tailored banking solutions that help entrepreneurs build sustainable enterprises.
Through EquiMama, women at the micro-business level can access unsecured loans ranging from UGX100,000 to UGX5 million. The programme also provides insurance cover for maternity, life, catastrophe, fire, and temporary or permanent disability. Female customers additionally receive maternity support, including antenatal insurance.
Since its launch in 2021 in response to the economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, EquiMama has trained more than 89,000 women in business development and entrepreneurship while extending loans to over 40,000 women organised in various groups.
The programme also supports rural women by providing free financial literacy training, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to access finance, strengthen business management, and grow their enterprises.
Beyond financing, Equity Bank offers women entrepreneurs tailored business advisory services, advanced business workshops, networking opportunities, and links to financial services, investment opportunities, and markets.
Speaking during the briefing, Watoto Church Lead Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo welcomed Equity Bank’s continued partnership, saying collaboration between the private sector and faith-based organisations is vital in restoring hope and dignity to vulnerable families.
“The vision behind the Watoto Golf Tournament is to restore dignity by equipping women with practical opportunities to earn a living and care for their families. We are grateful to partners like Equity Bank who share our belief that lasting transformation happens when compassion is matched with empowerment. Every contribution made through this tournament represents hope, restored purpose, and a brighter future for hundreds of families,” Rwotlonyo said.
The tournament began with a caddies’ competition on Monday and also features activities designed to introduce new players to golf, promoting greater inclusivity and accessibility within the sport.
As golfers take to the course this weekend, the event will represent far more than a sporting competition. It will serve as a fundraising platform to help vulnerable women establish businesses, build resilient households, and contribute to stronger local economies.
The campaign has brought together Watoto Church, Uganda Golf Club, corporate sponsors, and individual golfers around a shared goal of empowering vulnerable women through entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.
