Equity Bank Uganda has committed Shs 10 million towards the third edition of the 2026 Watoto Golf Tournament, reaffirming its commitment to women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship.
The sponsorship was announced during the tournament’s partners’ briefing at the Uganda Golf Club on Wednesday, where Equity Bank Uganda managing director Gift Shoko said the initiative aligns with the bank’s mission of empowering women, youth and entrepreneurs through financial inclusion and enterprise development.
Held under the theme “Hope on the Green,” this year’s tournament aims to raise Shs 450 million to provide at least 1,000 vulnerable women with business starter kits valued at Shs 450,000 each, enabling them to establish income-generating enterprises and support their families.
“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 said the partnership extends beyond sponsorship of a sporting event and reflects the bank’s long-term commitment to expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities.
Shoko noted that 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 designed to help entrepreneurs build sustainable enterprises.
Under the programme, women operating micro-enterprises can access unsecured loans ranging from Shs 100,000 to Shs 5 million. EquiMama also provides insurance cover for maternity, life, disability, catastrophes and fire. Women enrolled in the programme receive maternity support, including antenatal insurance, during pregnancy.
According to the bank, more than 89,000 women have received business development training under the programme, while over 40,000 women have accessed loans through various groups.
Launched in 2021 in response to the economic challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, EquiMama also equips rural women with financial literacy and business management skills to improve access to finance and expand their enterprises.
Beyond financing, the programme offers business advisory services, advanced entrepreneurship training, networking opportunities and linkages to markets and investment opportunities.
Speaking at the briefing, Watoto Church lead pastor Julius Rwotlonyo welcomed the partnership, saying collaboration between the private sector and faith-based organisations is critical to restoring hope and dignity among 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 will also feature activities aimed at introducing new players to golf as part of efforts to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.
The main tournament is expected to bring together golfers, corporate sponsors and development partners in support of Watoto’s women’s empowerment programme.
