Olomi leads in Uganda Ladies Open round one

UGANDA: TANZANIA’s Neema Olomi took an early lead at the 2025 Uganda Ladies Open Golf Championship, carding a composed 2-over-par 73 to top the leaderboard after Thursday’s first round at the scenic but challenging Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club.

Representing Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC), the rising star displayed consistency and calm under pressure, finishing four strokes ahead of Uganda’s top contender, Martha Babirye, who signed for a 6-over-par 77.

The 54-hole championship, a prestigious event on the East African women’s golf calendar, brings together leading players from across the region and is set to conclude today.

Olomi, who is chasing her second Uganda Ladies Open title, arrived in Uganda in fine form, fresh from winning the Kenyan Ladies Coast Open Series earlier this month in Mombasa.

She previously captured her first major title in 2018 at the Lake Victoria Serena Resort & Spa, posting rounds of 80, 74 and 75 for a winning total of 229. However, it was a rough start for defending champion and fellow Tanzanian Madina Iddi, who struggled to find her rhythm.

Iddi, who successfully defended her UGC Ladies Open title just two weeks ago, shot a disappointing 13-over-par 84, leaving her tied for 7th place and facing an uphill battle to retain her crown.

Kenya’s Mercy Nyachama sits in third place with a 7-over-par 78, keeping herself within striking distance, while Uganda’s Winnie Musuya and Kenya’s Ashley Awuor are tied for fourth at 9-over-par 80.

Other Tanzanian participants included Vicky Elias (87), Khadija Lusakale (95), Racheal Mushi (99) and TLGU honorary treasurer Yasim Chali (102), all of whom will be looking to improve in Friday’s second round.

As the tournament continues into its second day, all eyes will be on Olomi as she seeks to extend her lead and secure back-to-back titles for Tanzania.

Meanwhile, Iddi must mount a significant comeback over the next two rounds to remain in contention.