Ronald Rugumayo, widely regarded as East Africa’s top professional golfer, has been officially unveiled as the newest “Walker” (brand influencer) by global whisky giant Johnnie Walker. The announcement came just days before the official tee-off of the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open Championship, which began on Friday at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club.
The partnership between Rugumayo and Johnnie Walker is being celebrated as a perfect match, bringing together a global brand built on the philosophy of progress and a sportsman whose life story reflects resilience, ambition, and determination.
Born in Kabarole District, Western Uganda, Rugumayo’s journey into golf began at his home course in Tooro. From those humble beginnings, he nurtured his passion for the game, even when resources were limited. Determined to chase his dream, he later moved to Kampala where he took up work as a caddie. It was during those years that he steadily developed his craft, gaining valuable experience while watching and learning from seasoned golfers.
Over time, Rugumayo’s persistence started paying off. From being a caddie, he transitioned into the competitive scene and steadily rose through the ranks to become Uganda’s leading golfer. His career took him beyond national borders, as he went on to compete in South Africa’s Sunshine Tour, one of the most prestigious golf competitions on the continent.
In 2024, Rugumayo made history when he became the first Ugandan golfer to ever make the cut at a DP World Tour event. That moment came at the Magical Kenya Open after he dramatically sank a decisive birdie on the 18th hole, sealing his place in the records of both Ugandan and East African golf. He also went further to etch his name in the history books when he became the first Ugandan to record a hole-in-one at the same tournament, a feat that not only boosted his reputation but also inspired many young golfers across the region.
Among his peers and supporters, he is fondly known as “Mayo,” a name that has grown to become synonymous with progress and trailblazing within Ugandan sport. His journey from caddie to international golf tours has made him a role model for countless young sportsmen and women in Uganda and across East Africa.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Ms. Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker Uganda, explained why the company chose to partner with Rugumayo. She noted that his life story perfectly mirrors the brand’s global campaign that celebrates progress through perseverance.
“We are happy to partner with Rugumayo because he embodies our philosophy of progress. Against all odds, he has kept walking, taking bold steps, regardless of life’s challenges. Stories like his need to be told because they speak directly to the spirit of progress, and that is exactly why this partnership is so important to us,” she said.
Rugumayo, in his response, expressed excitement at joining forces with Johnnie Walker, describing the moment as a dream come true. “Partnering with one of the world’s most iconic brands is a dream come true. I’m incredibly excited because this speaks directly to my journey, from my humble beginnings in Tooro to becoming a caddie in Kampala, and now competing on the Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour. Being recognised by a brand like Johnnie Walker affirms that progress is possible, and that bold dreams can truly walk with you,” he said.
For Rugumayo, the unveiling is not just a commercial partnership, but also a recognition of his resilience and the hard work he has invested in his career. It also provides him with a bigger platform to inspire others, particularly young athletes, to pursue their goals against all odds.
The timing of the announcement was also symbolic, as it came just ahead of the prestigious 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open Championship. The tournament, which teed off at Lugazi Hills Golf & Country Club, has attracted some of Africa’s finest golfers and promises to be a major highlight in Uganda’s sports calendar.
As Rugumayo prepares to step onto the course alongside top golfers from across the continent, he carries with him not only the hopes of Uganda’s golfing community but also the spirit of progress that Johnnie Walker promotes globally. The partnership is expected to inspire new audiences both within and beyond the sport, reinforcing the idea that resilience and bold steps can open doors to greater success.
For now, all eyes remain on Lugazi Hills as Uganda hosts this major tournament, with Ronald Rugumayo at the centre of attention—representing not just his country, but also the message of progress, hope, and ambition for future generations of golfers.
