At least 25 teams have participated in today’s Breast Cancer Fundraising tournament at the Uganda Golf Club par 72 course at Kitante.
Among the teams, Vodafone Uganda has sponsored U-18 golfers led by 11-year-old John Musimenta, who played off the men’s tees.
According Ms. Katy Kabenge, one of the tournament organizers, stable ford and full handicap were the modes of play for the Friday tournament.
Vodafone CEO, Mr. Allan Richardson said Vodafone prides itself on empowering people to be at their best.
“We decided to sponsor a team of some of the finest budding golfers to enable them use their talent for a good cause. Taking part in the breast cancer fundraising tournament is their way of making a contribution to society, ” said Mr. Richardson.
He added, “Partnering with the Ladies Section is one of the ways that Vodafone is enabling women get involved in an activity that is more than just a sport but a lifestyle and it also provides the brand an opportunity to connect with its customers and share their passion and interests.”
The proceeds from the tournament will go towards supporting activities of Uganda Women Cancer Support Organization (UWOCASO), an initiative of breast cancer survivors committed involved in raising awareness about breast cancer as well as encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.
“The tournament is something that we do every year to raise awareness about breast cancer and encourage women to go for breast cancer testing,” Ms. Kabenge said. “During this time some breast cancer survivors come out to share their life stories and encourage women to go for early testing”.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) “breast cancer is the top cancer in women worldwide and is increasing particularly in developing countries where the majority of cases are diagnosed in late stages”. It is estimated that the National Cancer Institute at Mulago receives between 300 to 400 breast cancer cases annually.
“We hope that through this tournament we will encourage more women to come out and get tested for breast cancer, one of leading cancers in women, and also to give hope to those with chronic breast cancer,” Ms. Kabenge said.