COUNTDOWN: Equity Waitara Trophy set for another big battle at lugalo

14 september 2026

By Staff Writer

The stage is set for another battle at TPDF Lugalo Golf Club, with more than 150 golfers expected to converge on the Dar es Salaam course for the 2026 Equity Waitara Trophy on September 19.

The tournament, sponsored by Equity Bank, has grown steadily since its establishment in 2011 and is now regarded as one of Lugalo’s major annual competitions.

This year’s tournament comes as the club prepares to mark its 20th anniversary, adding another layer of significance to an event already built around the legacy of its founder, General (Rtd) George Waitara.

Lugalo Golf Club Chairman Major General Wilbert Ibuge said preparations were progressing well, promising an exciting day of competition.

“We are ready for another interesting event that will take the Lugalo course by storm,” Ibuge said.

Among those expected to attract attention is defending champion Dr Edmund Mndolwa, who returns determined to retain the trophy and make history as the first golfer to win the tournament in back-to-back editions.

Mndolwa claimed last year’s title after carding an impressive six-under-par net 66 over 18 holes.

His return therefore adds another intriguing storyline to this year’s competition.

The tournament will feature Division A, B and C, Seniors, Veterans and Ladies categories, while juniors will compete separately because organisers expect a large turnout on September 19.

Lugalo Golf Club Manager Colonel David Mziray said the tournament was particularly important because it honours Waitara, whose contribution was central to the establishment and development of the club.

Administration Officer Major Chediel Msechu urged golfers to register early to enable organisers to plan effectively for the expected turnout.

Golfers are expected from Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club, TPC Moshi, Arusha Gymkhana, Morogoro Gymkhana, Kilimanjaro Golf Club, Mufindi Golf Club, Moshi Golf Club and Sea Cliff Zanzibar.

Registration remains open through golfers’ WhatsApp groups and other club communication channels.

The competition will be played under stroke play netf format.

“For the juniors, we have decided that they will play on a different day because we expect a large number of golfers on September 19. However, Equity Bank has set aside special prizes for them,” Msechu said.

Equity Bank Head of Marketing Shumbana James said recently the sponsorship reflected the bank’s commitment to supporting the development of golf in Tanzania.

She said the partnership would also create an opportunity to bring golfers and other stakeholders together while providing a platform for engagement around the sport.

With the field expected to exceed 150 golfers, the 2026 edition promises plenty of competition.

But beyond the battle for prizes, one question will dominate the fairways.

EQUITY WAITARA TROPHY 2026 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

👉 REGISTER HERE: 

EQUITY WAITARA TROPHY 2026 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

👉 REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Rmuj5yYLUic9q7RP8