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AFRIYEA Golf Academy, Uganda’s leading junior golf program, has been nominated for the 2025 Golf Environment Awards, competing as the only African organization in the International Golf category.

AFRIYEA Golf Academy, a Ugandan-based junior golf development program with a mission of aligning golf with sustainability, has been shortlisted for the 2025 Golf Environment Awards (GEA) in the International Golf category.

AFRIYEA is the sole African institution nominated, competing against other environmentally conscious golf clubs worldwide, including Camiral Golf and Wellness from Spain, Minthis from Cyprus, Mjölby Golf Club from Sweden, and Quinta do Lago Resort from Portugal.

Established in 1995, the Golf Environment Awards recognize and reward exemplary environmental practices in golf courses globally. These awards promote the sharing of best practices, thereby encouraging the golf industry to contribute positively to climate change mitigation and biodiversity enhancement.

AFRIYEA Golf Academy represents a unique initiative in Uganda, dedicated to teaching golf to Ugandan youth both in schools and communities, while fostering environmental stewardship among young people and their communities. The academy’s curriculum integrates golf with environmental responsibility, emphasizing waste management, tree planting, water conservation, and awareness-raising activities. Additionally, the academy organizes monthly community clean-ups in Fort Portal town and the River Mpanga metropolitan areas, a vital water source for over 1.2 million people.

“As we mark the 30th anniversary of the GEAs, we remain inspired by the unwavering commitment to environmental protection. The high standard of entries each year is remarkable, and we are thrilled to welcome new individuals and clubs to the awards,” stated Richard Stuttard, Director at STRI Group.

At AFRIYEA Golf Academy, we believe that sport transcends competition, serving as a catalyst for positive change. By incorporating eco-friendly practices, promoting environmental awareness, and fostering innovation, we envision a future where golf and nature flourish together. “Being recognized as a finalist in the esteemed Golf Environment Awards underscores our commitment to this vision. Competing with some of the world’s finest golf clubs is an honor, and we are proud to stand with those who share our passion for sustainability,” remarked Isaiah Mwesige, Chief Executive Officer of AFRIYEA.

“This recognition not only celebrates our achievements to date but also signifies our ongoing commitment to creating lasting impacts on our courses, our communities, and the young golfers we nurture. It reinforces our belief that sport can be a powerful force for good and inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries, demonstrating that a greener, more sustainable future for golf and the planet is within reach.”

The winners of the Golf Environment Awards will be announced on January 23, 2025, at the Crown Hotel in Harrogate, Yorkshire.