dfcu Bank and Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa have launched a new environmental campaign aimed at cutting down single-use plastic waste on golf courses, in a move the partners say is part of a broader sustainability drive.
The initiative was unveiled during a golf event held at the lakeside resort, where golfers were introduced to reusable aluminium water bottles and refill stations positioned around the course. The campaign seeks to eliminate disposable plastic bottles that have long contributed to waste at sporting events.
Uganda produces an estimated 600 metric tonnes of plastic waste every day, equivalent to more than 219,000 tonnes annually. Greater Kampala alone accounts for between 100 and 150 tonnes daily, according to figures cited during the launch.
The resort’s Director of Golf, Theodor Van Rooyen, said the project forms part of Serena Group’s wider environmental agenda across its properties.
“Today’s golf day is about the plastic-free initiative, which we are implementing in partnership with dfcu Bank. This is part of our commitment to sustainability and reducing single-use plastics across our properties,” Van Rooyen said.
He explained that Serena had already phased out plastic bottles in hotel rooms, conference facilities and other sections of the resort, leaving the golf course as the final area yet to transition.
“The golf course was the last area. We identified single-use plastic bottles as one of the biggest sources of waste, and we wanted to play our part in reducing that,” he added.
Under the arrangement, golfers participating in events at the resort will receive co-branded reusable aluminium bottles from Serena and dfcu Bank, which can be refilled at specially installed water stations across the course.
“Every golfer will receive an aluminium bottle, which is not only practical during the game but also serves as a souvenir. Water stations have been installed across the course to ensure players stay hydrated without relying on disposable plastics,” Van Rooyen said.
He also warned about the growing environmental threat posed by plastic pollution around Lake Victoria.
“We are located on the shores of Lake Victoria, and we see firsthand the impact of plastic waste. This is our contribution to protecting the environment,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Kate K Kizza said environmental sustainability begins with personal responsibility and collective action.
“Sustainability is about lifestyle, hearts and minds. It starts with you and me taking responsibility for our actions and influencing others to do the same,” Kizza said.
She noted that the partnership marks the beginning of a long-term sustainability journey focused on reducing plastic waste generated during golf tournaments and events.
“One of the biggest challenges in Uganda is plastic waste that clogs drainage systems and ends up in our lakes. Through this partnership, we are encouraging the use of reusable bottles while maintaining healthy habits like drinking water,” she said.
Kizza revealed that the initiative is part of a three-year sustainability strategy aimed at progressively eliminating single-use plastics from the golf course.
“Normally after a golf tournament, the course is littered with plastic bottles. Today, we are proud to say we have held a clean and environmentally friendly event,” she added.
She said the ultimate objective was to reduce waste generation rather than simply managing its effects.
“The first step in controlling waste is reducing what we generate. This is just the beginning of a broader journey towards sustainability,” Kizza said.
Both partners expressed hope that the initiative would inspire other golf clubs and institutions across Uganda to adopt similar environmentally friendly practices.
“This is a journey. It may extend to other clubs and sectors as more people embrace responsible practices,” Kizza noted.
