All is set for the start of the 17th edition of the East Africa Golf Challenge, according to the event organisers, East Africa Golf Federation and hosts, the Rwanda Golf Union (RGU).

The 2015 edition of the region’s biggest inter-country tournament, which has attracted five teams, each comprising eight players, a reserve and two officials, officially begins on Wednesday with the flag-raising ceremony but the competition proper tees off on Thursday at the Par-72 Kigali golf course in Nyarutarama.

While addressing a news conference at the Kigali golf club on Tuesday, the president of EA Golf Federation, David Nyakango said he was impressed by the course and hopes the players will be able to represent their countries with honour.

"Everything is set, I have had a walk around the course together the officials here (Rwanda Golf Union), and I can say, it is in a very good condition. It’s a nine-golf course, because of the ongoing work on the other (9 holes), so we understand what’s going on,” the Kenyan official said.

He added, "We hope the players represent their countries with honour, but most importantly, make friends, which is the main objective of this tournament.’

Countries taking part include Uganda, who are the defending champions, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and hosts Rwanda.

Burundi, pulled out at the last minute, according to RGU president Andrew Nkwandi.

The inaugural edition was held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, while Rwanda organised it for the first time in 2005, the year the country was admitted into the regional golf body. The second and last time it was  held in Rwanda was in 2010.

The Rwf25 million three-day tournament, which brings together the best amateur players in their respective countries, is backed by Rwanda Development Bank and UK-based Royal and Ancient Golf Club.