Fraterne Rubangura started the season with a bang after back to back wins in the Fina Bank and MTN-Ericsson Open. But the golfer quickly lost his touch and has since struggled to find his rhythm.

However, ahead of today’s MTN-Ericsson invitational golf tournament at Kigali Golf Club, the handicap 04 golfer recently warned that he is back to defend his crown.

"I have not been in the best form lately but the mere fact that I won the 2007 edition means that I can do it again,” he said.

Rubangura however, expects stiff competition from a list of players like Rajan Tiwari, Steven Katwiremu, Marcel Byusa, Jack Kayonga and veteran golfer Andrew Nkwandi who are part of 60 golfers taking part in the one-day tournament.

A galaxy of exciting prizes like phones, airtime and an array of corporate memorabilia are up for grabs today as MTN celebrate their 10th anniversary in Rwanda. 

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Ruterana and professional rookie Jean Baptist Hakizimana will lead the way for Rwanda in today’s KCB golf classic at Kampala’s Kitante golf club.

The duo is part of 15 professionals battling for a cash bounty of Shs2.5m.

After yesterday’s practice session, Hakizimana, who is also sponsored by MTN Rwandacell, said that he was targeting to shake off his Uganda Open woes as he builds confidence for next month’s Mützig Rwanda Open in Kigali.

"Today, it’s about making steady progress because I need to get my confidence levels up ahead of the Rwanda Open. That’s my focus for now,” the 19-year-old said.

Hakizimana joined the professional ranks two months ago after signing a huge contract with MTN, his official sponsors.

On top of a monthly cash package, Hakizimana also landed a fully stocked customized golf bag courtesy of the telecommunications company.

Ends