Kubwa Criticizes Limited Local Golf Tournaments as Key Challenge for Kenyan Pro Golfers
Kubwa Highlights Lack of Local Golf Tournaments Hurting Prospects for Kenyan Golfers Ahead of Magical Kenya Open
Nairobi, Kenya – February 11, 2025 – Kenyan professional golfers have voiced their frustrations over the limited number of local tournaments this year, which they claim are hampering their ability to prepare adequately for international competitions, including the prestigious Magical Kenya Open.
During the launch event of the Magical Kenya Open at Muthaiga Golf Club, Jeff Kubwa, the representative of local pro golfers, expressed concern over the lack of sponsorship deals to support the development of Kenyan golf talent. He emphasized that insufficient domestic tournaments and funding have made it difficult for players to stay competitive ahead of global events.
“This year, we haven’t played as much as we did in the past due to funding challenges, which have been a significant hurdle for us,” Kubwa stated.
Despite these difficulties, there is optimism surrounding the upcoming Magical Kenya Open, with a generous contribution of Ksh. 60 million from ABSA Bank towards the tournament. The four-day competition will take place at Muthaiga Golf Club and is expected to attract 144 players from around the world, including eight Kenyan professionals competing for a share of the $2.5 million prize pool.
While acknowledging the lack of local tournaments, Kubwa remained positive about Kenya’s preparation for the event, stating that despite fewer opportunities to compete domestically, Kenyan players are still eager to make a strong impact. “We are adequately prepared as professional golfers in Kenya. We’ve had our internal series, and although there haven’t been many tournaments, we are ready to give it our best shot,” Kubwa added.
In a bid to encourage the next generation of golfers, the Magical Kenya Open will also feature clinics for young aspiring players. Three professional golfers will be conducting these sessions, offering insights and inspiration for juniors looking to make it in the sport.
Patrick Obath, Director of Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL), shared that the initiative is part of a broader effort to develop the sport among Kenya’s youth. “KOGL has invited three top players to host clinics with our best junior golfers. These players can serve as inspirations to the young ones, showing them that with hard work, they too can achieve success in golf,” Obath explained.
As the Magical Kenya Open draws closer, all eyes are on the Kenyan golfers, with hopes high that they will break through and achieve a podium finish, something the country has not accomplished in recent years.
Kubwa Criticizes Limited Local Golf Tournaments as Key Challenge for Kenyan Pro Golfers