Kenya Revenue Authority Commissioner General Githii Mburu officially opening the Golf course irrigation project.

By DANIELLA APIYO AND AMANDA DAMARIS

Ruiru Sports Club at the weekend launched a course irrigation project at the Golf Course as the club gears towards establishing a world-class club that will host regional and international events.

The renovation of the course that began in May 2019 has already cost the club over Sh 30 million and involved installation of a water pump and golf irrigation system at the par 72 course that spans 246 acres.

The project was officially launched by the Kenya Revenue Authority Commissioner General Githii Mburu. In his remarks, the Commissioner-General encouraged the golfers to continue engaging with the KRA and to be tax compliant. He observed that this will go a long way in supporting sustainable economic development of the country.

“The renovation of the course will enable Ruiru Sports Club to host international tournaments attracting revenue for development,” said Mburu.

He added: “KRA believes in partnerships with both public and private organizations towards strengthening this partnership for better development of our country. Our partnership with Ruiru Sports Club gives us an opportunity to interact with out taxpayers and enables us to facilitate them on tax compliance.”

On his part, the Club Captain Peter Mwaura said that the Club is aiming to host international events in the next three to five years.

“This project will help the club in its ambition to host regional and international competitions while attracting top talents across Africa,” Mr. Mwaura said.  Adding that “The irrigation project was financed through members’ subscriptions.”

The comprehensive irrigation system will see an increase in sprinklers and better playing conditions at the golf club throughout the year. The huge upgrade for the club will be crucial in all parts of the golf course greens and tees. Golfers will enjoy a better blend from the fairway to approach the putting surface once the new irrigation system effect takes place.

Ruiru Sports Club boasts of over 1,100 active members. “The number of active club members has significantly grown from 500 members to over 1,100 members over the past three years,” Mwaura said.

The ceremony was attended by businessman Linus Gitahi, Kenya Golf Union and Kenya Ladies Golf Union officials.

KBL Managing Director Jane Karuku (Left) signs a ceremonial cheque to the Kenya Open Golf Limited, looking on are KGU chairman Anthony Murage (Center) and KOGL Finance Director Joe Wangai.

By DANIELLA APIYO AND AMANDA DAMARIS

Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) through its premium spirits brand Johnnie Walker, has today announced a KShs 40 million sponsorship towards the 2020 Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship, which will be held on the 12^th – 15^th of March at the Karen Country Club.

The sponsorship tranche is the second part of the three-year deal committed last year with the Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL), organisers of the golf championship that secured rights to be the official alcoholic beverages partner.

Speaking at the cheque presentation ceremony held at the KBL offices, Managing Director, Mrs. Jane Karuku noted that the partnership with the Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship fits well with the organisation’s sports development agenda.

“The Kenya Breweries Limited is delighted to continue its sponsorship of the Magical Kenya Open for yet another year. As the most premier sporting event in the region, the Golf Championship continues to fit in with the company’s goals,” Mrs. Karuku said.

The sponsorship announcement comes a few days after Johnnie Walker announced a Kshs. 3.2 Million payout to Kenya’s top pro golfers, Dismas Indiza and Greg Snow, as well as sponsorship towards the last three local legs of the 2019/20 Safari Tour Golf series.

Karuku added that the continued partnership offers the brand an opportunity to interact with their consumers, while promising fans a great experience at the four-day tournament.

“This renewed commitment gives us yet another opportunity to interact with golf fans and our target audience across the region. We look forward to offering fans and players the best of experiences at the 2020 Magical Kenya Open, courtesy of Johnnie Walker,” she said.

Speaking at the same event, Kenya Open Golf Limited Director, Mr. Joe Wangai expressed delight at having KBL on board for the Tournament.

“This year we are happy to once again welcome the Kenya Breweries Limited on board, through the Johnnie Walker brand, as the official alcoholic beverage partner. Last year, the brand brought the tournament village to life, which in turn saw a record number of fans attending the tournament,” he said.

“This year we have once again taken steps to ensure that the fans have a great time at the tournament, the access to the golf course will be through the village area, and with KBL on board, we are sure to have a great experience for all,” he added.

Karuku concluded by urging fans to come out in large numbers to enjoy four days of great golf. “As an organization, we look forward to being part of another successful tournament and wish to welcome Kenyans to join us at the Karen Country Club from the 12th-15th of March, for a truly unique experience courtesy of Johnnie Walker.”

ENDS/…