Pro golfer CJ Wangai is one of the golfers representing Kenya in MKO 2026.

By AMANDA DAMARIS

Betika has today injected KES 3.2 million in sponsorship for five of Kenya’s premier golfers. The sponsored lineup features elite amateurs Michael Karanga and John Lejirma, alongside seasoned professionals CJ Wangai, Samuel Njoroge, and Justus Madoya.

This elite cohort is set to represent the country at the prestigious 2026 Magical Kenya Open (MKO), a standout fixture of the DP World Tour, which returns to the lush fairways of the Karen Country Club from February 19th to February 22nd, 2026.

The KES 3.2 million fund is designed to cover tournament preparations, endorsement fees, and logistics, ensuring the players are in peak condition to challenge an international field of golfers. This marks the third consecutive year of Betika’s involvement in sponsoring MKO players.

Betika Group CEO Mutua Mutava stated, “We remain committed to elevating Kenyan sports on the global stage. By concentrating our support on these five outstanding athletes, we aim to provide more targeted assistance to individuals who have demonstrated consistent excellence throughout the season.” He further added, “The talent present in Kenyan golf is undeniable, and we take great pride in supporting these athletes as they compete against the world’s best at Karen Country Club.”

The 2026 team enters the tournament on the back of a stellar 2025 season characterized by record-breaking performances. John Lejirma arrives at Karen as the reigning 2025 KAGC Series Champion following a dominant year that included nine tournament victories. He is joined by Michael Karanga, the first amateur to qualify for this year’s MKO after a historic win at the 2025 Kenya Amateur Match Play Championship and successful title defenses at the Sigona Bowl and Kiambu Open.

On the professional front, Samuel Njoroge continues his ascent after a significant triumph at the PGK Equator Tour in Diani late last year. He is bolstered by the experience of CJ Wangai, who recently set a course record of 6-under-par at VetLab during the Sunshine Development Tour, and Justus Madoya, whose robust season across the East African region included a top-tier finish in the Rwanda leg of the professional circuit.

Michael Karanga, on behalf of the sponsored players, stated, “We are prepared for the upcoming weekend. Our intention is not merely to participate in Karen, but to compete at the highest level. It is gratifying to focus solely on the game without financial concerns.” Having maintained peak performance throughout the past year, Karanga conveyed a strong confidence that this year a Kenyan will make a serious bid for the trophy.

The 2026 Magical Kenya Open is expected to attract over 25,000 spectators and a full field of 144 players from more than 30 countries. Kenya brings the largest international contingent with 18 players – 12 professionals and 6 amateurs, followed by South Africa with 17 players led by defending champion Jacques Kruyswijk.

Vipingo Ridge’s Naomi Wafula follows the path of her tee shot during the 7th leg of the Sunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing.

By AMANDA DAMARIS

Kenyan golfers are approaching the eighth leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing with confidence and renewed determination as the Tour moves to the par-72 Limuru Country Club for the Betika Masters, taking place from 9th to 11th November 2025. Click this link https://a.meridianbet.ke/c/C7pYjz to start gaming and stand a chance of winning big with Meridianbet.

The tournament arrives just days after a thrilling VetLab leg, where several Kenyan golfers delivered strong performances and secured valuable world ranking and Safari Tour Order of Merit points in their quest for qualification to the 2026 Magical Kenya Open. With 88 professional and elite amateur golfers from across Africa expected in Limuru, the field promises intense competition and high-quality golf.

Among the Kenyan golfers gearing up for the challenge is John Wangai, the chairman of the Professional Golfers of Kenya, who finished runner-up at VetLab. Wangai says he feels mentally and technically ready for the demands of Limuru’s layout.

“I’m feeling like I’m in good control of my game now and I’m looking forward to playing even better at Limuru,” he said.

“Limuru resembles my home club, Sigona, in terms of layout and weather. Because of that, I’m really working on accuracy off the tee, placing the ball exactly where it should be, because that’s what Limuru demands.”

Wangai added that his driving and putting have given him the most confidence heading into the event.

“Driving and putting are keeping me going; they’re the strongest part of my game at the moment. The Sunshine Development Tour gives us a platform to play more, to improve, and to earn opportunities to progress to the Sunshine Tour and even bigger tours like the DP World Tour.”

CJ Wangai in action during the second round of the Masters tournament at VetLab Sports Club

Reflecting on lessons learned from the VetLab event, Wangai highlighted the mental side of competition.

“The main lesson for me was staying in the moment, even when under pressure and being patient throughout the round.”

Also heading into Limuru in high spirits is Naom Wafula, the only woman who made the cut at VetLab and one of the most promising female golfers in the region. Wafula says she is determined to build on the momentum she has gained from recent events.

“I’m feeling really confident overall about my game right now, and that’s definitely a big plus heading into Limuru,” Wafula said.

“I want to carry the same energy, focus, and determination that I had at VetLab into this next event.”

Wafula noted that Limuru’s cold and wet conditions demand careful preparation.

“Limuru can be quite cold and wet, which is very different from the weather at the Coast. The last time I played there, I actually got sick, so this time I’m much better prepared. Golf takes us to different climates, and I’m learning to adapt quickly whether it’s hot, windy, or freezing.”

The mixed-gender format of the Sunshine Development Tour has also been instrumental in her development.

“Competing in a mixed field with the men means a lot to me. It’s a great challenge and it pushes me to grind harder, stay sharp, and improve every day. It’s helping me become a stronger, more complete player.”

Looking ahead to Limuru, Wafula’s focus remains clear and steady.

“My goal is to give it my all, take it one shot at a time, and stay patient. I want to keep building on the momentum I have.”

She added that the Tour has played a major role in her long-term aspirations.

“I aspire to play in bigger international events, and the SDT–EAS has been an amazing pathway. The competition level is high and it’s preparing me for the challenges ahead. I’m very grateful for the opportunities, this Tour is taking me steps closer to my dreams.”

The Betika Masters event at Limuru will offer Ksh 2 million in prize money, Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, and Safari Tour ranking points that count towards qualifying for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.