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.

L-R- KOGL Chairman Patrick Obath and Commerical Director Ronald Meru recieve a cheque

By DANIELLA APIYO

SportPesa has announced a Ksh. 20 million sponsorship towards the 2026 Magical Kenya Open, reaffirming its strategic investment in the local sports ecosystem.

The sp0nsorship will support the 57th edition of the Magical Kenya Open, one of Africa’s most prestigious golf tournaments and a key event on the DP World Tour calendar, attracting elite international golfers, global media coverage, and sports tourism opportunities.

Speaking during the announcement at the Karen Country Club, the host golf course for the competition, SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri said: “This is our grand entry into golf, and we are going to keep doing this for years to come.

“By supporting the Magical Kenya Open, we are investing in a platform that attracts world-class talent and enhances Kenya’s international reputation as a competitive host for premier sporting events.”

SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri hands over a cheque worth Ksh 20 million to KOGL Chairman Patrick Obath as sponsorship of the 2026 Magical Kenya Open

Increased prize purse

A total of 144 golf players are expected to compete for this year’s edition which has an improved prize purse of USD 2.7 million.

Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) Chairman Patrick Obath commented on the partnership saying: “We welcome SportPesa as the official gaming and betting partner for the Magical Kenya Open 2026. Their support will help enhance the tournament experience for players, fans, and partners while reinforcing Kenya’s position on the global golfing calendar.”

As a key fixture on the DP World Tour calendar, the Magical Kenya Open has grown significantly in stature in recent years, becoming a platform for elite competition, investment, collaboration, and the promotion of Brand Kenya to global audiences.

Kenya’s flag will be flown by 10 professional and amateur golfers including Justus Madoya, Dismas Indiza, Isaiah Otuke and Jacob Okello, whose second place finish at Muthaiga in 1998 remains the best a Kenyan has reached in the Kenya Open.

Jason Gibson, Chief Commercial Officer at SportPesa with Kenya Open Golf Limited Chairman Patrick Obath at the Karen Country Club

“In golf, we know success is never accidental. It takes preparation, precision, and strong partnerships. With SportPesa on board, we are not just aiming to host a great tournament, we are positioning Magical Kenya Open for sustained growth, and greater international prestige,” said KOGL Commercial Director, Ronald Meru.

The investment in golf comes barely a fortnight after SportPesa announced a Ksh. 120 million multi-sports investment targeting rallying, boxing and rugby. The company also has a running Kes. 1.12 billion title sponsorship of the SportPesa League where it also sponsors Gor Mahia FC, Murang’a SEAL and Shabana FC.

“Kenya is increasingly positioning itself as a host for international sporting events across athletics, rugby, football, motorsport, and now elite golf. We are proud to contribute to this journey by backing events that enhance Kenya’s global competitiveness,” Concluded Jason Gibson, Chief Commercial Officer at SportPesa.