February 2026

Rift Valley, Kenya | 16 February 2026

The NCBA Great Rift Valley Championship, part of Kenya’s national amateur golf calendar, brought together leading amateur golfers from across the country to compete over three competitive rounds on one of Kenya’s most iconic championship courses. The event delivered a high standard of play and a closely contested leaderboard.

Kevin Anyien emerged as the overall winner following an outstanding performance across the three rounds, finishing with a total score of 220 (–8). His consistency and composure throughout the weekend proved decisive as he held off a competitive field.

Kamoza Longwe of Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club finished second with a total score of 223 (+1), while Kevin Barasa of Great Rift Valley Golf Resort claimed third place on 225 (+2).

This year’s championship featured a total prize fund of Ksh 48,400, underscoring the continued commitment by NCBA and Great Rift Valley Lodge to support the growth and competitiveness of amateur golf in Kenya.

Johannesburg, South Africa | 7 February 2026

Kenya’s amateur golfers concluded their campaign at the 2026 Africa Amateur Championship, held at the historic Royal Johannesburg Golf Club East Course, gaining valuable experience competing against Africa’s top amateur players.

The championship was won in dominant fashion by South Africa’s Jack Buchanan, who finished at 21-under-par. A three-way tie for second place at 15-under-par featured South Africans JL de Bruin, Charl Barnard, and Ivan Verster.

Kenyan Leaderboard Highlights

Kenya fielded an eight-player team. Their final standings were:

Player To Par Total Score Position
Adel Balala – (Player to par) +5, (Score) 293, (Position) T21

John Lejirma – (Player to par) +7, (Score) 295, (Position) T24

Michael Karanga – (Player to par) +13, (Score) 301, (Position) T29

Daniel Kiragu – (Player to par) +14, (Score) 302, (Position) T30

Josphat Rono – (Player to par) +16, (Score) 304, (Position) T33

Elvis Muigua – (Player to par) +22, (Score) 310, (Position) T42

Elly Barno – (Player to par) +14, (Score) 158, (Position) (cut)MC

Dennis Maara – (Player to par) +25, (Score) 169, (Position) (cut)MC

All Kenyan players gained critical exposure to high-level continental competition. Their participation provides valuable benchmarking experience for future international tournaments.

Player Reflections

John Lejirma highlighted the intensity of the field and the learning opportunity:

“The level of competitive golf being played here has really made me work hard. Getting the chance to compete in such a prestigious tournament is a dream come true.”

He also noted the motivation of competing in South Africa:

“Seeing the quality and depth of the South African players shows exactly where you need to be as a golfer.”

Looking Ahead

The Africa Amateur Championship continues to provide Kenyan golfers with a platform to compete against the best amateurs in Africa. KGU remains committed to strengthening pathways for Kenyan players through structured development programs and international exposure.

About the Africa Amateur Championship

Now in its third edition, the Africa Amateur Championship is one of Africa’s premier elite amateur golf events. It provides a pathway to the global stage, with the champion earning exemptions into The 154th Open Championship and The Amateur Championship. Hosted at the historic Royal Johannesburg Golf Club, the tournament offers high-level international exposure and benchmarking opportunities for emerging talent across the continent.

Nyeri, Kenya – February 1, 2026

Against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kenya, Rafael Leming’ani delivered a composed and consistent performance to claim the 2026 NCBA Mt. Kenya Open Championship title at Nyeri Golf Club.

Representing Ruiru Sports Club, Leming’ani posted a three-round total of 214 (-2), following rounds of 72, 69, and 73. His steady play under pressure secured him a one-stroke victory and a winner’s prize of KES 82,400.

A Tightly Contested Finish
The battle for the title went down to the final stretch, with Jacques Byiringiro of Kigali Golf Resort & Villas finishing just one shot back at 215 (-1) after rounds of 69, 73, and 73.

Third place went to Amos Odongo of Golf Park Golf Club, who carded 220 (+4) to round out the podium.

🏆 Top 3 Results – 2026 Championship

Rafael Leming’ani (Ruiru Sports Club) – 214 (-2)

Jacques Byiringiro (Kigali Golf Resort & Villas) – 215 (-1)

Amos Odongo (Golf Park Golf Club) – 220 (+4)

Showcasing Regional Talent
This year’s edition attracted 78 players from clubs across Kenya and the wider East African region, highlighting the growing competitiveness and depth of the amateur golf circuit. The event once again demonstrated the strength of emerging talent alongside seasoned elite amateurs.

Following the prize-giving ceremony, Leming’ani expressed gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, and hosts for delivering a well-run championship. He also acknowledged the support of his club and praised the camaraderie shared among competitors throughout the week.