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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.

Sigona, Kenya | January 17, 2026

Junaid Ayaz Manji of Sigona Golf Club produced a commanding three-day performance to win the 2026 NCBA Sigona Bowl, as the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) officially ushered in the 2026 competitive golf season at Sigona Golf Club.

Playing off a handicap of +3.7, Manji the reigning Nairobi District Championship (NDC) champion, posted an impressive aggregate score of 213, finishing top of a highly competitive field of 150 golfers drawn from Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and India. The victory underlined his excellent early-season form and reaffirmed his status as one of Kenya’s leading amateur golfers.

Elvis Muigua of Windsor Golf and Country Club finished second with a total score of 217, continuing his strong run of form following his recent NDC success. Dennis Maara of Limuru Country Club completed the podium in third place on 219, capping an impressive showing at Sigona.

The NCBA Sigona Bowl once again lived up to its reputation as one of the flagship events on the KGU calendar, offering a high-quality competitive platform and valuable ranking points early in the season. The tournament featured a prize purse of KSh 115,600, rewarding consistency and excellence across the three rounds of play.

Speaking at the event, KGU officials noted the importance of the Sigona Bowl in setting the tone for the season and providing competitive exposure for elite amateur golfers across the region.

The Kenya Golf Union congratulates Junaid Ayaz Manji on his outstanding victory and extends its appreciation to NCBA for their continued partnership and commitment to the growth and development of competitive golf in Kenya and the wider region.

Kenya Golf Union joined officials, members, and young golfers at the official launch of the new putting green at the Public Service Club, marking an important milestone in the growth of golf in Kenya.

Speaking at the event, KGU Chairman Chris Kinuthia highlighted the significance of the facility:

“This is more than just the unveiling of a facility; it is a clear demonstration of commitment, vision, and passion for the game of golf.”

The new putting green provides a space where beginners can build confidence, seasoned players can refine their skills, and the wider community can enjoy golf as both a sport and a lifestyle. It aligns with KGU’s mission to promote, nurture, and grow the game of golf across the country, ensuring accessibility and participation at all levels.

The KGU Chairman also thanked parents and guardians for supporting Junior Golf, run by the Junior Golf Foundation. The program allows children aged 21 and below to access golf facilities nationwide for just 1,000 KES per year, creating opportunities for the next generation of golfers.

Looking ahead, the planned chip-and-putt area will host competitions that are recognized internationally, offering a platform to develop talent and encourage participation among juniors and beginners.

“The Kenya Golf Union remains committed to initiatives that deepen the love of the game, encourage participation, and raise standards of golf across Kenya,” said KGU Chairman.

He congratulated everyone involved; club officials, members, partners, parents, and the entire golf community, for bringing this vision to life.

The Public Service Club’s new putting green is now ready to serve as a hub for learning, practice, and enjoyment, shaping the future of golf in Kenya.

Antananarivo, Madagascar | 29 November 2025

Team Kenya successfully defended its crown at the 2025 Africa Region IV Golf Championship, reaffirming its dominance in African amateur golf after a tightly contested three-day tournament in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The championship, held at the Golf du Rova Luxury Hotel, saw Team Kenya clinch victory with a combined score of 642, narrowly edging out Uganda, who finished just two strokes behind at 644. The result once again highlighted Kenya’s depth of talent, competitive discipline, and consistency on the regional stage.
The victorious team was led by Captain John Lejirma, alongside Michael Karanga, Elvis Muigua, and Junaid Ayaz Manji. Each player contributed crucial performances throughout the tournament, combining skill and resilience to secure Kenya’s back-to-back title.

Standout Performances;
– John Lejirma (Team Captain) delivered a commanding display, finishing the championship 7-under par to lead the field.
– Elvis Muigua recorded a strong +2, maintaining steady form across all rounds.
– Michael Karanga closed at +3, playing a key role in the team’s success.
– Junaid Ayaz Manji, competing in his senior regional debut, posted a solid +5, marking a promising step forward in his international career.

Kenya is set to mount a formidable title defence at the Africa Region IV Golf Championship, scheduled for 25th–29th November 2025 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The Kenya Golf Union (KGU) unveiled a powerful four-man squad during the prize-giving ceremony of the NCBA Nanyuki Open, marking the beginning of Kenya’s campaign to retain continental dominance.

The Africa Region IV Championship is one of the most prestigious amateur team events on the continent, bringing together the region’s top golfers for a rigorous test of skill, endurance, and national pride. Kenya enters the championship as the defending champions after a historic victory last year in Kigali.

A Team Built for Victory

KGU announced a blend of experience, pedigree, and rising youth talent:

• John Lejirma (Captain) – Kenya’s reigning No. 1 and currently ranked 74th on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR). Lejirma has enjoyed an exceptional season, winning seven KAGC titles and anchoring Kenya’s success in regional events.

• Michael Karanga – Ranked 70th WAGR, Kenya’s highest-ranked amateur and the season’s standout performer. Karanga has captured five major titles in 2025, including the Kenya Amateur Match Play Championship, which earned him a coveted spot at the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.

• Elvis Muigua – Ranked 418th WAGR and a three-time champion this year. Known for his power and calm under pressure, Muigua was part of the trio that secured last year’s win in Kigali.

• Junaid Ayaz Manji – Kenya’s top junior golfer and captain of the national junior team at the All Africa Junior Golf Team Championship. Ranked 822nd WAGR, Junaid has two titles this season and brings youthful energy and elite competitive discipline to the team.

Leadership and Confidence

KGU Chairman – Chris Kinuthia expressed optimism, saying:

“This team reflects the strength and depth of Kenyan golf at both senior and junior levels. We are confident they will rise to the occasion and bring the trophy back home.”

Strengthening Kenya’s Continental Footprint

With the combination of experience, ranking strength, and emerging youth leadership, Kenya enters the Africa Region IV Championship as a top contender. The team’s preparation, chemistry, and previous success make them one of the favorites to dominate in Madagascar.

As the countdown to Antananarivo begins, the golfing fraternity anticipates another defining moment for Kenyan golfone that could further cement the nation’s legacy on the African stage.

Thika, Kenya

The 2025 edition of the African High Performance Programme (AHPP) teed off in grand style at Thika Greens Golf Resort, marking another milestone in Africa’s mission to nurture elite golfing talent. Sponsored and curated by The R&A and supported locally by the Kenya Golf Union (KGU), the three-day intensive camp, held from 10th to 12th October 2025 brought together 12 of the region’s brightest junior golfers, seven boys and five girls, for a transformative journey of learning, performance, and growth.

More than just a training event, the AHPP continues to serve as a continental benchmark for youth golf development, combining world-class coaching, sports science, and mental conditioning to equip young players for success on the international stage.

Day 1: Foundation of Performance and Focus

The opening day laid a strong foundation, emphasising the core elements of elite performance; mobility, activation, swing refinement, and short-game mastery.

Under the guidance of four R&A coaches and four local professionals, players refined rhythm, balance, and swing dynamics during morning range sessions. The afternoon was dedicated to putting and short-game precision, teaching players to manage control, focus, and adaptability on the greens.

One of Kenya’s rising talent Kanana Muthomi captured the spirit of the day, sharing,

“I’m looking forward to applying these lessons at the East Africa CAACT Ladies Golf Championship in a few days.”

The holistic approach of the AHPP ensures that every player develops not only technical skill but also the strategic mindset and discipline required to compete at higher levels of the game.

Day 2: Sharpening Precision, Strategy, and Competitive Edge

Day 2 saw Africa’s next generation of golfers dive deeper into the technical and mental demands of competition. Morning sessions introduced CAPTO Putting Analysis and Putting Skill Training, focusing on accuracy and green-reading. These were followed by targeted Wedge Game drills, where players learned precision scoring and shot-selection techniques.

Between sessions, emphasis was placed on nutrition, hydration, and recovery, reinforcing the professional routines required for consistent peak performance. Afternoon sessions turned toward Tournament Preparation, Range Work, and On-Course Play, helping golfers refine decision-making under pressure.

The day closed with reflection and feedback, giving players a chance to internalize lessons ahead of the final session.

Final Day: Integration, Competition, and Next Steps

The closing day tied together the week’s lessons with short-game competitions, course drills, and performance challenges designed to test technical consistency and mental resilience.

Coaches emphasized the importance of self-assessment, routine building, and goal setting as players prepared to transition from training into competition. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and shared ambition, a clear signal of the bright future awaiting African golf.