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.
