Kenya’s golf fraternity is celebrating a landmark moment after rising stars Njoroge Kibugu and Naomi Wafula earned full playing cards on the Sunshine Tour and Sunshine Ladies Tour—the first time Kenyan golfers have achieved the feat.
The breakthrough marks a major step for a sport that has long struggled for recognition, funding, and structured professional pathways.
It also highlights the impact of a deliberate, multi-year push spearheaded by the Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat, working alongside key corporate and sporting partners.
Kenya Vision 2030 Director General Kenneth Mwige said the athletes’ achievements demonstrate what long-term investment in talent can deliver.
“What Njoroge and Naomi have achieved is not just a personal triumph—it is a national milestone,” Mwige said. “This is the clearest proof yet that when Kenya commits to supporting its sportsmen and women consistently, they compete and win at the highest levels.”
A Turning Point in 2021
The turning point came in 2021, when the Vision 2030 Secretariat launched a programme under its Social Pillar to address long-standing barriers faced by local golfers—limited funding, inadequate training resources, and minimal international exposure.
The initiative provided direct financial sponsorships, support for travel and training, performance incentives, and branding assistance that helped athletes attract additional backing.
Veterans and young talents alike benefitted, including Mutahi Kibugu, Dismas Indiza, Eric Ooko, Samuel Njoroge and Simon Ngige, among others who competed in events such as the Magical Kenya Open and the Savannah Classic.
For many, it was the first time they could fully focus on their craft.
Breakthrough Season
The investment bore fruit in 2025. Kibugu and Wafula excelled during the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, which Kenya co-hosted for the first time.
Their strong performances secured them full tour cards and significantly boosted Kenya’s international golfing profile.
Wafula’s story, in particular, has inspired young girls across the country. She becomes the first Kenyan woman to secure a Sunshine Ladies Tour card.
Mwige said their success underscores the importance of creating a viable pathway for elite athletes.
“This is what structured development looks like,” he said. “We are seeing the results of patience, planning, and believing in our young people. Kenya’s future in golf is bright—this is just the beginning.”
A Growing Ecosystem
Vision 2030’s efforts have been complemented by support from partners including NCBA Bank, Absa Bank Kenya, Kenya Open Golf Limited, and golf academies and clubs across the country.
These institutions have invested in junior programmes, training infrastructure and athlete development, creating a stronger foundation for future golfers.
A New Era for Kenyan Golf
As Kibugu and Wafula prepare to join elite competitors on the continental stage, they carry more than national pride—they represent a new generation of Kenyan golfers who now see global success as attainable.
“Kenyan golf has come of age,” Mwige said. “We are entering a new era defined by opportunity, professionalism and belief. Our young golfers now know that the world stage is within their reach.”
Their elevation marks what many in the sport are calling the dawn of a new chapter—one built on partnership, investment, and the power of dreams finally within grasp.
