KITALE, Kenya — Kenya has marked a major milestone in women’s sport after Naomi Wafula made history as the country’s first professional woman golfer to earn a playing card on a global tour, securing her place on the Sunshine Ladies Tour.
Wafula’s achievement places both Kenya and her home county of Trans Nzoia firmly on the international golfing map, breaking new ground in a sport that has long been dominated by men at the professional level.
The Sunshine Ladies Tour, based in Southern Africa, is one of the world’s recognized professional women’s golf circuits and serves as a pathway to elite global competitions.
Wafula’s qualification signals Kenya’s growing presence in international golf and highlights the expanding opportunities for women athletes from the region.
Leaders and sports stakeholders have hailed the achievement as a turning point for women’s golf in Kenya.
Wafula, a daughter of Kitale, has steadily risen through the local and regional golf ranks, earning recognition for her discipline, consistency, and competitive edge.
Her qualification for the Sunshine Ladies Tour is expected to open doors for more Kenyan women to pursue professional golf careers.
Sports development experts say her breakthrough sends a powerful message to girls across the country that professional sport, including golf, is becoming more accessible.
“This achievement is a clear signal that opportunities in sport are expanding,” said a Kenya Golf Union official.
“It is already inspiring more female golfers to consider turning professional and shaping the future of golf in Kenya and East Africa.”
Women’s participation in golf has traditionally faced challenges ranging from limited funding and sponsorship to restricted access to training facilities and competitive platforms.
Wafula’s success is being viewed as evidence that sustained investment and talent development can overcome those barriers.
At the policy level, the Sports Act and national sports development strategies emphasize gender equity and youth empowerment through sport.
Wafula’s rise aligns with these objectives, reinforcing the role of sport as both an economic and social development tool.
Her success also underscores the importance of grassroots programs and regional support structures, particularly in counties such as Trans Nzoia, which are increasingly producing athletes capable of competing at international levels.
As she prepares to compete on the Sunshine Ladies Tour, Wafula is expected to face some of the world’s most experienced professional golfers.
Supporters say her journey will be closely watched by aspiring athletes and sports administrators alike.
Well-wishers across the country have extended congratulations and prayers, expressing pride in her achievement and confidence in her future.
“We wish Naomi Wafula God’s blessings as she takes on this next challenge and continues to inspire Kenya and beyond,” read a congratulatory message from local leaders in Trans Nzoia.
With her historic qualification, Wafula has not only secured a place on a global tour but has also carved a lasting legacy as a trailblazer for Kenyan women in professional golf.