The 2026 Magical Kenya Open has received a KES 10 million sponsorship boost from Safaricom, reinforcing the telecommunications firm’s long-standing support for one of Kenya’s premier international sporting events.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from 19 to 22 February at Karen Country Club, bringing together 144 players from around the world to compete for a total prize purse of $2.7 million.
Safaricom’s sponsorship comprises KES 9 million in-kind support as the official technology and connectivity partner, alongside an additional KES 1 million in cash dedicated to the Beat the Pro challenge targeting junior golfers.
Technology Backbone for a Global Tournament
As part of its in-kind contribution, Safaricom will deliver high-speed, scalable connectivity infrastructure throughout the tournament. This includes setting up a state-of-the-art media centre to support seamless global broadcasting, real-time scoring, and efficient event operations.
The technology backbone is expected to enhance the overall tournament experience for players, spectators, and global audiences, positioning the event as a world-class sporting spectacle.
“For the past 18 years, we have been part of the Magical Kenya Open and have remained a committed partner of this prestigious event,” said Peter Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer of Safaricom.
“This enduring partnership reflects our dedication to developing talent and growing the game of golf in Kenya. As part of our commitment this year, we are delighted to provide KES 9 million worth of world-class connectivity and media infrastructure, alongside KES 1 million to support our junior golfers through the Beat the Pro tournament.”
Investing in Junior and Amateur Golf
The Beat the Pro challenge remains one of the tournament’s key highlights, offering junior and amateur golfers the opportunity to compete alongside seasoned professionals on the same stage.
Through the additional KES 1 million allocation, Safaricom aims to strengthen grassroots development and bridge the gap between amateur participation and elite professional competition.
Beyond the flagship tournament, the company has continued to nurture local talent through engagement with the Professional Golfers of Kenya Equator Tour.
The PGK Equator Tour serves as a development and qualification pathway for Kenyan professional golfers aspiring to compete at elite levels, including the Magical Kenya Open. The 2026 qualification series concluded in January at Royal Nairobi Golf Club, determining the local professionals who secured slots in this year’s tournament.
Kenyan Representation on the Global Stage
A total of 15 Kenyans, comprising 10 professionals and five amateurs, are set to feature in the 2026 edition.
Among the confirmed Kenyan professionals are Safaricom-sponsored players Samuel Chege and Mutahi Kibugu, alongside Greg Snow, David Wakhu, Njoroge Kibugu, Dismas Indiza, Daniel Nduva, Edwin Mudanyi, CJ Wangai, and Jastas Madoya.
These professionals earned their places through strong performances on the PGK Equator Tour, underscoring the importance of structured development pathways in elevating Kenyan golf.
Elite amateurs and juniors expected to compete include Michael Karanga, Lejirma John, Jay Sandhu, Shashwat Harish, and Junaid Manji. Reserve professionals include Mohit Mediratta, Mike Kisia, Eric Ooko, John Karichu, and Isaiah Otuke.
International Line-Up and Title Defense
The 2026 Magical Kenya Open has drawn a competitive international field, including defending champion Jacques Kruyswijk of South Africa, who will be aiming to retain his title following his 2025 victory.
Other former champions expected to compete include Darius van Driel, Jorge Campillo, and Wu Ashun, winners of the 2024, 2023, and 2022 editions respectively.
The tournament forms part of the DP World Tour calendar, attracting elite professional golfers from around the globe and enhancing Kenya’s visibility as a host of high-profile sporting events.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The Magical Kenya Open plays a strategic role in sports tourism, drawing international players, officials, media, and fans to Nairobi. The event contributes to hospitality, aviation, and service-sector activity during the tournament period.
As part of the DP World Tour, the competition provides global broadcast exposure for Kenya, reinforcing the country’s positioning as a destination for world-class sporting events.
Corporate sponsorships such as Safaricom’s also underscore the growing intersection between sports, technology, and brand engagement, with digital infrastructure increasingly central to delivering global sporting experiences.
Long-Term Partnership
Safaricom’s 18-year association with the Magical Kenya Open highlights sustained private-sector backing for golf development in Kenya.
By combining technology infrastructure support with grassroots investment, the company’s sponsorship reflects a broader strategy of aligning corporate brand presence with youth development and elite competition.
As the 2026 edition tees off at Karen Country Club, organizers will be banking on strong local representation, global participation, and seamless digital operations to deliver another successful chapter in Kenya’s flagship golf tournament.
