The 2026 Magical Kenya Open has received a major boost of KES 10 million from leading telco Safaricom to support the event, scheduled to take place from Thursday, 19th to Sunday, 22nd February at Karen Country Club.
The sponsorship comprises KES 9 million in-kind support as the official technology and connectivity partner, with an additional KES 1 million in cash dedicated to the Beat the Pro challenge for junior golfers. The in-kind contribution will provide reliable, high speed, and scalable connectivity throughout the tournament. This includes a state-of-the-art media centre, enabling seamless global broadcasting, real time scoring, and efficient event operations to deliver a truly world class sporting experience.
“For the past 18 years, we have been part of the Magical Kenya Open and have remained a committed partner of this prestigious event. This enduring partnership reflects our dedication to developing talent and growing the game of golf in Kenya,” said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom CEO. “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.”
The Beat the Pro tournament is a key highlight of the Magical Kenya Open, offering junior and amateur golfers a rare opportunity to compete alongside professionals on the same stage. Through this initiative, Safaricom continues to support platforms that bridge grassroots participation with elite competition, reinforcing its commitment to talent development and the growth of golf in Kenya.
Beyond the tournament, Safaricom has played a big role in nurturing local golf talent through its continued engagement with the Professional Golfers of Kenya (PGK) Equator Tour. The PGK Equator Tour remains a key development and qualification pathway for Kenyan professional golfers aiming to compete at elite levels, including the Magical Kenya Open.
The 2026 Magical Kenya Open has attracted 144 players from around the world, including 15 Kenyans (10 professionals and 5 amateurs) competing for the top prize, with a total purse of $2,700,000.
Some of the key players set to battle for the top prize include South Africa’s Jacques Kruyswijk, who will be aiming to defend his title after his 2025 victory at Muthaiga. Other notable contenders include the 2024, 2023, and 2022 Magical Kenya Open champions: Darius van Driel, Jorge Campillo, and Wu Ashun, respectively.
The 10 Kenyan professionals confirmed for the 2026 MKO include Safaricom sponsored Samuel Chege and Mutahi Kibugu, as well as Greg Snow, David Wakhu, Njoroge Kibugu, Dismas Indiza, Daniel Nduva, Edwin Mudanyi, CJ Wangai, and Jastas Madoya. These players qualified for the Kenya Open through outstanding performances on the PGK Equator Tour, which concluded in January at Royal Nairobi Golf Club.
This year’s tournament will also feature elite amateurs and juniors, including Michael Karanga, Lejirma John, Jay Sandhu, Shashwat Harish, and Junaid Manji. Reserve professional players include Mohit Mediratta, Kenya Railways’ Mike Kisia, Eric Ooko, John Karichu, and Isaiah Otuke.
The Magical Kenya Open is part of the DP World Tour calendar for professional golfers worldwide. The tournament brings together top international golfers and Kenya’s best professionals, offering a unique platform for local talent while promoting Kenya as a leading destination for world class sporting events.
