- SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri has pinpointed a key factor that could draw more Kenyan players and attract a broader fanbase to golf in the country.
- His words follow SportPesa’s bold entry into the golf scene, courtesy of a Ksh 20 million sponsorship boost for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
- Kararuri noted that golf’s local challenge is not rooted in a lack of grassroots talent, but rather limited exposure.
SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri has identified key factors that could attract more Kenyan players and draw larger crowds into the world of golf in the country.
His vision follows SportPesa’s bold entry into the golf scene, courtesy of a Ksh. 20 million sponsorship boost for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
This partnership positions the leading online gaming firm, SportPesa, as the exclusive gaming and betting partner for the 57th edition of the prestigious tournament one of Africa’s top golf tournaments and a key fixture on the DP World Tour calendar.
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SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri identifies key drivers to elevate golf in Kenya
Speaking at the announcement ceremony on Thursday, 12th February, at the Karen Country Club, Kararuri noted that golf’s local challenge is not rooted in a lack of grassroots talent, but rather limited exposure.
He expressed optimism that SportPesa’s involvement would help bridge that gap.
We need to find a way to bring more people into golf because I think the issue with golf is that it’s not a grassroots problem. For example, if you go to my constituency, Kasarani, you’re unlikely to find someone interested in playing golf.
It might be an exposure issue, but I believe one of the things SportPesa brings into this space is greater visibility. Most of our people are into football and rugby, so when they see SportPesa investing in golf, they might become curious and venture into that space,” he said.
He added that increased visibility is the gateway to attracting more fans to the course and inspiring young players to cultivate an interest in the sport.
The question is how we bridge that gap to ensure young and upcoming golfers develop stronger interest, have access to playing facilities, and join clubs where they can gain the right exposure. It’s not something I have fully thought through yet, but it requires a clear blueprint so we can attract more talent into the game.”
Kararuri also noted the importance of cultivating local heroes and backing seasoned legends who can serve as inspiration for the next generation.
Another thing that works is creating more heroes and celebrating our legends who can serve as the face and inspiration for the next generation. When people see someone they recognize competing at an elite level in golf, it becomes relatable. That’s what will motivate more young players to take up the sport building more stars is something we can unlock with fresh talent,” he reiterated.
Magical Kenya Open 2026
Scheduled for 19th to 22nd February 2026, the Magical Kenya Open (MKO) will see a world-class lineup of 144 elite golfers from over 25 nations competing for a massive prize purse of Ksh. 348.3 million (approximately USD 5 million).
This marks the tournament’s 57th edition as part of the DP World Tour and its return to Karen Country Club in Nairobi for the first time since 2021.
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Beyond the electric atmosphere fans anticipate and the expected title defence from South Africa’s Jacques Kruyswijk, who claimed victory at Muthaiga Golf Club in 2025, Kenya will be proudly represented by 10 professional and amateur golfers, including Justus Madoya, Dismas Indiza, Isaiah Otuke, and Jacob Okello.
The tournament remains a cornerstone of the DP World Tour’s International Swing, acting as a springboard for a series of African events such as the South African Open and the Joburg Open.