The 2025 Magical Kenya Open has received a major boost after Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its premium whisky brand Johnnie Walker, announced a Ksh. 40 million sponsorship. This reaffirmation of KBL’s long-standing support underscores the tournament’s significance in the African golf calendar.
Scheduled to take place from February 20–23, 2025, at the par-71 Muthaiga Golf Club, the 56th edition of the tournament will commence with a Pro-Am event on February 19. This event, which attracts top-tier global talent, remains one of Africa’s most prestigious golf competitions. This year, 144 professional golfers will battle it out for a prize purse of $2.5 million (approximately Ksh. 320 million).
Speaking at the sponsorship announcement at Kenya Railway Golf Club, KBL Managing Director Mark Ocitti expressed pride in the company’s continued association with the event.
“We are proud to renew our partnership with the Magical Kenya Open through our premium spirit brand, Johnnie Walker. As a long-standing supporter of golf in Kenya, we are committed to providing fans with a bespoke and memorable experience at the tournament. We look forward to bringing excitement to the Tournament Village and promise fans an unforgettable time,” Ocitti stated.
Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) Tournament Director Patrick Obath commended KBL’s unwavering support, emphasizing the crucial role the sponsorship plays in ensuring a seamless event.
“We are delighted to have KBL renew its partnership with the Magical Kenya Open as the Official Alcohol Beverage Sponsor. This sponsorship will assist us in meeting key obligations, including event logistics and prize-giving. The Magical Kenya Open plays a crucial role in positioning Kenya as a premier international tourism and sporting destination. We look forward to welcoming top golfers and urge Kenyans to turn up in large numbers to support their favorites and showcase our country’s hospitality,” said Obath.
Kenya will be well-represented, fielding eight professional golfers who earned their spots through qualifiers organized by the Professional Golfers of Kenya (PGK). The lineup includes Njoroge Kibugu, Greg Snow, David Wakhu, Samuel Njoroge, Dismas Indiza, Mohit Mediratta, Riz Charania, and Edwin Mudanyi.
In the amateur category, Kenya’s top talents will also take center stage. Michael Karanga, the 2024 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) winner, will lead the charge alongside KAGC runner-up John Lejirma. Strokeplay champion William Odek, Uganda’s Matchplay champion Michael Alunga, and junior qualifier Shashwat Harish will also compete, showcasing the rising golf talent from the region.
With just months to go, excitement is building as Kenya gears up to host yet another world-class golf spectacle, with KBL’s sponsorship ensuring the event remains a highlight on the global golfing calendar.
