Betting company Betika has pledged KES 3.2 million to support five elite Kenyan golfers in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
The selected group includes promising amateurs Michael Karanga and John Lejirma, along with experienced professionals CJ Wangai, Samuel Njoroge, and Justus Madoya.
This quintet will represent Kenya at the DP World Tour competition scheduled from February 19 to 22, 2026, at the Karen Country Club.
The Magical Kenya Open continues to stand as one of Africa’s premier golf exhibitions and an important fixture on the DP World Tour schedule.
The KES 3.2 million allocation from Betika will cover tournament preparations, endorsements, and logistical arrangements, enabling the players to perform at their best against a formidable international lineup.
This represents the third consecutive year that the company has provided sponsorship for Kenyan participants in this tournament.
Betika Group CEO Mutua Mutava stated that the investment demonstrates the company’s dedication to developing local talent.
‘By concentrating our resources on these five exceptional athletes, we are providing specialized support to golfers who have demonstrated consistent performance and excellence throughout the season,’ he noted.
‘Kenyan golf possesses significant potential, and we are honored to stand behind our players as they compete against the world’s finest on their home turf.’
The team approaches the tournament with momentum from an outstanding 2025 season. Lejirma enters as the current KAGC Series champion following a dominant year featuring nine victories, while Karanga achieved a milestone as the first amateur to qualify for the 2025 MKO and clinched several significant amateur titles.
Among the professional contingent, Njoroge delivered a standout performance with his maiden victory at the PGK Equator Tour in Diani, Wangai recently established a new course record on the Sunshine Development Tour, and Madoya delivered notable results across the East African circuit, including a high placement in Rwanda.
Representing the sponsored golfers, Karanga mentioned that the financial backing has alleviated monetary concerns.
‘The objective is not merely to participate but to compete at the elite level. With this assistance, we can dedicate our full attention to our performance,’ he expressed, while voicing optimism that a Kenyan golfer will present a credible challenge for the championship.
The 2026 Magical Kenya Open anticipates attracting over 25,000 spectators and a complete field of 144 competitors representing more than 30 nations.
Kenya will assemble the largest team with 18 players, with South Africa trailing with 17 participants led by the defending champion, Jacques Kruyswijk.