The government has officially handed over the national flag to Team Kenya as they prepare for the Africa Region IV Golf Championship.
The event will take place from October 4 to 6 at the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas in Rwanda.
Kenya, the defending champions, will face tough competition from Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, Seychelles, Reunion, and hosts Rwanda.
On Tuesday morning, Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Eng. Peter Tum, met with Team Kenya at his office.
The team is composed of Kenya’s top amateur golfers—John Lejirma, Michael Karanga, Elvis Muigua, and Adel Balala—who will represent the nation in Kigali.
They will be accompanied by Kenya Golf Union (KGU) Vice Chairman and Tournaments Director, Chris Kinuthia.
During the flag-handing ceremony, PS Tum highlighted the importance of establishing a strong development pathway for golf to ensure the sport’s long-term growth in Kenya.
“We are fully committed to supporting the team and advancing golf in the country,” Tum said.
He also expressed his intention to explore funding for a professional golf league in collaboration with the Kenya Golf Federation, stressing the need for a clear progression path for Kenya’s talented amateurs.
Kenya Golf Federation Chairman, Philip Ochola, said Kenya is keen to host the Africa Golf Confederation offices.
“This would not only boost our local golfing community but also establish Kenya as a leading hub for golf development in the region,” Ochola said.
The team is set to depart for Rwanda on Wednesday, eager to build on their previous successes in the Africa Region IV Championship.
Supported by Kenya Golf Union (KGU), Team Kenya is determined to excel and bring the trophy home.
This championship represents a crucial opportunity for the team to showcase their talents on a continental stage.
Over the past month, the players have undergone intense training under National Team Coach John Van Liefland, sharpening their skills for the tournament.
Lejirma will serve as the team captain.
“I’m confident the team is in excellent shape, and we’re ready to bring the trophy back home,” Lejirma stated.
All four players are currently dominating the 2024 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) series.
Karanga of Kiambu Golf Club leads with 693 points, followed by Lejirma of Kenya Railway Golf Club with 622 points.
Muigua, also from Kiambu Golf Club, is third with 415.5 points, while Balala of Nyali Golf and Country Club holds fourth place with 272 points.