84 golfers from across Africa and beyond are set to tee off in the Betika Masters tournaments, the seventh and eighth legs of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, taking place at Vetlab Sports Club from November 2 to 4 and at Limuru Country Club from November 9th to 11th, 2025.
The doubleheader, backed by Betika as title sponsor, has attracted a strong field of elite amateur and professional golfers from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi, India, and the United States, all competing for a share of the Sh2 million prize purse in each leg and crucial Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points.
The Kenyan contingent will feature a blend of the country’s top amateurs and experienced professionals, led by John Lejirma, the newly crowned Johnnie Walker Classic champion, and Michael Karanga, the reigning Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) Series winner.
Lejirma, who recently beat professional Njoroge Kibugu in a sudden-death playoff at Royal Nairobi Golf Club earlier this month to claim his maiden Sunshine Development Tour title, said he is looking forward to continuing his good run.
“Just fresh from winning at my home club, it’s been a tremendous journey so far, full of lessons, growth, and belief. Every leg of the Sunshine Development Tour has pushed me to become better, both mentally and technically. My goal heading into Vetlab and Limuru is to maintain the momentum and stay true to my game plan,” he said.
He added, “Nothing has changed on my end. I’ve just been fine-tuning all aspects of my game, from my long shots to my short game, and I feel ready. These events mean a lot to us as players because they’re helping us gain confidence and experience at a professional level. For me, it’s all about staying patient, trusting the process, and giving my best on every shot.”
Karanja, who has consistently made the cut in three of his four tour appearances so far, echoed similar sentiments, praising the Sunshine Development Tour for creating meaningful opportunities for amateurs to compete and grow.
“This Tour has changed the game for us amateurs. It has given us a proper platform to test our skills against professionals from across Africa,” said Karanja, adding that playing alongside top pros challenges you to raise your standard, to stay focused, and to believe that you can also compete at the highest levels.
He divulged that for years, they played mostly within their amateur circuit, and the exposure was limited. “Now, with the Sunshine Development Tour, we’re gaining experience that helps bridge the gap between amateur and professional golf.
“I’ve learnt a lot in these past four events. I’ve made the cut in three, and I can feel that my game is growing stronger with every round. I’m trusting the process, staying disciplined, and I believe a big win is just around the corner,” he said.
Other notable Kenyan names include Dismas Indiza, winner of the Ruiru leg; two-time Tour champion Njoroge Kibugu (Thika and Nyali); Greg Snow, Mutahi Kibugu, Edwin Mudanyi, David Wakhu, C.J. Wangai, Jastas Madoya, and Nelson Simwa.
Also in the spotlight are elite junior golfers Junaid Manji, Ishan Samani, and Tsevi Soni, who will look to make their mark on the international stage.
The international lineup features strong contenders from across the region. Phillip Kasozi, Ronald Otile, Gaita Tadeo Rodell, and Abraham Ainamani lead the Ugandan contingent while Rajab Pembe, Nuru Mollel, Angel Eaton, and Isaac Wanyeche are representing Tanzania. From Rwanda are Celestin Nsanzuwera, Nsabimana Aloys, and Dusabe Felix. Others are Paul Chidale from Malawi, elite junior golfer Mitansh Thacker from India and Willy Deus from the United States.
The female line-up includes Kenya’s Naom Wafula, Jacquelyne Walter, Margaret Njoki, Joyce Wanjiru, and Tanzania’s Angel Eaton in the field, underscoring the Tour’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and diversity.
The Sunshine Development Tour is also supported by EABL through its Johnnie Walker brand, Magical Kenya, Pure Travel, and The Golf Company.
By Anita Omwenga
