Media OutReach Newswire 
Ronald Karauri,CEO,SportPesa(photo;pictured in a past interview(photo;courtesy)
SportPesa has pledged Ksh. 20 million in sponsorship for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open, deepening its presence in Kenya’s sports industry and extending its investment portfolio into elite golf.
The sponsorship will power the 57th edition of the tournament, a marquee event on the DP World Tour and one of Africa’s most distinguished golf championships. The Magical Kenya Open has steadily grown into a global sporting showcase, drawing top-tier golfers, international media and tourism interest to Nairobi.
The partnership was unveiled at Karen Country Club, the tournament’s traditional host venue, where SportPesa signaled its intention to build a long-term relationship with the sport.
“This is our grand entry into golf, and we are going to keep doing this for years to come,” said SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri. “The Magical Kenya Open provides an opportunity to support world-class competition while elevating Kenya’s reputation as a destination for premier sporting events.”
Strengthening Kenya’s Global Standing
The 2026 tournament is expected to attract 144 players competing for an increased prize purse of USD 2.7 million, further boosting its competitiveness on the international circuit.
Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) Chairman Patrick Obath described the sponsorship as a timely boost for the tournament’s ambitions.
“We are pleased to welcome SportPesa as the official gaming and betting partner for the Magical Kenya Open 2026. Their involvement strengthens our ability to deliver a high-quality tournament and reinforces Kenya’s position on the global golfing calendar,” Obath said.
The Magical Kenya Open has become a strategic platform for promoting Brand Kenya, facilitating international partnerships and showcasing the country’s capacity to host major global events.
Ten Kenyan golfers are expected to compete in the 2026 edition, among them Justus Madoya, Dismas Indiza, Isaiah Otuke and Jacob Okello. Okello’s runner-up finish at Muthaiga in 1998 remains the best result ever achieved by a Kenyan in the tournament.
KOGL Commercial Director Ronald Meru emphasized the role of corporate backing in sustaining the event’s upward trajectory.
“In golf, success requires discipline, preparation and strong partnerships. With SportPesa’s support, we are laying the groundwork for continued growth and enhanced international prestige,” Meru said.
Broader Multi-Sport Strategy
The investment in golf comes weeks after SportPesa unveiled a Ksh. 120 million multi-sport sponsorship covering rallying, boxing and rugby. The company also maintains a Ksh. 1.12 billion title sponsorship of the SportPesa League and supports football clubs including Gor Mahia FC, Murang’a SEAL and Shabana FC.
Chief Commercial Officer Jason Gibson noted that Kenya is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for international sport across multiple disciplines.
“We are proud to support events that strengthen Kenya’s global competitiveness and contribute to the growth of the sports industry,” Gibson said.
With fresh corporate backing and a rising prize purse, the 2026 Magical Kenya Open is set to deliver another high-profile chapter in Kenya’s sporting calendar.
