Sports Cabinet secretary Ababu Namwamba has urged more corporates to invest in local sports which will not only help the growth of sports but also spur talent nurturing and development in country.
CS announced the ministry’s sponsorship of Ksh 370 million for this year’s Magical Kenya Open golf tournament, which is scheduled to take place between the 22nd and the 25th of this month, during a speech on Tuesday at the Muthaiga Golf Club.
“We are committed to creating an enabling environment for sports organizations, both public and private to thrive. We are working on policies that encourage private-sector partnerships. These collaborations are instrumental in providing the necessary resources to organize world-class events and support our sportsmen and women in their pursuit for excellence.”said Ababu Namwamba
Absa Bank Kenya PLC announced a KES 75 million investment for the this year’s championships with KES 55 million supporting the Local Organising Committee through Kenya Open Golf Limited, while the remaining KES 20 million is allocated to enhancing the overall experience, creating memorable experiences for attendees and followers of the tournament.
Absa Bank demonstrates its dedication to advancing talent and enterprise while providing support for sports tourism by announcing this sponsorship.
Golfers from all over the world come together to compete for the title at Muthaiga Golf Club, one of the most prestigious and difficult courses in the area, during the Magical Kenya Open, which acts as a major international platform.
This year’s edition will be more than just golf, will feature the first ever in Africa golf for the disabled with 10 players from all over the world as well as a charity dinner for sports development.
In addition, a business conference is planned which will bring together government, business leaders and investors with an aim of attracting investors to Kenya, including DP World.
Speaking during the announcement ceremony, Absa Bank Kenya PLC’s Managing Director, Abdi Mohamed, emphasized the bank’s long-term commitment to elevating the tournament’s stature which goes beyond golf to creating impact across various sectors of the economy.
“As a brand, we have a long-standing sponsorship of golf in this country, which has promoted Kenya as both a sporting and a tourism destination while illuminating the remarkable stories of determination and resilience within our nation. This tournament has proven itself as a platform that showcases Kenya to the world, as a vibrant tapestry of culture, talent, and opportunity,” said Mr. Mohamed.
Mr. Mohamed further highlighted the significance of the MKO as a driving force for positive societal change saying:
“This tournament represents a story of business opportunities spanning various sectors, including transport, entertainment, hospitality, and beyond.
It serves as a cultural showcase, enriching our communities and empowering our people well aligned with our purpose of Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together … one story at a time. Additionally, we have harnessed the unique influence of sports, such as golf, to unite our stakeholders around sustainability and climate action through our Birdies for Good initiatives.”
Speaking at the same event, Mr. Patrick Obath, the Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) tournament director, expressed his appreciation for Absa’s continued support saying:
“The MKO 2024 is a platform that transcends sports and provides opportunities to enhance socio-economic and sustainability linkages around the globe. With the support of like-minded partners like Absa, we look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for players, spectators, and partners alike,” said Mr. Obath.
With over 140 top golfers from across the globe registered for this year’s event, including three regional pros, nine Kenyan professionals (Pros), and four amateurs competing for the tantalising $2 million prize fund, it promises to be an exciting display of talent. Additionally, this is the ideal time to introduce and establish genuine relationships with Kenyans who adore and follow the game.
First staged in 1967, the Kenya Open has developed into one of the most prestigious athletic tournaments in Kenya and Sub-Saharan Africa.
