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Golf has emerged as a game-changer for Kenya’s Vision 2030, with the Magical Kenya Open (MKO) and the Magical Kenya Ladies Open (MKLO) now at the heart of driving economic growth and global recognition, this is according to the director general of Kenya Vision 2030 Kenneth Mwige.

Speaking during the NCBA 2025 golf activities launch earlier this week at Railways Golf Club, Mwige noted that these world-class events have propelled local players onto the international stage, but the real challenge lies ahead: ensuring that Kenya’s golf infrastructure, players alongside the caddies get the support they need to compete at the highest level.

“We must prioritise supporting our local talent. The reality is that our Kenyan golfers, who represent us globally, need more than just exposure—they need investment, structured training and access to international competition to hone their skills and gain recognition. These athletes are not just competitors; they are ambassadors of Kenya,” he stated.

The Vision 2030 secretariat boss also noted that the Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat (VDS) is spearheading initiatives to elevate Kenya’s profile as a global sports powerhouse, with golf at the centre of this transformation.

He expressed that, at the moment, Kenya is stepping up its game on the global sports stage, particularly in golf, through a strategic push backed by the Vision 2030 framework.

That the government has placed sports at the forefront of national development, with golf emerging as a key driver of socio-economic growth and global recognition.

He went further to mention the milestones the country has achieved through golfing, stating, “The country, boasting Africa’s second-largest number of golf courses, has already hosted world-class events like the Magical Kenya Open and the Magical Kenya Ladies Open, gaining international exposure while showcasing local talent.”

Additionally, Mwige mentioned that through Vision 2030, golf is being promoted not only as a sport but as a significant avenue for tourism employment, and international prestige.

“The inclusion of the Magical Kenya Open in the prestigious European Tour has expanded the event’s global reach, drawing attention from over 600 million viewers on weekdays and over a billion on weekends. This strategic move positions Kenya as a premier golfing destination,” he stated.

Mwige also called upon the government and stakeholders to come together to support golfers on their journey averring that “the success of Kenya’s golf program is a collective responsibility.”