By KPC Sports Reporter
The third leg of the Sunshine Development Tour- East Africa Swing tees off next week at Nyali Golf and Country Club in Mombasa, welcoming a strong field of 87 golfers from eight African nations.
The 54-hole tournament, slated for August 4–6, 2025, promises top-tier action, with elite amateurs and seasoned professionals competing for a Ksh 2 million prize purse.
Players will also chase valuable Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points—critical for those aiming to climb the global leaderboard.
Countries represented include Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, and Zimbabwe, showcasing the tournament’s pan-African appeal.
After 36 holes, a cut will determine the top 30 players (plus ties) advancing to the final round. Among Tanzania’s contingent are Nuru Mollel, Isaac Wanyeche, Abdalla Yusuf, Isaka Dunia, Fadhyl Nkya, and Rajaan Idd Pembe.
Uganda features Hussein Bagalana, Abraham Ainamani, and Ronald Rugumayo, while Rwanda’s squad includes standout Celestin Nsanzuwera—who secured a runner-up finish at Thika—alongside Dusabe Jules, Felix Dusabe, Aloys Nsabimana, Ndidabahizi Didas, and Hitayezu Jean D’amour.
Additional competitors include Salum Nkurunziza (Burundi), Paul Chidale (Malawi), Olapade Sunday (Nigeria), Liberty Gumisaa (Zimbabwe), and Erick Kwame Ligbidi (Ghana).
Kenya’s hopes rest on Tour leader Dismas Indiza, fresh off his dramatic playoff win in Ruiru.
The Kakamega Sports Club pro shared his confidence heading into Nyali: “I’ve played at Nyali many times—it’s a great test of ball control, especially with the wind. My game is in good shape.”
“The goal remains consistency and focus. This tour gives us something to chase, and I’m motivated heading to the Coast.”
Learning experience
Joining Indiza are Thika Greens champion Njoroge Kibugu and top-ranked amateur John Lejirma, who narrowly missed victory in Ruiru.
“Ruiru was a learning experience. I had a strong start but couldn’t close it out. Heading into Nyali, I feel sharper mentally and physically. This tour is giving amateurs a professional platform and ranking opportunities. I’m fully focused,” said Lejirma.
Among the standout names is Rwanda’s Nsanzuwera, who earned significant OWGR points at Thika and Ruiru and remains the highest-ranked non-Kenyan in the field.
Meanwhile, the women’s competition sees Naom Wafula make her professional debut.
The Vipingo Ridge talent, formerly Kenya Ladies Golf Union Golfer of the Year, will be joined by amateurs Joyce Wanjiru and Margaret Njoki.
“This is a dream I’ve worked toward for years,” Wafula said.
“Turning professional was a big decision, but this tour is the perfect platform to compete, grow, and challenge myself.”
As the only golf tour in East and Central Africa offering OWGR points, the Sunshine Development Tour is a crucial stepping stone for players targeting global circuits and Olympic qualification.
After Nyali, the Tour shifts to Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, hosting the fourth leg from August 9–11 to complete the Coast Region double-header.