Uganda’s Willy Deus overcame a tense final-round challenge to clinch his first Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing title after winning the Absa Invitational Series at Thika Greens on Friday, January 16, 2026.
The 34-year-old stayed composed to finish on five-under-par 208 after rounds of 68, 68 and 72, edging out Kenya’s Njoroge Kibugu and David Wakhu, who tied for second on four-under-par 209.
Deus, who was making only his second appearance on the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, had entered the final round tied for the lead with Kibugu.
A testing day marked by four bogeys and three birdies saw him card a one-over-par 72, enough to seal the title and the winner’s cheque of KSh 400,000.
Speaking after his breakthrough win, Deus described the victory as especially meaningful.
“It feels really good to be the champion. A win is always a win, and it’s even better when you manage to close it out after putting yourself in position,” he said.
He added that the conditions made the final round particularly demanding.
“The wind was strong and the course was tough. I also had a few unlucky bounces that put me in difficult positions, so it wasn’t easy.”
Deus credited his improved mental approach for helping him through the pressure moments.
“I’ve worked a lot on my mental game this year. I’m much calmer now, and that made a big difference. To come to Kenya and get my first professional win here is very special.”
Kibugu posted a level-par final round, mixing four birdies with four bogeys to finish joint second.
Wakhu mounted a strong early charge with birdies on the opening two holes to briefly take the lead, but dropped shots on holes 12 and 16 before a double bogey on the 18th saw him settle for a share of second place.
Both Kibugu and Wakhu earned KSh 179,350.
Muthaiga Golf Club’s Greg Snow and Uganda’s Ronald Rugumayo finished tied for third on three-under-par 210, each walking away with KSh 94,800.
The ninth leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing attracted 75 players competing for a KSh 2 million prize purse, as well as valuable OWGR, WAGR and Safari Tour Order of Merit points crucial for qualification to the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
The tour now heads to Karen Country Club for the tenth and final leg of the season, the second and last event under the Absa Invitational Series.