The NCBA Nanyuki Open made its debut on the Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) calendar in style, with top-ranked amateur Michael Karanga securing the inaugural crown at the Nanyuki Sports Club.
The event attracted 74 elite amateurs with handicaps capped at 13.5, offering a prize purse of KSh500,000 and delivering thrilling action against the spectacular backdrop of Mt. Kenya.
Karanga, currently ranked 70th on the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR), underlined his class and composure to see off a competitive chase from John Lejirma, Elvis Muigua, and Ebill Omollo.
His victory added yet another accolade to an already glittering season.
Beyond the competition, the event spotlighted Nanyuki Sports Club’s rich golfing tradition, challenging course, and panoramic views, while also offering fans a weekend of sport, community, and hospitality
During the prize-giving ceremony, the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) announced the four-man national team set to represent the country at the Africa Region IV Championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar, from 25th to 29th November 2025.
The team includes:
John Lejirma (Captain) – Kenya’s top-ranked amateur with seven KAGC titles this season, and ranked 74th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).
Michael Karanga – Ranked 70th WAGR, winner of five titles this year including the Kenya Amateur Match Play Championship, securing him a spot at the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
Elvis Muigua – Three-time champion this year, currently ranked 418th WAGR.
Junaid Ayaz Manji – Kenya’s top junior golfer, ranked 822nd WAGR, with two titles in 2025 and captain of the junior team at the All-Africa Junior Golf Team Championship.
The same trio of Lejirma, Karanga, and Muigua delivered victory for Kenya in Kigali last year. With Junaid now strengthening the side, confidence is high for a successful title defense under Coach Saleem Haji.
Speaking after the announcement, the KGU Chairman said:
“This team reflects the strength and depth of Kenyan golf at both senior and junior levels. We are confident they will rise to the occasion and bring the trophy back home.”
Karanga, celebrating both his Nanyuki Open victory and his place on the national team, added:
“Winning the inaugural NCBA Nanyuki Open is a proud moment. I’m equally honored to represent Kenya once again, and we are determined to make the country proud in Madagascar.”
With the success of the NCBA Nanyuki Open, the Kenya Golf Union and NCBA Group have set a strong foundation for the event to become a permanent fixture on the KAGC calendar, promising even greater competition and opportunities for Kenya’s golfing talent in the years to come.