Rwanda’s Nsanzuwera Targets Sunshine Tour Triumph on Home Turf

Celestin Nsanzuwera takes it all in after sinking his last putt to win the SunDev East Africa Johnnie Walker Classic in Diani. Photo/IMG

Rwanda’s leading golfer, Celestin Nsanzuwera, is banking on home advantage as he prepares for the SportsBiz Africa Golf Championship, set for September 3–5 at Kigali Golf Resort & Villas.

The event marks the fifth leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing.

Nsanzuwera has been one of the standout performers in the inaugural Swing, highlighted by his victory at the SunDev East Africa Johnnie Walker Classic in Diani, where he edged Kenya’s veteran Dismas Indiza in a tense final-round duel.

That win catapulted him to the top of the Order of Merit standings with 579 points, ahead of Kenya’s Njoroge Kibugu and Indiza.

Nsanzuwera has also clinched the Q-School qualifier at Great Rift Valley earlier this year, underlining his status as one of East Africa’s rising golf stars.

Now, he is sharpening his short game and course management to secure a second Tour title.

“My focus has been on consistency and putting,” Nsanzuwera said.

Rwandan pro Celestin Nsanzuwera celebrates with fellow golfers after clinching victory at the SunDev East Africa Johnnie Walker Classic in Diani. Photo/IMG

For Nsanzuwera, playing on familiar ground at Kigali Golf Resort and Villas brings added motivation.

“Playing in Kigali gives me extra motivation, it’s special to compete in front of my people. I know the course well, but ultimately, it comes down to execution. The home support will be a huge motivation for me to perform at my best.”

The Rwandan acknowledges the depth of competition but remains confident:

“My goal is to be in contention on the final day. More than winning, I want to keep building consistency and prove that East African golfers can challenge at the top level.”

Reflecting on the impact of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, Nsanzuwera described the opportunity as transformative for his career and for regional golf.

“It means a lot—it’s a dream come true for many of us. Having OWGR points on offer is a big step forward for golf in this region because it opens doors to bigger events worldwide. Being part of this Tour feels like laying a foundation not only for my own career but for future generations of East African golfers.”

The 54-hole tournament is presented by SportsBiz Africa in partnership with EABL’s Johnnie Walker, Kigali Golf Resort and Villas, and Pure Travel, drawing professionals and amateurs from Africa, Europe, and North America.

With USD25,000 in prize money and crucial Order of Merit, OWGR and WAGR points at stake, the championship promises intense competition.

Rwandan pro Celestin Nsanzuwera proudly displays his trophy after winning the SunDev East Africa Johnnie Walker Classic in Diani. Photo/IMG

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