The third leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing tees off next week at the coastal Nyali Golf & Country Club, drawing a vibrant field of 87 golfers from eight African nations.
Set for August 4–6, the 54-hole tournament will feature top professionals and elite amateurs from across the continent, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, and Zimbabwe.
The players will compete over three rounds, with the top 30 and ties making the cut after 36 holes.
On offer is a KSh2 million prize purse, along with valuable Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points—key incentives for players seeking to climb the global ranks.
Kenya’s Dismas Indiza, currently leading the Order of Merit, will headline the local charge.
Fresh off a playoff victory in Ruiru, the veteran pro is eager to capitalize on familiar territory.
“I’ve played at Nyali many times, and it’s always a good test of ball control, especially with the wind. My game is in good shape and the goal remains the same, being consistent, and staying focused. This tour has given us something to chase and I’m really motivated heading to the Coast,” said Indiza.
Joining him are Thika Greens champion Njoroge Kibugu and top amateur John Lejirma, who came close to victory in Ruiru and sits third on the Order of Merit.
Lejirma views the Nyali leg as another opportunity to prove himself.
“Ruiru was a learning experience. I had a strong start but didn’t close it out the way I wanted. Heading into Nyali, I feel sharper mentally and physically. This tour is giving us amateurs a professional platform and world ranking opportunities, and I’m fully focused on taking advantage of that,” he said.
The international field is equally competitive.
Rwanda’s Celestin Nsanzuwera, who finished second in Thika and has consistently earned OWGR points, returns as one of the top-ranked non-Kenyans.
He will be joined by five compatriots including Jules Dusabe and Felix Dusabe.
Tanzania’s strong team features Nuru Mollel and Isaac Wanyeche, while Uganda fields experienced players such as Ronald Rugumayo and Abraham Ainamani.
Other notable names include Nigeria’s Olapade Sunday, Malawi’s Paul Chidale, Zimbabwe’s Liberty Gumisaa, Ghana’s Erick Kwame Ligbidi, and Salum Nkurunziza from Burundi.
The women’s draw will be led by Naom Wafula, making her professional debut in Kenya.
The former Kenya Ladies Golf Union Golfer of the Year is optimistic about her transition.
“This is a dream I’ve worked toward for years. Turning professional was a big decision, but this tour provides the perfect platform to test myself, compete with top players, and grow my game. I’m looking forward to the challenge,” she said.
She will be joined by amateurs Joyce Wanjiru and Margaret Njoki.
The Sunshine Development Tour is the only OWGR-sanctioned tour in East and Central Africa, serving as a critical launchpad for aspiring professionals eyeing global tours and Olympic qualification.
Following the Nyali event, the Tour shifts to Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani for the fourth leg from August 9–11, capping off the Coast Region swing.