Magical Kenya Open Receives Timely Financial Boost as Organisers Announce Millions in Prize Money

Absa Bank Kenya has today announced a KES 65 million investment into the 2026 Magical Kenya Open (MKO) Golf Tournament, reaffirming its position as the presenting partner and the largest private sector sponsor of the prestigious championship for the 15th consecutive year.

The 57th edition of the Magical Kenya Open will take place from February 19 to 22, 2026, at the renowned Karen Country Club, one of Africa’s most iconic golfing venues.

Of the total investment, KES 40 million will be channelled directly to the Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) to support the organisation and delivery of the tournament.

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The remaining KES 25 million will be utilised by Absa Bank Kenya for marketing initiatives and experiential activities aimed at enhancing engagement for its stakeholders, including customers, fans, players, and partners.

Speaking during the announcement, the State Department of Sports hailed Absa’s enduring support, citing the partnership as a powerful example of how sport can drive economic growth and global visibility.

“For more than 15 years, Absa’s sponsorship of the Magical Kenya Open has firmly positioned the Bank as the largest corporate supporter of the tournament,” said Evans Achoki, Secretary Administration at the State Department of Sports.

“This long-standing partnership has helped elevate Kenya’s profile on the global golfing stage while reinforcing the country’s reputation as a premier tourism destination.”

Kenya Open Golf Limited (KOGL) Chairman, Patrick Obath, welcomed Absa’s continued commitment, emphasising the importance of public-private partnerships in sustaining globally competitive sports events hosted in Kenya.

“For 15 years, Absa Bank has consistently supported the Magical Kenya Open Golf Tournament, propelling the event into a platform that has become one of Kenya’s most prestigious sports tourism events,” said Mr. Obath.

“Private sector sponsorships not only strengthen Kenya’s ability to host world-class events, but also showcase the country’s capacity in infrastructure development, hospitality, national pride and sporting excellence.”

On his part, Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abdi Mohamed, noted that the Bank’s sustained investment in sports aligns with its broader brand purpose of recognising and amplifying stories of excellence, both on and off the course.

“At Absa, our purpose is Empowering Africa’s Tomorrow Together… one story at a time. As such, we invest in sports as a platform where we see stories of excellence, resilience and possibilities,” said Mr. Mohamed.

“Through our sponsorship, we are not just showcasing the game of golf; we are walking the journey with players, communities and the entire sports ecosystem, while spotlighting Brand Kenya to the world.”

This year’s tournament has attracted a strong field of 144 elite golfers from around the world, including 10 professional and amateur golfers representing Kenya, as well as the past five winners of the Magical Kenya Open.

Competitors will battle it out over four thrilling rounds for a share of the KES 348.3 million (USD 5 million) prize purse.

Kenyan professionals in the field include Njoroge Kibugu, Dismas Indiza, and Greg Snow, who will compete against international golfers drawn from 25 countries.

The Magical Kenya Open is part of the DP World Tour and remains one of Africa’s most prestigious golf tournaments.

The event consistently attracts elite international players, extensive global media coverage, and millions of golf enthusiasts both locally and internationally.

Beyond competition, the tournament continues to play a vital role in positioning Kenya as a premium sports and tourism destination, delivering significant global exposure and reinforcing the country’s appeal as a host of world-class sporting events.