NAIROBI, Kenya, February 22, 2026 – Kenya’s golf sensation Njoroge Kibugu wound up his 2026 Magical Kenya Open — presented by Absa Bank Kenya — with a commanding performance at the Karen Country Club on Sunday afternoon.
The 22-year-old finished on 5-under-par 65, which included four birdies on the back nine as well as one more on the front nine.
Njoroge, who had endured a torrid day in Round Three of the competition on Saturday, credited his improved performance to enough rest.
“Today I was well rested…I went home and recovered. I knew I had to do better than yesterday. I am happy…I am really happy with my performance today,” the Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club resident said.
Overall, it was a roller coaster of emotions as weather kept flip flopping between sunny and rainy conditions, forcing play to be suspended.
The first time, at midday, cause over one-and-a-half hour disruption, before eventually resuming.
The second time was half an hour later, although Njoroge carded a par on the ninth hole, just in time to wrap up his campaign.
Njoroge admitted it took some time to get going once play resumed.
“The body was a bit slow. I didn’t get the greatest of shots but I knew I had to get in there. Hit a few pars and one birdie but generally I am happy with how I did,” he said.
The youngster’s attention now turns to the Sunshine Golf Tour in South Africa where he will be only East African male golfer in the prestigious competition.
He described it as a privilege not to be taken lightly.
“Thank you to all those who have supported me…to all my sponsors, for being able yo push me. I can’t wait to get the season started with them,” Njoroge said.
From a general perspective, Njoroge believes that Kenyan golf is headed in the right direction.
It means a lot…even though a lot of us didn’t make it but we are headed in the right direction. It was the first season we had through Equator and Sunshine so hopefully we will have a lot of talent coming through,” he said.
Kenya was represented by 18 golfers, including 12 pros and six amateurs.
