Kenya: DP World Container’s Arrival Marks Golf’s Fastest Growing
In a global sports landscape where golf often struggles to gain widespread popularity, Kenya is defying the trend, experiencing a growth spurt in the sport over the past three years, particularly with including the Magical Kenya Open in the DP World Tour.
The pivotal role played by title sponsor DP World has fostered this growth. This year, DP World has significantly contributed by donating the ‘DP World Container 3.0’ to Kenya’s Junior Golf Federation (JGF), showcasing their commitment to nurturing golf talent in the country.
Regina Gachora, President of the JGF, expressed gratitude for DP World’s initiatives, noting that the last two years have seen a doubling in the number of children playing golf. The Junior Golf Foundation, with the support of DP World, has expanded its coaching staff from zero to 100 coaches nationwide. Additionally, approximately 200 golf sets have been distributed, with 15 sets coming directly from DP World.
The ‘DP World Container 3.0’ follows its predecessor, the ‘DP World second-life container,’ which traveled with the Tour and collected over 280,000 balls for grassroots golf initiatives globally. The 24,000 balls received from DP World have been distributed to 30 golf clubs across Kenya, contributing to the development of the sport at the grassroots level.
Graduates of the Junior Golf Foundation are starting to make a notable impact, with 23-year-old twins Mutahi and Njoroge Kibugu making waves as big hitters. Mutahi’s achievement of cutting last year’s Kenya Open underscores the positive influence of junior golf programs in the country.
Despite golf’s historical challenges in Kenya due to limited facilities, the Junior Golf Foundation aims to break new ground. Gachora emphasized that with increased access and awareness, children recognize golf as a viable sport alongside more popular options like football and athletics. The hope is that golf becomes one of Kenya’s top choices for young athletes.
The ‘DP World Container 3.0,’ a mobile unit housing golf equipment such as balls, clubs, clothing, and swing nets, will not only benefit Kenya but will also be donated to other emerging golf centers globally, contributing to the continued growth and global reach of the sport.
