Military Golf Championship affirms Kenya’s status as a premier golf tourism destination

Kenya has affirmed its growing prominence in the international golf tourism market following the successful hosting of the 16th International Military Sports Council (CISM) World Golf Championship.

The week-long event, held from June 22nd to 29th at Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Resort in Kwale County, brought together 119 participants from 19 countries, signifying Kenya’s capacity to deliver high-caliber global sports tournaments while showcasing its rich tourism offerings and warm hospitality.

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chairman Francis Gichaba hailed the tournament as a landmark success that injected significant value into the country’s tourism ecosystem.

“This championship was a pivotal moment, coming hot on the heels of the Magical Kenya Open hosted earlier this year, and it demonstrates that Kenya is firmly in the global spotlight as a premier golfing destination,” said Gichaba.

“For the longest time, we have been known for the beach and bush safari, but we are now showcasing our diverse assets, including over 40 golf courses, some of which are world-class.”

He added that beyond the competitive play, the event was designed to create a holistic Kenyan experience for the delegates.

“Post-tournament, we have arranged tourism packages for the delegates to visit Shimba Hills and Tsavo and even swim with the dolphins, ensuring they become true ambassadors for our unique golf-safari value proposition.”

The tournament was a joint effort between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, reflecting a unified government strategy to harness sports as a driver of tourism development.

Major General Timothy Lekolool, Chairman of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Golf Association, emphasized the dual impact of the event.

“Hosting 119 golfers from 19 countries has been a fulfilling experience.

“The players and officials have seen what Kenya offers, and many are keen to return with their families, creating a significant multiplier effect for our tourism sector,” he said.

He noted that the event would not only have international marketing benefits but also deepen the interest in golf among members of the Kenya Defence Forces.

“The challenging nature of the course has sparked greater interest in golf within the KDF, building the sport locally,” he added.

The international verdict on the Kenyan experience was overwhelmingly positive. Major Cameron Lowdon, President of CISM Golf, whose delegation travelled from as far as Canada, lauded the organizations and hospitality which he termed 'spectacular'.

 “We have had an absolutely wonderful event here in Diani. The hospitality has been amazing and is recognized by all 19 participating nations,” said Major Lowdon. “For many, this was their first time in Kenya, and I know they will leave with wonderful memories.

The location has been fabulous - waking up to views of the Indian Ocean is an experience you can't beat. The hospitality from Kenya has been exceptional, and I know some participants are extending their stay to enjoy safaris.”

The tournament’s success underlines the strategic leverage towards golf tourism, a lucrative niche within the travel industry.

Golf tourists are estimated to spend nearly three times more than traditional leisure travellers and tend to stay longer, benefiting local businesses from caddies to hoteliers.

In support of this, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has been implementing extensive social media and digital marketing campaigns to raise awareness and attract international golf travellers.

This focus is part of a broader national strategy, which was re-energized during a recent golf tourism stakeholders’ forum convened by the Board.

The forum resolved to re-energize the Kenya Golf Marketing Alliance (KGMA) to foster coordinated marketing and product development.

These ongoing efforts align with KTB’s long-term goal to entrench Kenya’s position as a premier global golf destination, a status already recognized by past accolades such as being named Africa’s Best Golf Destination in 2020.