HOW BIG DATA IS REVOLUTIONIZING THE UPTAKE OF INSURANCE

by Lazarus Musyoka

The insurance industry is increasingly being shaped by data-driven innovation. As digital platforms become central to service delivery, insurers are leveraging big data to better understand customer needs, improve operational efficiency, and expand access to insurance solutions. This shift is playing a critical role in driving insurance uptake by addressing long-standing challenges around accessibility, trust, and relevance.

Big data refers to the large volumes of information generated from customer interactions, digital platforms, transactions, and market activity. In the insurance sector, this includes data from policy applications, claims history, customer service engagements, and online interactions. When analyzed responsibly, such data enables insurers to identify patterns, assess risk more accurately, and design solutions that respond to evolving customer needs.

Improvement of access and relevance of insurance products

One of the key ways big data is transforming insurance is by improving access and relevance. Historically, insurance products were often standardised, making it difficult to cater to diverse customer profiles. Data-driven insights now allow insurers to better understand different customer segments and tailor solutions accordingly. For insurers, this supports the development of more relatable and customer-focused products, helping demystify insurance and encourage greater uptake among individuals, families, and businesses.

Enhancement of efficiency and customer experience

Big data is also enhancing efficiency across insurance operations. From faster policy processing to more streamlined claims management, data analytics reduces manual processes and turnaround times. These improvements address common perceptions of insurance as slow or complex. Data-informed processes support smoother customer journeys and improved responsiveness, contributing to stronger customer confidence and satisfaction.

Strengthening of risk assessment and fraud detection

In addition, data analytics plays a vital role in strengthening risk assessment and fraud detection. By analysing trends and anomalies in claims and policy data, insurers can identify potential fraud early enough and improve underwriting accuracy. This protects both the insurers and policyholders, supporting fair pricing, and contributing to a more sustainable insurance ecosystem.

Data privacy, regulation, and ethical responsibility

As insurers increasingly rely on data, the protection of personal information remains paramount. Data Privacy Day, marked on 28 January, highlights the importance of safeguarding customer data and maintaining trust. In Kenya, data handling by insurers is governed by the Data Protection Act, 2019, which requires transparency on how personal data is collected, used, shared, and stored. The Insurance Act further reinforces insurers’ obligations to operate with integrity and accountability. It is paramount for insurers to recognise that compliance with these regulatory frameworks is essential to ensuring ethical data use and protecting customer rights.

Looking ahead, big data presents an opportunity to support greater insurance penetration and financial inclusion in Kenya. As digital adoption grows, data-driven insights can help insurers reach underserved segments, simplify insurance offerings, and respond more effectively to customer needs. When balanced with strong data governance and regulatory compliance, big data can help build a more inclusive and trusted insurance sector.

At Kenya Orient Insurance Limited, the use of big data is not solely about technological advancement. It is about responsible innovation, using data to enhance service delivery, strengthen trust, and make insurance more accessible and relevant. As the industry evolves, Kenya Orient remains committed to leveraging data ethically while contributing to a more resilient and customer-centric insurance landscape.

The writer is Kenya Orient Insurance Limited Manager – ICT.

HOW ABSA BANK IS BUILDING GENERATIONAL WEALTH FOR KENYAN ATHLETES

Thousands streamed into Lobo Village, Kapsaret on Saturday for the fifth edition of the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country Tournament, eager to witness Kenya's athletic champions defend their titles and upcoming stars showcase their talent.

Agnes Ng'etich, the World Athletics Cross Country Championship winner, and John Korir claimed victory in the senior 10KM race, finishing in 32:28 and 29:44 respectively, each taking home a gold medal reward of Ksh. 770,000. This prize money represents a financial boost that when managed well, can create generational wealth and sustain families.

Yet many athletes have struggled to maintain a long-term, financially sustainable career after major championship victories. Achieving a sustainable career demands strategic investments, sound financial advice, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous financial education.

With this in mind, Absa Bank Kenya hosted a financial literacy workshop for 60 athletes ahead of the tournament. The workshop was designed to help athletes translate their championship earnings into lasting financial stability. Additionally, the bank also conducted a tree planting exercise at the sports complex as part of its continued efforts to support environmental sustainability efforts.

Among those in attendance were Lagos Marathon Champion Edwin Koech, 2023 Nairobi City Marathon Champion Robert Kiplimo Kipkemboi, and Nanjing Marathon Champion Boaz Kipkemei.

Charles Wokabi, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at Absa Kenya, mentioned that the bank's investment in sport goes far beyond handing out financial rewards.

"Many athletes earn significant prize money at a young age, but without proper planning, those earnings can vanish," he said.

"Financial literacy gives athletes control. It helps them make smart decisions, protect their earnings, and build a stable future."

Wokabi also acknowledged the reality that athletic careers are often short, underscoring the importance of early financial planning.

Financial literacy equips athletes to manage their winnings responsibly, navigate the pressures that come with sudden wealth, and ultimately build a foundation for early retirement. The workshops also benefit upcoming athletes, giving them a headstart in understanding financial management before the big financial rewards arrive.

Beyond financial literacy, the bank also advocates for education especially among young upcoming athletes whose careers are still taking shape. The bank emphasises the importance of academic success and continuity as a parallel pathway to personal growth and long-term security. This ensures they are equipped not only to compete at the highest level, but also to transition seamlessly into new opportunities when the time comes.

“We see the stories of these athletes, and we are committed to helping them thrive both on and off the track and ensuring that the money they earn supports them for life. We have a long-term commitment to support them even outside the competitions by ensuring that they have a pathway to other opportunities outside the sporting activities,” said Absa Bank Kenya Corporate and Investment Banking Managing Executive James Agin.

Additionally, these athletes are taken through nutrition and wellness programmes to support their physical and mental preparedness ahead of major competitions. These sessions are facilitated by qualified experts and coaches who provide guidance on how they can build resilience and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

These interventions also extend to the families of these athletes because when you strengthen the support system around a sportsperson, you strengthen their chances of long-term success. Family members are engaged in conversations about accessing financial support, from business capital and savings options to structured financing options. This helps create a holistic support ecosystem for these athletes and helps alleviate financial burdens over their shoulders.

Absa Bank is also passionate about environmental sustainability, driving initiatives that seek to conserve the environment. Through the Absa Kenya Foundation, the bank donated a 10,000-litre water tank and conducted a tree-planting session in Lobo Village at Jasho Primary School, giving learners a conducive learning environment.

The prizes of the competition may make headlines during the competition, however the true impact of the Absa Sirikwa Classic extends beyond the medals podium, setting athletes on a journey toward financial knowledge, long-term stability, and a secure financial legacy that supports future generations. 

EAST AFRICAN BUSINESS COUNCIL TO HOST EAST AFRICAN BUSINESS & INVESTMENT SUMMIT & EXPO 2026 IN NAIROBI

 The East African Business Council (EABC), in partnership with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat, will convene the East African Business & Investment Summit & Expo 2026 (EABIS 2026) on 24th–25th February 2026 at the Safari Park Hotel.

The event will bring together over 500 participants, including the EAC Council of Ministers, business leaders, investors, development partners, and SMEs from across the region and beyond, under the theme:

“Promoting Private Sector-Driven Regional Integration for Increased Intra- and Extra-EAC Trade and Investment”

and the motto:

“EAC Rising: From Reform to Results in a Thriving Pan-African Market.”

EABIS 2026 will serve as a high-level dialogue and deal-making platform aimed at shaping the East African economic agenda and unlocking new intra- and extra-EAC trade and investment opportunities. This year’s Summit comes at a pivotal time, coinciding with major continental and global developments, including the ongoing implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the commencement of the Tripartite Free Trade Area Agreement, and evolving global dynamics such as climate change and de-globalisation.

The programme will feature:

A Presidential Fireside Chat on regional prosperity

Enhancing Intermodal Transport & Infrastructure Connectivity

Unlocking the Potential of Trade in Services

Leveraging Regional and Continental Integration

Driving Industrialization in East Africa

Artificial Intelligence & Digital Innovation

Advancing Air Transport Liberalization for a Borderless Africa

Breakout sessions will cover:

Digital Tax Stamps and combating illicit trade

Mutual Recognition Agreements for Engineers

Strengthening Digital Trade & E-Commerce

Launch of the NTM Self-Assessment Tool & MSME Financing Gateway

Unlocking SME Growth through access to finance and mentorship

East African textile, leather, and edible oil value chains are expected to showcase their products and engage in B2B matchmaking sessions with counterparts from across the continent.

The Summit is organized with the support of the German Development Cooperation, TradeMark Africa, the European Union, the International Trade Centre, and the African Development Bank.

EABC also recognizes the valued sponsorship of the East African Development Bank, Isuzu East Africa, RSM Eastern Africa, African Civil Aviation Commission, and Equity Bank Kenya, whose generous support has enabled EABC to successfully host this prestigious Summit and Expo.

The event will explore these trends while positioning the EAC as Africa’s premier trade and investment hub and leveraging the digital economy as a driver of sustainable growth and inclusion.

“Beyond dialogue, this Summit is about delivering measurable outcomes. A communiqué outlining key recommendations and resolutions from the Summit discussions will be formally presented by the East African Business Council to the Chairperson of the EAC Council of Ministers for consideration in policy decision-making. This ensures that the voice of the private sector directly informs regional reforms and drives practical, results-oriented integration,” said Ahmed Farah, Executive Director/CEO of the East African Business Council.

ISK DECRY NOT BEEN PART OF NEW LAND COMMISSION

The institute of surveyors of Kenya has decried none of it's members was nominated by the president to the National land commission saying they lack merit to oversee the commission which must have professionals.

According to Eric Nyadimo the president of ISK who spoke in a press conference in Nairobi at the ISK offices,the National land commission act states clearly that people serving in that board should have experience in land laws, surveys, valuation, physical planning and land matters and should have experience of over ten years for commissioners and over fifteen years for the chairman which those nominated by the president lack.

The institute has threatened to seek legal redress should the president fail to reconsider his appointment arguing land matters are sensitive and needs to be handled by qualified people.Land governance must be guided by law, technical competence and public interest.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTRE COLLABORATES WITH EAST AFRICAN BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT SUMMIT & EXPO 2026 TO ADVANCE REGIONAL TRADE.

 The International Trade Centre (ITC), through the European Union (EU) –funded EU-EAC Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP II) has partnered with the East African Business Council (EABC) for the upcoming East African Business and Investment Summit & Expo (EABIS) 2026, scheduled to take place from 24–25 February 2026 at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya.

The East African Business and Investment Summit & Expo is a flagship event that brings together Cabinet Ministers, CEOs, investors, development partners, and business leaders from across Africa and beyond to shape the East African economic agenda and unlock new intra- and extra-EAC trade and investment opportunities.

Hon. Beatrice Askul Moe, Chair of the EAC Council of Ministers and Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of EAC, ASALs and Regional Development, Republic of Kenya, will endorse the communiqué, outlining the recommendations and resolutions from the Summit discussions to inform future policy decisions.

International trade is constantly evolving, and for East African Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), navigating complex international trade regulations remains one of the biggest barriers to growth. While tariffs continue to decline, compliance with Non-Tariff Measures (NTMs) such as technical requirements, certifications, packaging, and labelling — is becoming increasingly complex.

To help businesses turn these challenges into a competitive advantage ITC will officially launch its latest digital solution, the Non-Tariff Measures Self-Assessment Tool (NTM SAT), during a breakout session titled “Turning Trade Intelligence into Business Opportunities” at the East African Business and Investment Summit on 25 February 2026.

In addition, ITC will deliver a keynote presentation on the AfCFTA Investment Protocol and the WTO Investment Facilitation Agreement during the panel on Leveraging Regional and Continental Integration. ITC will also share study insights on Value Chain Diagnostic during the High Level CEOs Dialogue on Driving Industrialization in East Africa at the East African Business and Investment Summit & Expo 2026.

The 2026 Summit edition will also feature:

Presidential Panel on Regional Prosperity.

High-Level CEOs’ Dialogue on Trade in Services.

Panel Sessions on Leveraging Regional and Continental Integration.

Panel Session on Open Skies- Advancing Air Transport Liberalization for a Borderless Africa.

Breakout Sessions on:Broadening Digital Tax Stamps Beyond Revenue Collection – Fighting Illicit Trade, Unlocking SME Growth, Strengthening E-Commerce and Mutual Recognition Agreements for Engineers.

Fireside Chats on: Artificial Intelligence, Climate Finance and Green Trade and Intermodal Transport and Infrastructure Connectivity.

The Summit will delve into continental and global economic trends with the aim of repositioning the East African Community (EAC) as Africa’s premier trade and investment hub. 

THREE TEAMS SECURE SLOTS TO REPRESENT KENYA AT CANNES LIONS 2026 COMPETITION

Top young creatives won the chance to represent Kenya globally after a competitive three day event held at Tusker Microbrewery in Nairobi.

 

 Kinjal Shekh and Muskaan Shaikh from digital category, Michelle Shingi and Nidhi Buty film category and Gichimu Ikua and Victor Mureithi from design category have been selected to represent Kenya at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity 2026 in France. The duo secured their spots after winning the second edition of the Cannes Young Lions Kenya competition.

 

The intense competition held at the Tusker Microbrewery from 6th - 8th February 2026, brought together 42 of Kenya’s most promising young creatives across the digital, design and film categories, testing their ability to deliver bold, creative and innovative solutions under high pressure.

 

“Winning the Cannes Young Lions Kenya competition is an incredible honour. I’m filled with joy and gratitude. This moment proves that bold ideas, hard work and believing in your voice truly matter. I’m proud to represent a new generation of Kenyan creatives ready to dream bigger, go further and really looking forward to flying the Kenyan flag high in the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity 2026 in France,” said Victor Mureithi.

 

“At Safaricom, we believe that the future of Kenya’s digital economy lies in the hands of our young creatives. Young Lions Kenya gives them the opportunity to think differently, collaborate, elaborate and turn their creativity into solutions that can make them compete anywhere in the world,” said Zizwe Awuor, Head of Brand and Marketing, Safaricom PLC.

 

This second edition of the competition was supported by key partners, including EABL, MB 96 and The Quollective, all of whom played a role in delivering a successful and impactful event.

 

“Tusker is proud to support Young Lions Kenya, a platform that continues to empower the next generation of Kenyan creatives as they prepare to represent the country at Cannes Lions Festival, carrying our stories, culture, and creativity to the world,” said KBL Managing Director, Andrew Kilonzo. “Our partnership aligns with our longstanding commitment to championing creativity and innovation with an aim to ensure Kenya has a strong voice on the global stage.”

 

The Quollective, which aims to reshape the region’s creative status quo, emphasised the importance of nurturing local talent and creating opportunities for it. “Partnering with Young Lions Kenya allows us to create opportunities for creative talent. We’re committed to building platforms where creativity can thrive through collaboration, mentorship and real opportunity,” said Emuron Alemu, Chief Creative Officer.

 

KENGEN MAKES CHANGES TO BOOST INVESTORS CONFIDENCE IN THE STATE OWNED ENTITY

CHAIRMAN HON ALFRED AGOI DURING A MEDIA BRIEFING 

 Shareholders of Kenya Electricity Generating

Company PLC (KenGen) today approved changes to the company’s governance

framework in a move aimed at strengthening board independence and minority

shareholder protections, as the state-backed utility seeks to bolster investor

confidence.

The resolution was approved at a duly convened Extraordinary General Meeting chaired by the chairman Hon Alfred Agoi and attended by KenGen Managing Director and CEO Eng Peter Njenga held virtually  as private investors increasingly assert influence over long term capital allocation and governance discipline within Kenya’s listed state controlled entities.

Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen), which supplies over 60% of the

country’s electricity, affirmed that the approved amendments do not dilute or alter

the Government of Kenya’s ownership stake.

Executives framed the reforms as a structural upgrade intended to align the

company with international governance standards for publicly listed firms with

dominant state shareholders.

“These changes are about predictability and trust,” the company’s chairman, Hon.

Alfred Agoi, said after the meeting. “They strengthen independence at board level

while preserving the government’s position as majority shareholder,” he added.

The overhaul changes include a revised board structure that expands the role of

independent directors. Also under the new framework, independent directors must

step down if they assume political office or become employees of government or state-

owned entities, provisions designed to limit political exposure and perceived

governance risk.

Minority investors  most consequential change is the introduction of a ring 

fenced voting mechanism that allows non state shareholders to elect independent

directors without participation from the majority shareholder.

According to Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga  the reforms were intended to

support disciplined capital allocation and operational performance. “Strong

governance lowers risk premiums,” he said. “That matters when you are financing

large-scale energy infrastructure over decades as we plan to do between now and

2034.”

The governance reset comes as KenGen continues to execute capital intensive

investments in geothermal, hydro, nuclear, solar, and wind power, projects that

require long term funding visibility and stable policy backing.

MABATI ROLLING MILLS HANDS OVER NEW CLASSROOM BLOCK AT NYANJORO PRIMARY SCHOOL IN NYAHURURU

Mabati Rolling Mills Ltd (MRM), through the Safal

MRM Foundation, today officially handed over a newly constructed classroom block at

Nyanjoro Primary School in Nyahururu.

 The project underscores MRM’s dedication to

expanding access to quality education and improving learning environments across Kenya.

The newly built block will provide a safe, dignified, and conducive learning environment for

both pupils and teachers—enhancing focus, participation, and educational outcomes.

Speaking during the handover, MRM CEO Albert Sigei explained: “Originally approached to

support roofing repairs, a site assessment revealed that the existing structures could not

safely support new roofing. Prioritizing learner safety and long-term impact, we expanded our

intervention from repair to the construction of a complete, modern classroom block.”

The Safal MRM Foundation drives our social investment initiatives, focusing on sustainable

community empowerment aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs). Our ongoing school project in Nyahururu reflects this commitment—a direct

investment in the community where we live and operate.

This initiative goes beyond philanthropy. It underscores our belief that our responsibility

extends beyond manufacturing to actively building stronger, more resilient communities.

Guided by our CSI pillars of Education and Shelter, we are investing in sustainable futures—

providing both the materials for secure shelters and the educational foundation for brighter

tomorrows.

“This project aligns with MRM’s Education Pillar and contributes directly to SDG 4—ensuring

inclusive, equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all,” added Sigei. “It addresses

the critical infrastructure challenges that once hindered daily learning for pupils and

teachers.”

The Headteacher of Nyanjoro Primary School expressed gratitude: “We are deeply thankful

to MRM and the Safal MRM Foundation for this transformative support. These new

classrooms will enable effective teaching and provide secure, engaging spaces for our

students and staff.”

The handover ceremony was attended by the Sub-County Education Officer, education

authorities, community development partners, NGOs, parents, and local leaders.

LAWYER MOVES TO COURT TO SEEK INJUNCTION TO BAR STATEHOUSE FROM HOLDING POLITICAL FUNCTIONS

Lawyer Lempaa suyianka has moved to court to bar statehouse from holding political rallies citing missuse of public funds by the ruling party.

The legal mind argues that statehoue is not a party headquarters and therefore should not hold any political meetings.

He has further sought injunction to ensure Statehouse refunds the public money used to facilitate the political rallies held at Statehouse.This follows the recently held UDA aspirants meeting at statehoue which saw a sum of five thousand shillings given to each attendee money which the lawyer says is public funds.

LG TARGETS AFRICA FOR AI POWERED HOMES

 LG Electronics (LG) has identified Africa as a key growth frontier for its AI-enabled innovations as it accelerates expansion across emerging markets. During LG InnoFest 2026 MEA, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, the company outlined its strategic vision for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), with particular emphasis on the region’s rapidly evolving consumer landscape, alongside continued engagement in Latin America and Asia.

The event brought together more than 250 B2C and B2B partners and media representatives from across the MEA region. It provided a platform for LG to share its forward-looking strategy with industry leaders, highlighting the region’s growing role in driving innovation adoption and reinforcing LG’s commitment to leading the premium market through advanced technology and product innovation.

Recent data shows the smarthome appliance market in Africa is shifting towards connected, app-controlled devices like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioning systems. In Kenya, for example, smart home penetration is projected to double from 2.8% in 2025 to 5.8% by 2029[1]. 

Against this backdrop, at the InnoFest 2026 MEA exhibition, LG showcased a range of AI-enabled home solutions designed to enhance everyday living, innovations particularly aligned with the needs of fast-growing urban centers across MEA. The lineup included washing machines that optimize cycles based on load weight, fabric composition and soiling level; refrigerators capable of adjusting temperature settings based on usage patterns; and air conditioners that automatically respond to real-time room conditions. LG also presented its premium TV portfolio, including the ultra-thin Wallpaper OLED TV with True Wireless technology. Equipped with AI capabilities, LG’s televisions deliver enhanced picture quality and sound while offering personalized content experiences through the company’s continuously evolving webOS platform.

“At LG, connectivity and AI are central to our strategy as we continue expanding across Africa,” said Donghun Lee, LG’s President for East Africa. “We are focused on demonstrating how seamlessly our products integrate into everyday life through smart solutions that enhance efficiency, save energy and water, and simplify daily tasks. We do not see our offerings simply as appliances, but as intelligent solutions designed to improve quality of life through meaningful innovation.”

LG’s AI-driven innovations reflect the company’s broader vision of creating a seamless smart home ecosystem that adapts to changing lifestyles, an approach that resonates strongly in Africa, where growing middle-class populations and increasing urbanization are reshaping consumer expectations. This draws from findings that Africa is urbanizing at the world's fastest rate, with an average annual urban growth rate of approximately 3.5% over the last two decades[2]. The continent's urban population is projected to double from 700 million to 1.4 billion by 2050, driven by rapid rural-to-urban migration and natural increase[3]. Central to LG’s vision for the region is the concept of the “Zero Labor Home,” where intelligent technology reduces the burden of household chores and allows consumers to focus on what matters most.

Recognizing the diversity of consumer needs across the MEA region, LG announced plans to expand its product portfolio by introducing additional mid- and entry-level offerings to reach a broader audience. New products tailored to local preferences will include top freezer refrigerators, chest freezers and twin-tub washing machines, alongside an expanded range of built-in kitchen appliances designed to accommodate varied housing formats and lifestyle patterns.

In response to rising competition and evolving market dynamics, LG also highlighted its focus on strengthening regional sales and service capabilities through deeper market insights. The company reaffirmed its commitment to localized service enhancement through its “Our Promise” initiative, which delivers service programs adapted to the specific expectations of individual markets, including enhanced after-sales support in fast-growing MEA economies.

“LG InnoFest 2026 MEA provided an opportunity to share how we are approaching innovation and growth in this region,” said Phil Jung, region representative of LG Electronics’ Middle East and Africa Region. “By combining AI-enabled technologies with a deeper understanding of local needs, we aim to deliver solutions that are practical, relevant and valuable for consumers across the MEA region.”

ABSA BANK KENYA BOOSTS MAGICAL KENYA OPEN TOURNAMENT WITH KES65 MILLION INVESTMENT

Absa Bank Kenya PLC has today announced a KES65 million investment into the 2026 Magical Kenya Open (MKO) Golf Tournament, cementing its position as the presenting partner and largest private sector sponsor of the prestigious golf tournament for the 15th consecutive year. The 57th edition of the Magical Kenya Open presented by Absa will tee off from 19th to 22nd February 2026 at the prestigious Karen Country Club. 

 

Out of Absa’s investment, KES40 million will go directly to the KOGL to support in the organisation of the tournament, while KES25 million will be utilised by Absa for marketing related activities as well as to enhance the experience for its stakeholders, including customers, fans, players, and partners. The sponsorship strengthens Absa’s long-standing commitment to the development of sports, tourism promotion and enhancing Kenya’s global sporting brand.

 

Speaking about the investment, Absa Bank Kenya’s Managing Director and CEO, Abdi Mohamed, said the bank’s continued investment in sports reflects its brand purpose in recognising the stories behind excellence, on and off the course. 

 

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

 

The Magical Kenya Open Golf Tournament is part of the DP World Tour and remains one of Africa’s most prestigious golfing events, attracting elite international players, global media coverage and millions of golf enthusiast locally and internationally. The international tournament continues to play a pivotal role in positioning Kenya as a premium sports and tourism destination, delivering significant global exposure reaching millions of golf lovers worldwide.

 

“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. 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. It stands as clear proof that sport can be a powerful driver of economic growth,” said State Department of Sports Secretary Administration Evans Achoki.

 

Speaking at the same event, the KOGL Chairman Patrick Obath, welcomed Absa’s continued support in sports sponsorship, noting the importance of public-private collaborations in sustaining world-class events that are 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. Sponsorships from the private sector not only strengthen Kenya’s ability to host globally competitive sports events, but also showcases the country’s muscles in infrastructure development, hospitality, national pride and sporting excellence,” said Mr. Obath.

 

He added: “We take pride in the transformation of this tournament from an elitist's outlook into an inclusive family and lifestyle event. Partners like Absa Bank continuously strengthen our ability to deliver a tournament that meets global standards while elevating local talents.” 

This year's tournament has attracted a field of 144 elite golfers worldwide, including 10 professional and amateur golfers representing Kenya and the past five winners of the Magical Kenya Open tournament. The players will compete over four exciting rounds for a share of the remarkable KES 348.3 million (USD 5 million) prize purse. The Kenyan professionals participating include Njoroge Kibugu, Dismas Indiza and Greg Snow who will battle against other international golfers from 25 countries.

 

As part of Absa’s sponsorship, this year the bank will sponsor the “Beat the Pro” challenge, where junior golfers will compete alongside professional players at a selected hole to see who lands closest to the pin. Each junior winner will be awarded a fully funded Absa Junior Account worth KES 50,000, reinforcing the Bank’s focus on early financial inclusion and talent development.

 

“Beyond the game, golf embodies discipline, patience and long-term commitment, values that we strongly believe in at Absa. Consistently investing in the Magical Kenya Open Golf Tournament continues to cement our belief that we are not just supporting a tournament but that we are backing our local players’ ability to compete on the global stage, proving that local stories matter even on the world podium,” added Mr. Mohamed.