Kenya cements place on global golf tourism map with successful CISM championship

Kenya has reaffirmed its rising status in international golf tourism following the successful hosting of the 16th edition of the International Military Sports Council (CISM) World Golf Championship.

The week-long tournament, held from J22-29 June in Kwale County, attracted 119 participants from 19 countries, highlighting Kenya’s ability to stage world-class sporting events while showcasing its rich tourism attractions and unmatched hospitality.

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chairman Francis Gichaba hailed the event as a milestone for the country's tourism sector.

“This tournament marked a turning point, coming just months after the Magical Kenya Open,” said Gichaba.

“It proves that Kenya is no longer just about the beach and safari. Our golfing credentials are gaining global recognition, with more than 40 golf courses, some of them world-class.”

He emphasized that the championship went beyond the sport itself, offering a full Kenyan experience.

“We curated post-tournament tourism packages for the delegates, including trips to Shimba Hills, Tsavo, and dolphin excursions, so they leave as ambassadors of our unique golf safari product.”

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The championship was organized through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, an example of how the government is leveraging sports to drive tourism growth.

Major General Timothy Lekolool, Chairman of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Golf Association, echoed these sentiments.

“Hosting 119 golfers from 19 countries has been a deeply rewarding experience,” he said. “Many participants have expressed interest in returning with their families, which will have a ripple effect across our tourism value chain.”

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He added that the event had also sparked renewed interest in golf within the KDF. “The course challenged many of our officers, and we have seen a boost in enthusiasm for the sport among our ranks.”

International feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Major Cameron Lowdon, President of CISM Golf, praised both the organization and hospitality.

“We have had a spectacular time here in Diani,” he said. “The views of the Indian Ocean are breathtaking, and the hospitality from the Kenyan team has been exceptional. Many of our participants are extending their visit to explore more of this beautiful country.”

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The event also underscored the strategic value of golf tourism, a high-yield niche in the global travel industry.

Golf travelers typically spend nearly three times more than traditional tourists and stay longer, benefiting a wide range of local businesses from hotels to caddies.

To capitalize on this, the Kenya Tourism Board has intensified its digital and social media campaigns to attract more international golf tourists.

These efforts align with a broader national strategy reinforced during a recent golf tourism stakeholders’ forum hosted by KTB.

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The forum resolved to revive the Kenya Golf Marketing Alliance (KGMA) to strengthen marketing efforts and product development.

These moves support KTB’s long-term ambition of positioning Kenya as a premier global golfing destination, a title already backed by its 2020 recognition as Africa’s Best Golf Destination.

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