Rebecca Miano’s message to Njoroge Kibugu after Magical Kenya Open Success as President Ruto Awards Sh5M

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano has lauded Kenyan professional golfer Njoroge Kibugu following his impressive performance at the Magical Kenya Open, part of the DP World Tour in Kenya.

In a heartfelt message, Miano described Kibugu as a symbol of Kenya’s promising future, saying the country’s prosperity lies in its vibrant young generation.

“The future of Kenya’s prosperity lies in the vibrant young generation like Njoroge Kibugu, a young man who has reminded us that Kenya’s talent is as diverse as our landscapes,” she said.

While Kenya is globally celebrated for its long-distance runners, Miano noted that Kibugu is proving the country is equally a force on the golf course.

“While the world knows us for our marathoners, Njoroge is showing them that we are also the Home of Champions on the golf course,” she added.

The CS emphasized that seeing a young Kenyan compete on the global stage serves as powerful inspiration to the youth. She described Kibugu’s journey as proof that bold dreams, discipline, and the Kenyan spirit can open doors to any arena worldwide.

“Seeing a young Kenyan compete on the global stage is the ultimate inspiration for our youth — he just dared his dream, a proof that with discipline and the Kenyan spirit, any stage is yours for the taking,” Miano stated.

She further hailed Kibugu as a true ambassador of Magical Kenya, saying his performance has given the world yet another reason to admire the country.

“Njoroge, you are a true ambassador for Magical Kenya. You have given the world one more reason to look toward Kenya with awe. The fairway is the new frontier for Kenyan greatness, truly the Origin of Wonder ??,” she said.

Presidential Recognition

Kibugu’s stellar outing did not go unnoticed at the highest level. President William Ruto rewarded the 22-year-old golfer with KSh 5 million following his standout performance.

The President directed Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya to wire the funds to Kibugu in recognition of his hard work and for making the country proud.

“Congratulations to one Njoroge Kibugu… you have made the country proud. I direct the Sports Cabinet Secretary here to award the sum of KSh 5 million so that it can inspire other young sportspersons,” President Ruto said.

Kibugu dominated headlines over the weekend after making history as the only Kenyan to make the cut at the prestigious DP World Tour event. The young golfer bounced back from a challenging round to finish strongly, carding an impressive 5-under-par 65 on a rain-soaked Sunday.

In addition to the presidential award, Kibugu received KSh 2 million from Absa Bank Kenya, the presenting partner of the competition.

His breakthrough performance has not only elevated his profile but also strengthened Kenya’s growing reputation as a golfing destination, reinforcing the country’s brand as the “Home of Champions” — now extending beyond the track to the fairway.