Shadrack Nyakoe
East Africa Breweries Limited’s premium spirits brand, Johnnie Walker, has committed to support the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, taking up title naming rights for the sixth leg of the Tour scheduled for 13th – 15th October 2025 at the Royal Nairobi Golf Club.
The sponsorship comes as the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing gains momentum across the continent, attracting elite golfers from Africa and beyond. The event provides participants with the opportunity to earn Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking points, making it one of the most significant platforms for East African golfers to advance on the global stage.
Johnnie Walker has a strong history of supporting golf, having previously partnered with tournaments such as the Magical Kenya Open, the Magical Kenya Ladies Open, and the Johnnie Walker Golf Series.
Speaking during the sponsorship announcement, Jean Okech, Head of Marketing, Spirits at EABL, said:
“Johnnie Walker has always found a natural home in golf because the sport attracts a community that values craft, resilience, and progress—principles that also define our brand. Through this sponsorship, we aim to create meaningful spaces for our consumers while opening doors for regional talent. We are also proud to support the participation of women golfers in this Tour as part of our commitment to inclusion and diversity.”
Charles Gacheru, Promoter of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, welcomed the partnership, noting:
“This support from Johnnie Walker is a major boost not just for the Tour but for golf in East Africa. It demonstrates the confidence a global brand has in our vision to create a pathway for local golfers to reach major tournaments like the Sunshine Tour and even the Olympics. With Johnnie Walker’s backing, we are making golf more competitive, inclusive, and visible across the continent.”
The Royal Nairobi Golf Club tournament will feature over 100 golfers competing over 54 holes, with a cut set for the top 30 and ties after round two. Players will battle for a Ksh 2 million prize purse in addition to critical global ranking points that could advance their careers.
The East Africa Swing, which teed off in March 2025 with Q-School, has already hosted successful events in Thika, Ruiru, Nyali, Diani (Kenya) and Kigali (Rwanda). The series continues to attract both male and female professionals and elite amateurs, positioning itself as a unique platform for golf talent development in Africa.
Patmoz
