John Lejirma of Royal Nairobi Golf Club in action during the Shunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing in Ruiru/HANDOUTJohn Lejirma and Michael Karanga have outlined ambitious targets as they seek to establish themselves among the region’s top professional golfers and compete on bigger international stages.
The two made their first professional appearances during the opening leg of the Sunshine Development Tour held at Thika Sports Club from April 19-21, with Karanga immediately making his mark.
The former amateur standout finished tied second in his debut appearance, missing out on victory by a single stroke to Rwanda’s Celestin Nsanzuwera.
“I feel honoured to have played three-under for the three rounds,” Karanga said. “It was not easy coming in as a pro for my first tournament, and I put up a good fight.”
Despite the strong start, Karanga says his focus is firmly fixed on long-term growth and consistency.
“My target is first to play good golf, as I was playing as an amateur. This is a new chapter,” he said.
His biggest ambition is to secure a place on the Sunshine Tour in South Africa, a move he believes would elevate his career to the next level.
“I’m really looking forward to get the Sunshine Tour card, to go to South Africa. I’m capable and I have what it takes,” he said.
Karanga is also targeting qualification for next year's Magical Kenya Open, widely regarded as the biggest golf tournament on Kenyan soil.
“Also, to qualify for Magical Kenya Open, to be part of those 10 players in the rankings,” he added.
Karanga believes the increasing number of competitive events in Kenya is giving local golfers greater confidence to dream bigger.
“Golf is growing very well in Kenya,” he said. “We have many tournaments and that’s a positive sign for the pro game.”
Michael Karanga in action during the Betika Masters, the seventh leg of the Sunshine Development Tour - East Africa Swing at VetLab Sports Club/HANDOUTOver the years, Lejirma consistently ranked among the country’s leading amateurs, winning titles across the local circuit and representing Kenya in regional and international competitions.
He says the experience gained over the years convinced him he was ready to challenge himself at a higher level.
“It feels like I’ve really grown in my golf,” Lejirma said. “I’ve really gained experience through amateur golf, both local and international events. So I felt it was the right time to take the next step and just try in the big league.”
Lejirma’s first outing did not produce the result he hoped for, but he remains focused on the process rather than immediate success.
“It’s been a great pleasure. The first one in the books didn’t go well. It’s just part of the game. We take the lessons and move forward,” he said.
The golfer insists discipline and patience will be crucial as he adjusts to the demands of professional competition.
“I know the level is high out there and really competitive, but that’s something that I really want,” he said. “Nothing fancy. Just staying patient, staying disciplined, and just enjoying the moment.”
Lejirma has also revealed he is working extensively on improving his short game as he seeks to sharpen the finer details needed to compete consistently at the top level.
The two golfers now share a common ambition — to break into elite competition, earn opportunities abroad and continue raising the profile of Kenyan golf on the international stage.
