Seven Tanzanian lady golfers eye top honours in Kenya event

Dar es Salaam. Seven Tanzanian golfers are set to compete in the Kenya Ladies Golf Union (KLGU) Amateur Stroke Play Championship, scheduled to tee off tomorrow at the prestigious Sigona Golf Club in Nairobi, Kenya.

The team comprises top female amateur golfers from various clubs in Tanzania. Representing Arusha Gymkhana Club are Madina Iddy, Neema Olomi, and Aalaa Somji. 

From Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club, Yasmin Chali will fly the national flag, while Lugalo Golf Club is represented by Shufaa Hassan and Vicky Elias. Also making the trip is Racheal Mushi from Kilimanjaro Golf Club.

According to Tanzania Ladies Golf Union (TLGU) president Queen Siraki, the players are already in Nairobi, finalizing their preparations ahead of the highly competitive tournament.

“This is one of the most prestigious amateur events in the region, sanctioned by the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), and it attracts elite female golfers from across the continent,” said Siraki.

She added that the competition will feature participants from countries including Uganda, Rwanda, and Great Britain. Defending champion Joyce Wanjiru from Kenya will also be in the spotlight as she looks to retain her title on home soil.

Siraki expressed confidence in the Tanzanian contingent, noting their preparation and strong desire to perform well at the continental level.

“We expect our golfers to give their very best and raise Tanzania’s flag high in Nairobi. In 2023, Madina Iddy won the tournament, and we are hopeful that the trophy will return to Tanzania this year,” she said.

The TLGU president also noted that the team’s morale is high, and all players are considered capable of producing excellent results. 

“All the golfers have shown great potential and are in top spirits,” she added.

In a notable first for Tanzania, junior golfer Shufaa Hassan will be participating in the championship. Siraki said Shufaa’s participation is a proud moment for the union, as she becomes the first junior golfer from Tanzania to take part in the event.

“Shufaa is one of the most talented junior golfers in the country. Her consistent performance and dedication have earned her this opportunity, and TLGU is proud to sponsor her,” Siraki explained. 

“This will be an important experience for her development, and we hope to give similar opportunities to other young golfers who demonstrate excellence and potential to represent the national team in the future.”

The KLGU Amateur Stroke Play Championship is expected to serve as a valuable platform for players to gain international exposure and sharpen their competitive edge. 

For Tanzania, it marks another step forward in elevating women’s golf and nurturing young talent to compete on the global stage.