Nigerian Golfer Francis Epe Clinches Kenya Open Spot With CIO Classic Victory

Nigeria’s golfer Francis Epe has earned a spot in the 2026 Magical Kenya Open after triumphing at the sixth CIO Golf Classic in Port Harcourt. The victory, secured at the Python Golf Club, came against a field of more than 100 competitors and earned him one of the two available qualification spots through the Safari Tour system.

The Magical Kenya Open, set for February 19–22, 2026, at the Karen Country Club in Nairobi, is one of the few DP World Tour events hosted in sub-Saharan Africa, offering African golfers a platform to compete with top international players.

Rwandan golfer Celestin Nsanzuwera claimed the other qualifying ticket. Tournament sponsor Ikenna Okafor, CEO of Keeves Global Leasing, praised Epe’s achievement, noting it highlights the growing opportunities for African golfers to break into global competitions.

Plans are underway to expand the CIO Championship in future editions, including increasing the prize purse to further promote professional golf in the region.