Malaba South Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Bonface Ekada Mamai has faulted the absence of a golf course in Busia County, saying the gap continues to deny the region economic, sporting and tourism opportunities.
Mamai spoke on Sunday during golf and basketball clinics held at St Joseph’s Kocholya Secondary School in Malaba South Ward. The clinics were sponsored by Kiwimbi, with Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o attending as the chief guest.
The MCA said Busia had been sidelined despite its strategic position as a border county and commercial hub, while neighbouring counties such as Kakamega and Kisumu boast well-established golf clubs.
“The lack of a golf course in Busia is not just a sporting gap but a missed economic opportunity. Golf attracts tourism, investment and creates jobs, particularly for the youth,” Mamai said.
He noted that the county has vast tracts of public land that could be utilised to develop at least a nine-hole golf course to nurture young talent.
Mamai added that golf plays a key role in youth mentorship, discipline and networking, arguing that young people in Busia deserve equal exposure to the sport.
He urged the county executive and the departments of sports and tourism to prioritise golf infrastructure in future budgets, proposing public-private partnerships as a viable financing model.
The legislator appealed to Governor Paul Otuoma to consider establishing a golf course, noting that local golfers currently travel to Kakamega, Kisumu and Tororo in Uganda for training and tournaments.
Kiwimbi proprietor Prof Olubayi Olubayi said while having a golf course was important, structured training was key to mastering the game.
Japanese-based brothers Sixon Otieno (19), whose personal best is par under 65 and handicap 6 Zion Otieno (12) showcased their skills during the clinic. Sixon plays for Osaka Gakuin University, where he is ranked among the top three golfers and represents the institution in inter-prefecture competitions.
Governor Nyong’o commended the organisers for promoting sports, saying regular physical exercise contributes to healthy living.
In the 3×3 basketball friendlies, Amagoro edged out Adili of Kisumu 12–11 in the second match after Adili had won the opening encounter by the same scoreline.
