(NATION AFRICA) In addition to being the leading amateur golfer in the country, Michael Karanga from Kiambu Golf Club has already taken steps to cultivate future stars who will follow in his footsteps. In early 2022, Karanga established the Michael Karanga Golf Foundation (MKGF) with the explicit goal of nurturing young golf talent within Ndumberi village of Kiambu County, where he initiated his golfing journey.
“I set up the foundation to coordinate the recruitment and training of young kids, especially from underprivileged families. With the foundation, I can seek support from friends and corporations,” explained Karanga. Besides imparting golf skills to kids, Karanga has also provided support such as textbooks to enhance their studies, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between golf and education.
On January 5, 2024, the MKGF organized a book donation event for participating children at Ndumberi Golf Club, colloquially known as “St. Andrews Ndumberi Golf Course” due to its historical significance for Kenya African golfers. Numerous school-going children received textbooks and stationery valued at approximately Sh200,000. “We need to equip these young children so that they can excel not only in golf but also in their education,” emphasized Karanga.
In the realm of golf, the foundation received a boost from a generous supporter, Ketan Raja, a UK-based businessman, who donated an array of golf equipment during a ceremony at Ndumberi Golf Club on December 14, 2023. This event was attended by Philip Ochola, the Chairman of Kenya Golf Union (KGU). Regarding the ongoing practice and training sessions for the children, conducted by certified golf trainers Lee Njino and Kiarie Kahochia, Karanga expressed the foundation’s plans to visit most schools in Kiambu County to identify and nurture talent.
“We are very grateful to all the sponsors and supporters for their generous donations. We pledge to redouble our efforts now that we have received golf equipment and golf balls for our local aspiring golf players,” affirmed Karanga after the presentation.
While the foundation is currently financed by Michael Karanga and his close friends, there are plans underway to seek funds globally from all well-wishers. The Michael Karanga Golf Foundation (MKGF) stands as a beacon of transformation, currently embarking on an inspiring journey of mentorship and training for over 300 budding young minds at the picturesque St. Andrews Ndumberi Golf Course.
Led by its visionary founder, Karanga, and supported by a dedicated circle of friends, this program transcends the boundaries of a mere golf initiative; it is a comprehensive platform for nurturing both sporting excellence and life skills. Amidst the lush greenery of St. Andrews Ndumberi Golf Course, the sounds of laughter and the rhythmic thud of golf swings create an atmosphere brimming with potential. The MKGF program has evolved into a haven for these kids, offering them not only an opportunity to hone their golfing skills but also a holistic approach to personal development. Karanga, a seasoned golfer and the reigning Kenya golf champion, with a fervor for empowering the younger generation, envisioned a program that goes beyond traditional sports mentorship. His commitment extends beyond financial sponsorship; it reflects a profound belief in the transformative power of mentorship to shape futures.
Under the MKGF umbrella, these young talents are not only introduced to the nuances of golf but are also equipped with invaluable life skills. The curriculum extends beyond the golf course, encompassing essential values such as discipline, teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and integrity. Through interactive sessions, workshops, and real-life scenarios, the foundation aims to instill a sense of responsibility and resilience in these budding individuals. Karanga is the grandson of the senior professional golfer Michael Karanga Mwaura.
The MKGF program is not confined to the golf course; its impact extends beyond the greens. Regular community engagement initiatives and outreach programs are organized to create a positive ripple effect in the lives of these youngsters and the communities they belong to.
