Two young Rwandan golfers delivered impressive performances at the U.S. Kids Golf Nairobi Local Tour held at Ruiru Sports Club over the weekend. Eight-year-old Joey Mutaboba finished second in the Boys 8 & Under category with a score of 52, competing in a strong field that featured some of East Africa’s most consistent junior players. His result places him among the leading talents in his age group, highlighting both composure and growing competitive maturity. In the Boys 6 & Under category, his younger brother Khaya Mutaboba, 5, secured third place with a score of 62—an important milestone early in his development. Competing against older and more experienced players, Khaya demonstrated steady progress and confidence on the course. The Nairobi Local Tour, part of the global U.S. Kids Golf circuit, attracts young golfers from across East Africa and provides a structured pathway for junior competition. The events are designed to test skill, discipline, and course management in real tournament conditions. The participation of the two Rwandan juniors highlights the growing investment in youth golf development, driven by initiatives such as the Kigali Golf Academy. Regular training and increased exposure to competitive play are beginning to translate into strong performances beyond Rwanda’s borders. Speaking after the event, the siblings expressed appreciation for the support they received from coaches, caddies, and parents, noting that the experience was just as valuable as the results. “I’m really happy with how I played today. Coming second in such a big international tournament feels amazing. I gave it my best and I’m proud of myself,” said Joey Mutaboba. Their father, Steve Mutaboba, also praised their efforts. “I couldn’t be prouder of my sons today. Joey showed great heart and maturity on the course, especially under pressure. Second place at this level is a huge achievement. We’re very excited for what’s next,” he said. With continued participation in regional tournaments, Rwanda’s next generation of golfers is steadily gaining visibility and experience, positioning the country as an emerging force in junior golf across East Africa. As the junior golf calendar progresses, the two siblings are expected to build on this momentum, with more regional appearances anticipated in the coming months.
