Burkina Faso – Golf: Clément Nikiema, undisputed master of the green
The second edition of the Burkina Faso National Golf Championship crowned Clément Nikiema. True to his reputation, he claimed victory ahead of Louis Dakissaga and Gérard Kaboré, confirming his talent and dedication. Spotlight on this well-earned triumph.
An iconic figure in Burkinabe golf, Clément Nikiema once again dominated the national golf championship in the professional category, adding a long-anticipated title to his record. It was an unsurprising win for the undisputed master of golf in Burkina Faso, who finished with 281 strokes, ahead of Louis Dakissaga and Gérard Kaboré. “I’m happy about this title. This championship is always demanding, but it’s a pleasure to compete in it. It’s become routine, because every year—for ten years now—I’ve been the one winning the national golf championship of Burkina Faso. My goal now is to shine internationally. Golf isn’t complicated; you just need to train. I train every day from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.,” said the champion.
In the amateur category, where there was more suspense, it was Moussa Kafando who caused a surprise by beating Boukaré Ouédraogo and Salif Samaké. “I didn’t even have time to train during the weeks. I only play on weekends. There are people who come twice or three times a week. I just don’t have the time—only on Saturdays or Sundays,” said Moussa Kafando.
This edition featured 40 golfers: 15 professionals and 25 amateurs, including three women. The level of the second edition of the Burkina Faso National Golf Championship was significantly higher than that of the previous season, much to the satisfaction of the federation. “Our golfers are very good, I assure you. Very good. Proof is, when we organized the Open here with 32 professionals from the sub-region, the champion was a Burkinabe. He then went to the Lomé Open and showed a very high level there too. We also sent two to the Yamoussoukro Open, and they placed very well,” said Salif Samaké, president of the Burkina Faso Golf Federation.
Established in 2024, the Burkina Faso Golf Federation has made it a priority to promote the sport. Its goal is to train at least five professional golfers capable of bringing medals back to the country from international competitions. To meet this challenge, golf stakeholders can count on the support of former Stallions captain and ambassador of Burkinabe sports, Charles Kaboré, who was the patron of this edition: “This is a sport that brings people together. I believe it involves a lot of walking, core training, and arm work. I think it’s suitable for all ages. Today, we’re here for the second edition of the national golf championship. It’s a young federation that needs support and encouragement, and I had the honor of being chosen as the patron of this championship. I’m grateful, I congratulate the federation, and I encourage them to keep going because they are motivated, committed, and we’re here to support them,” he emphasized.
Successfully held in Balkuy, the national golf championship has set the stage for the Burkina Faso Golf Federation to now turn its attention to international competitions, where it hopes to register its athletes and bring continental medals home.
