Adnane Eddadissi, a one-year GCSAA member, is the director of agronomy at Kigali Golf Resort & Villas in Kigali, Rwanda. He is the only GCSAA member based in the country. Photos courtesy of Adnane Eddadissi
Adnane Eddadissi has a distinction unique among GCSAA members: He’s the only one based in Rwanda. Eddadissi is the director of agronomy at Kigali Golf Resort & Villas in Kigali, Rwanda, where he puts his passion for nature, sports and biology to work every day. In an interview with GCM, Eddadissi spoke about what brought him to the industry and why he loves what he does.
GCM: Tell us a little about yourself.
Eddadissi: I’m originally from Safi, a coastal city in Morocco, where the natural landscape shaped my connection to the environment. Growing up in a family that valued outdoor activities and active living, I developed a deep love for nature and sports. I was encouraged to explore, stay active, and engage with the world around me.
My passion for science, biology and the environment became a driving force in my academic and professional life, and I continue to seek ways to blend my love for science with my active lifestyle. My interest in sports complemented this passion, as I saw how physical activity and nature come together, whether in exploring new landscapes or pushing my physical limits.
Now in my mid-20s, I’ve worked in various regions, including Morocco and East Africa, and I am currently based in Rwanda. These diverse experiences have enriched my understanding of different ecosystems, cultures, and environmental challenges.
When were you first exposed to golf?
My first exposure to golf was when my family visited a golf course in Morocco. I was struck by how the golf course wasn’t just a place for the sport but a space that harmonized with nature and contributed positively to the community. The peaceful ambiance of the course, with its lush green fairways set against the backdrop of beautiful landscapes, intrigued me deeply.
The second turning point came during my studies at Hassan II Agronomic and Veterinary Institute. We took a study trip to a renowned golf course in Agadir, one of Morocco’s prime golfing destinations. I remember being awestruck by the science behind turf management, irrigation, and the overall maintenance of the course. I realized golf courses could be so much more than just places to play; they could play a significant role in supporting local economies, promoting sustainability, and preserving the environment.
Eddadissi with the maintenance team at Kigali Resort & Villas.
Do you play golf?
Although I’m not a professional, I thoroughly enjoy the game. Playing allows me to appreciate the course from a player's perspective, which is crucial in my role in golf course management. It gives me a deeper understanding of what players experience when they step onto the course and reinforces the importance of course conditions.
Playing golf also helps me understand the finer details of what goes into creating an exceptional playing environment. There’s something deeply satisfying about blending my love for the sport with my professional work, as it provides a holistic view of the entire experience.
How did you become interested in golf course management?
My interest in golf course maintenance truly blossomed during an internship with the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation, led by Prince Moulay Rachid. This internship was a game-changer for me. I joined the Water and Environment Commission, and suddenly I was immersed in a world where golf met sustainability.
I had the opportunity to travel across Morocco, visiting over 40 golf courses, each with unique terrain and management strategies. I saw firsthand how golf course management wasn’t just about maintaining pristine turf but also about ecological responsibility, water conservation and creating a high-quality experience for golfers.
One key project I worked on involved assessing water usage and sustainability efforts across various courses. This experience helped me understand the impact golf courses have on the environment, local economy and community at large. I am incredibly proud to have been part of this initiative and to have contributed to the important work being done at a national level.
What was your education experience like?
I completed my formal engineering education in agronomy and horticulture, specializing in Landscaping and turfgrass management at the Hassan II Agronomic and Veterinary Institute. My academic background provided me with a strong foundation in soil science, plant physiology, and environmental sustainability.
During my first work experience, I had the opportunity to take the Golf Course Management program through Ohio State University. These courses provided me with a deeper understanding of the science behind golf course management, from turf care to water management. The combination of university education and the hands-on experiences I gained through internships helped me build a well-rounded skill set that I apply in my work today.
Part of the golf course at Kigali Resort & Villas, Rwanda's only 18-hole golf course.
Where else have you worked on your professional journey?
My career has taken me on an adventure across some of Africa’s most prestigious golf courses. This journey has been one of growth, learning, and pushing the boundaries of excellence in agronomy and guest experience.
It began in Marrakech, Morocco, home to one of Africa’s premier golf destinations. Marrakech boasts over 15 world-class courses. I had the privilege of joining one of the region’s most distinguished and oldest courses—a Trent Jones Championship layout nestled within a luxury resort. The course was renowned for its design and for hosting prestigious regional and international competitions. This golfers from all over the world came there to play, and the expectations for course conditions were sky-high.
I joined the course during a period of transition. After 30 years of history, the course needed significant renovations. We focused on modernizing the course while maintaining the integrity of its original design. I led the agronomy team through this period of renewal, overseeing key improvements including upgrading irrigation systems and introducing sustainable practices to support the course’s future for years to come.
After Marrakech, my career took me to Zanzibar, Tanzania. Zanzibar, with its pristine beaches, rich history, and remote beauty, posed a unique set of challenges for golf course management. The focus was not just on creating a world-class golfing experience, but on harmonizing the course with the island’s delicate environment.
The logistics of sourcing materials and equipment from the mainland was a constant hurdle, but it also sparked a wave of innovation. We had to be resourceful, adapting quickly to a climate and ecosystem unlike any I had worked in before. The course, surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation and the Indian Ocean’s salty air, required a unique approach to agronomy. We implemented eco-friendly practices, from water conservation initiatives to organic soil treatments. It taught me to think differently, to innovate and to work closely with nature.
Tell us about your current facility, Kigali Golf Resort & Villas, in Rwanda.
Kigali Golf Resort & Villas is nestled in the heart of Kigali City. The resort boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills, offering a breathtaking landscape. The environment here requires a careful approach to preservation and course management, and I continue to work closely with our agronomy teams to implement environmentally sustainable practices that also ensure the highest standards of quality.
Recently, we reached a significant milestone; our brand-new, top-standard clubhouse has just opened. This world-class facility not only enhances the overall guest experience but also positions us as a sought-after venue for golfers from around the world, reinforcing Kigali Golf Resort & Villas as a destination where luxury and golf excellence come together seamlessly.
The challenge now is ensuring the course and facility meet the expectations of these discerning international guests. Rwanda’s tropical climate and high-altitude terrain create a beautiful, unpredictable environment. The significant temperature fluctuations and intensity of the rainy season present challenges for turf health, irrigation, and general course maintenance. Adaptability is key. We must stay ahead of weather changes, carefully managing soil preparation and irrigation systems to ensure the course remains in peak condition.
One of the most rewarding challenges has been managing the team. As Rwanda continues to attract international attention, one of my key roles is to bridge cultural and linguistic differences to ensure seamless communication and collaboration. Over time, I’ve learned building strong, trust-based relationships are essential, especially in a diverse environment. The team here in Rwanda is dedicated, passionate, and eager to learn. Their pride in their work is evident, and together we've fostered a culture of excellence that directly impacts the success of the course.
What excites me the most is the potential for growth in Rwanda. With its natural beauty, the rising popularity of golf, and a commitment to sustainability, Rwanda offers unique development opportunities. Our facility’s investment in state-of-the-art technology like advanced irrigation systems, precision turf management tools and satellite turf management allow us to maintain the highest quality while minimizing environmental impact. We’re also working toward achieving sustainability certifications, aligning with Rwanda’s national goals and setting Kigali Golf Resort & Villas up as a model for sustainable golf course management in East Africa.
Kigali Resort & Villas is situated in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda's Capital.
What is the golf environment like in Rwanda? Is it a popular pastime, or is it mostly played by tourists?
Rwanda currently has a total of three golf courses.
Of these, one is an 18-hole course, and two are 9-hole courses. The 18-hole course, Kigali Golf Resort & Villas, is the most prominent and is well known for its scenic beauty and challenging layout and also known for hosting regional events and competitions. The 9-hole courses are situated in scenic areas, such as near lakes or alongside hotels, providing unique and accessible golfing experiences for both locals and tourists.
While the number of courses in Rwanda is currently limited, the growth of the sport here is promising. While golf has historically been more of a pastime for expatriates and tourists, there’s a noticeable shift happening. More Rwandans are becoming interested in the sport. Golf is starting to gain traction as a recreational activity, especially in urban areas like Kigali, where courses provide a beautiful escape.
As the country continues to develop, Rwanda has become an attractive destination for international tourists, and golf is increasingly seen as an essential part of the hospitality and tourism sectors. The combination of Rwanda’s scenic landscapes and commitment to eco-tourism has made it an appealing destination for golfers from around the world.
We’ve seen a steady increase in the number of Rwandan golfers of all ages getting involved in the sport, which is exciting. Pro and amateur Golfers are representing the country in regional and international events. This is helping build a local golfing culture, with more people joining clubs and participating in tournaments.
Why did you join GCSAA?
I joined GCSAA to be part of a professional community dedicated to advancing the field of golf course management. Working in Rwanda, where the golf industry is still developing, GCSAA membership provides me with access to invaluable resources, educational opportunities and a network of professionals who share their expertise and experiences.
One key benefit of GCSAA membership is the opportunity to share Rwanda's unique golfing vision with the global community. The country is rapidly becoming an exciting destination for golf, with a commitment to sustainability and excellence in course management. The people of Rwanda have an incredible dedication to quality, and this commitment is evident in the work of the agronomy team I lead. Through GCSAA, I hope to not only learn from the global leaders in the field but also share Rwanda's vision for golf—a vision of growth, sustainability, and excellence.
What are your professional goals?
Right now, I’m driven not only by my passion for golf course management but also by a desire to inspire others to join this field. I believe that by leading by example, I can encourage more young people to explore careers in golf course management and contribute to the growth of the industry, particularly in emerging markets like Rwanda.
Working with UGOLF, we’re implementing cutting-edge technologies like Skim Turf to manage golf courses more effectively using satellite imagery. These innovations, along with our commitment to sustainability through initiatives like committing to GEO sustainable certification, are helping us shape a more environmentally conscious and efficient future for golf course management.
I am excited about what lies ahead and the opportunities to continue learning and improving in this field.