BULAWAYO- NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani has positioned the President’s Golf Cup as a key platform for promoting sports tourism, national unity and economic development, as the four-day tournament concluded at Bulawayo Country Club.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony of the second edition of the President’s Golf Cup, Mushanawani said the event held under the patronage of President Emmerson Mnangagwa has grown into a significant fixture on Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar.
The President was represented by the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, alongside other senior government officials.
Mushanawani said the tournament, which ran from Day 1 to Day 4, brought together professional, amateur and junior golfers, culminating in a Pro-Am competition and prize-giving ceremony.
“This week we have witnessed a remarkable convergence of sporting excellence, national pride and strategic collaboration,” he said.
The event featured professional opening rounds, a midweek competition, a junior tournament and a Pro-Am practice session, showcasing talent across different levels of the sport.
Mushanawani noted that the tournament aligns with national events, with participants expected to proceed to Independence Day commemorations in Maphisa, Matabeleland South.
“This continuity reflects a powerful narrative that sport, patriotism and national identity are deeply interconnected,” he said.
He added that the President’s Cup contributes to Zimbabwe’s economic growth agenda under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), particularly through sports tourism.
“The influx of players, officials and spectators stimulates economic activity across sectors such as hospitality, transport and digital services, while enhancing Zimbabwe’s global visibility,” Mushanawani said.
The tournament also drew continental attention, with the President of the Africa Golf Federation, Gift Omolo, in attendance, representing more than 30 countries.
Mushanawani said NetOne’s involvement as a premier partner reflects its broader role beyond telecommunications.
“As the backbone of connectivity, we enable real-time global engagement that elevates this tournament beyond physical boundaries,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of corporate collaboration in supporting national initiatives, saying partnerships were critical in unlocking value and creating opportunities.
Mushanawani described golf as a sport that embodies discipline, integrity and strategic thinking—qualities he said are essential for national development.
The President’s Golf Cup, he added, is not only about sport but also about fostering leadership values and contributing to Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda.
The event ended with the recognition of winners and participants for their performance and sportsmanship.
