By Sports Reporter
FAST rising Mobile Network Operator, NetOne Cellular Monday injected US$50 000 for the 2026 President’s Golf Cup, set for Bulawayo Country club in a fortnight’s time.
Speaking at the official launch at ZRP Golf Club in Harare yesterday, Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya said sport is a unifying force and a strategic driver for national development.
The US$ 50 000 purse tournament, supported by NetOne, will be held at Bulawayo Country Club from April 14 to 17.
“This tournament stands as a testament to visionary leadership that recognises sport not merely as recreation, but as a strategic driver for national development. The President’s Cup is more than a golf tournament,” said the Deputy Minister.
“Golf provides one of the most effective and understated platforms for investment promotion. Unlike formal boardrooms, the golf course creates a relaxed and organic environment where meaningful engagements can take place over time.
“It is within these spaces that business leaders, policymakers, and investors are able to interact candidly, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities without the constraints of rigid negotiation settings.
“The President’s Cup therefore becomes more than a sporting event, it is an investment interface. It allows Zimbabwe to showcase its potential, its stability, and its readiness for partnerships in sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, and services.”
The Deputy Minister said it is through such interaction that trust is built.
“It provides a neutral and welcoming space where nations, institutions, and individuals can engage constructively beyond formal diplomatic channels.
“ . . . The President’s Cup embodies the spirit of togetherness by bringing individuals from diverse backgrounds, across professions, regions, and social strata, onto a common platform.”
Zimbabwe Professional Golf Association president Arkil Yousuf said the tournament will be a success.
“We are happy as ZPGA for hosting such a tournament and we look forward to a good turnout,” he said.
“We are very grateful to NetOne for affording us a chance to compete especially ahead of the Zimbabwe Open. It is our hope that we will see more corporates come on board and support sports.
“We will have more players turning out to play in the four-day tournament that will be held for the second year running. What started as a small tournament has grown big and we have seen some corporates coming on board,” said Yousuf.
General Manager of NetOne Financial Services, Joseph Machiva said they are happy to be part of this year’s edition and are looking forward to continue supporting it in future.
“As NetOne, we are committed to the 2026 edition as this tournament as more than a game, where sport, business, and national development meet in perfect alignment with Zimbabwe’s vision for innovation and inclusive growth,” said Machiva.
