NETONE chief executive officer Raphael Mushanawani says the second edition of the President’s Golf Cup has cemented its place as a key national sporting event, bringing together excellence, unity and economic opportunity.
The tournament, held over four days from April 14 to 17, drew professional, amateur and junior golfers in a structured competition that began with opening rounds for professionals and concluded with the Pro-Am event and prize-giving ceremony on April 17.
Mushanawani said the event, held under the patronage of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, reflects a growing culture of sporting excellence while reinforcing national identity.
“It is a great honour and privilege to welcome you to the second edition of the President’s Golf Cup, where we have witnessed a remarkable convergence of sporting excellence, national pride and strategic collaboration,” he said.
Mushanawani outlined how the tournament progressed from professional contests to junior development platforms, describing it as a celebration of discipline and unity.
The NetOne boss highlighted that this year’s edition carried added significance as it fed into the country’s Independence Day celebrations held in Maphisa, Matabeleland South.
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“This deliberate continuity reflects a powerful narrative that sport, patriotism, and national identity are deeply interconnected,” he said.
Mushanawani added that the President’s Golf Cup has become a strategic tool for sports tourism, aligning with the government’s National Development Strategy 2.
“Such platforms stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors, from hospitality and transport to digital services and local enterprise development,” he said.
He noted that the presence of Africa Golf Federation president Gift Omolo, who leads more than 30 countries, elevated the tournament’s continental status.
“We celebrate his presence as he joins us for the first Presidential Cup in the whole of Africa,” Mushanawani said.
As the main partner, NetOne reaffirmed its commitment to national development beyond telecommunications.
“For NetOne, being the premier partner affirms our position not merely as a telecommunications provider, but as a partner in the broader vision of making Zimbabwe a better place,” he said.
He added that the company’s role in connectivity ensured the tournament reached a global audience.
“Moments created here are shared with the world, contributing to Zimbabwe’s digital footprint and supporting economic growth and innovation,” said Mushanawani.
He also emphasised the importance of corporate collaboration in driving impactful national initiatives.
“The coming together of corporates in support of a shared national platform demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving meaningful impact,” the executive said.
Using golf as a metaphor, Mushanawani said the sport reflects values necessary for national development, such as discipline, patience and strategic thinking.
“In the same way, national development requires consistency, precision and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” he said.
Mushanawani added that the President’s Cup is not just about sport but about shaping leadership and human development.
“The President’s Cup nurtures not only sporting talent but also the values that underpin leadership and human development,” he said.
Mushanawani said NetOne remains committed to contributing to Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 through initiatives that connect people and create opportunities.
“The President’s Cup is not just an event we partner in; it is a reflection of who we are, a connector of people, a catalyst for opportunity, and a proud contributor to Zimbabwe’s growth story,” he said.
The inaugural edition of the tournament was launched last year, setting the foundation for what is fast becoming one of the country’s flagship golf events.