By Desire Tshuma
BULAWAYO — From the fairways of Bulawayo Country Club to the heart of Zimbabwe’s national development agenda, the President’s Golf Cup is fast becoming a symbol of progress, NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani said on Thursday evening.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony of the 2nd edition, held under the “distinguished patronage and visionary leadership” of President Mnangagwa, Mushanawani said the tournament unfolded “with precision and purpose.”
Day 1 saw professional golfers’ opening rounds. Day 2 brought “highly competitive” play and the President’s Cup Wednesday Club. Day 3 showcased “the future of the sport” through the Junior Golf Tournament and Pro-Am practice. Day 4, the 17th of April, delivered the Pro-Am tournament and the prize-giving.
“Today marks not only the climax of competition, but a celebration of excellence, discipline, and national unity,” he said.
Mushanawani said this year’s edition carried “even greater national significance” as participants transition from the tournament to Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa.
“This deliberate continuity reflects a powerful narrative — that sport, patriotism, and national identity are deeply interconnected. The President’s Cup, therefore, becomes part of a larger national story that celebrates Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, resilience, and collective progress.”
He called the Cup a “compelling driver of sports tourism” that positions Zimbabwe as a destination for international events. In line with National Development Strategy 2, he said, the tournament stimulates hospitality, transport, digital services, and local enterprise while enhancing “Zimbabwe’s global visibility.”
He singled out Mr Gift Omolo, President of the All Africa Golf Federation, who leads more than 31 countries. “We celebrate him as he joins us for the first Presidential Cup in the whole of Africa.”
“For NetOne, being the premier partner in the President’s Cup is symbolic,” Mushanawani said. “It affirms our position not merely as a telecommunications provider, but as a partner in the broader vision of making Zimbabwe a better place.”
“As the backbone of connectivity, we enable the seamless communication, digital amplification, and real-time global engagement that elevate this tournament beyond physical boundaries. Moments created here are shared with the world, contributing to Zimbabwe’s digital footprint and supporting the broader objectives of economic growth and innovation under NDS2.”
He praised “corporate synergy” on display. “The coming together of corporates in support of a shared national platform demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving meaningful impact.”
“Golf itself offers a powerful metaphor for development and human progress,” he said. “It is a game that demands discipline, patience, integrity, and strategic foresight — qualities that are equally essential in building resilient communities and sustainable economies.”
“On the golf course, every fairway navigated and every putt executed reflects calculated decision-making and long-term vision. In the same way, national development requires consistency, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
“As NetOne, we are reinforcing our identity as a forward-looking, impact-driven organization — one that is deeply embedded in Zimbabwe’s growth story,” Mushanawani said.
“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 journey towards Vision 2030 by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe.”
He closed to applause: “We saw golfers swing for the President’s Cup. Swing for Excellence. Swing for Progress. Swing for Connectivity. Swing for Unity. Swing for Independence.”
“Thank you, enjoy the rest of your evening and congratulations to all our winners as well as to all participants for your remarkable display of skill, discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.”
The 2nd President’s Golf Cup drew professionals, amateurs, and juniors from across Zimbabwe and the continent, with organisers declaring it a key fixture on the country’s sporting calendar.