Tendai Keith Guvamombe
Zimbabwe has scored a significant victory on the continental stage, becoming the first African nation to successfully host the Africa Footgolf Open Championship at the majestic Elephant Hills in Victoria Falls.
This landmark achievement firmly reinforces the country’s burgeoning reputation as a premier Sports Tourism destination, skillfully merging competitive international sport with its breathtaking natural wonders.
The tournament welcomed over 70 participants from across Africa and Europe, establishing a legacy with Zimbabwe securing the rights to host the next four editions.
This momentum is poised for a massive boost, with the 2026 championship expected to draw close to 200 participants and their families. This success comes right as the country celebrates its recent recognition by Forbes Magazine as the Number One Destination to Visit in 2025, and ahead of co-hosting the 2026 Under-19 Cricket World Cup with Namibia.
The fusion of these high-profile events paints a picture of Zimbabwe as a dynamic, globally recognised travel hotspot.
The championship has already delivered tangible economic benefits to the Victoria Falls resort city. Hotels have reported heightened occupancy, local Zimbabwean cuisine saw increased demand, and tourism and adventure activities experienced strong participation.
Officiating the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa, applauded stakeholders, emphasising the government’s strategic focus on leveraging sport to elevate Zimbabwe’s global visibility.
He highlighted that Sports Tourism is a key driver of Economic Growth and youth inclusion, aligning perfectly with President E.D. Mnangagwa’s National Development Strategy and Vision 2030. This milestone decisively strengthens Zimbabwe’s expanding portfolio of world-class tourism offerings, celebrating the vibrant fusion of Sport, Culture, and Tourism.
