Minister of Sport, Youth and Arts Elvis Nkandu has emphasized the role of sport in national development, noting that it promotes health, social cohesion, and economic growth. Nkandu made the remarks in a speech delivered on his behalf by Director of Sport Gibson Muyaule during the North vs South Golf Challenge in Lusaka on Saturday.
The minister highlighted golf as a sport that is attracting both young and older participants, aligning with government policy to encourage wide participation across all sports, from grassroots to elite levels. “It is a growing economic sector. I urge the golf fraternity to link up and network with local authorities in order to support local initiatives because the next great golfer could be waiting in the playground,” Nkandu said.
Nkandu also expressed gratitude to Vivo Energy Zambia for its continued support, praising the company’s commitment to growing sport in the country. “Your support fuels competition, inspires excellence, and lights up the sporting calendar,” he added.
Vivo Energy Zambia Managing Director Edward Walugembe welcomed the turnout and pledged continued sponsorship of the event, which the company helped revive last year. Walugembe suggested that next year’s edition should be held in Copperbelt Province and thanked the Zambia Golf Union (ZGU) for making the North vs South Golf Challenge a premier event on its calendar.
The tournament, held during Zambia’s Independence week, was described by officials as a platform for unity and inspiration. The Willie Kasempa-led organizing committee was commended for ensuring strong participation and a successful event.
On the competition front, the South team dominated the Four-Ball-Better-Ball Stableford format, scoring 26 points compared to North’s 14. In the pairs, Nachi Musonda and Paul Malambo won with 54 points, narrowly beating Willie Musonda and Leo Liambela, who scored 53 points.
At 85 years old, Chandrakant Vaghela was the standout performer, finishing third with 50 points alongside partner Mayoor Patel. Yusuf Mia and Nazir Pandor secured fourth place with 49 points, while Yousuf Essa and Gibson Phiri took fifth with 48 points.
In another category, Killian Hapwita and Denmark Mulambo edged out Humphrey Chisanga and Stallian Daka by a point, scoring 38 points in the North vs South Four-Ball-Better-Ball Stableford competition.
The event showcased talent across age groups and highlighted the growing popularity of golf in Zambia, reinforcing government and private sector efforts to develop sport as both a competitive and economic asset.