Mopani Copper Mines Chief Executive Officer Charles Sakanya has praised the Zambia Open Golf Championship for its growing positive impact on young people in Kitwe. His remarks highlighted how the tournament has evolved beyond sport to become a platform for youth development, opportunity creation and community transformation. Speaking through MCM representative Rajiv Bayal at the Zambia Open Golf Championship chairman’s cocktail, Sakanya emphasized that the mining company values its investment in sport when it directly benefits local communities. He noted that the championship continues to open pathways for young people to pursue their ambitions in both sport and life. His comments reinforced the role of corporate sponsorship in driving social development alongside sporting excellence.
Sakanya stated that Mopani Copper Mines derives deep satisfaction not only from sponsoring sport but from witnessing meaningful change among young participants. He explained that many youths from surrounding communities are now gaining exposure, skills and motivation through their involvement in the tournament. According to him, sport has become a powerful tool for shaping discipline, focus and ambition among young people in Kitwe. He emphasized that these opportunities allow young people to dream bigger while also giving them practical platforms to showcase their talent. This transformation, he said, reflects the broader social responsibility commitments of the mining company.
He further highlighted that the Mopani Zambia Open has developed into more than a golf tournament over the years. It now serves as a meeting point for sport, business and local communities, creating a unique environment for networking and collaboration. Sakanya noted that the event showcases world class golfing talent while also promoting values such as teamwork, dedication and discipline. He added that this combination of sport and community engagement has strengthened the tournament’s relevance in Zambia’s sporting landscape. The growing prestige of the championship reflects its ability to connect different sectors in meaningful ways.
The tournament has continued to expand since 2014, strengthening Zambia’s profile in regional and international golf. It has also contributed to the economic and social development of Kitwe by attracting visitors, sponsors and sporting professionals. Nkana Golf Club chairperson Lynot Tangayi acknowledged the importance of sponsorship support in ensuring the success of the event. He admitted that there was initial concern when the US$150,000 budget took time to be fully secured, but expressed relief as partners came on board. His remarks highlighted the financial demands of hosting a tournament of this scale and the importance of consistent support.
Kitwe District Commissioner Oncemore Ngonomo described the Zambia Open Golf Championship as one of the country’s flagship sporting events. He said the tournament plays a key role in strengthening friendship, unity and community engagement through sport. According to him, the event brings together participants and spectators from different backgrounds, fostering national cohesion. He emphasized that sport remains a powerful unifying force that contributes to social development. His comments reflected the broader national value of the tournament beyond competition alone.
Organising committee chairperson Noel Simwanza said the championship has grown into one of Zambia’s premier sporting events. He noted that it now provides a platform for both local and international golfers to showcase their talent on a competitive stage. Simwanza highlighted the increasing partnership between the Sunshine Tour and the Zambia Golf Union as a sign of growing confidence in Zambia’s capacity to host world class tournaments. He said this collaboration has helped raise the profile of the event and attract higher levels of participation. The tournament’s evolution reflects its rising importance within the regional golf calendar.
Nkana Golf Club Captain Philip Bwembya also emphasized the significance of the tournament within Zambia’s sporting schedule. He said it continues to bring together golfers, sponsors and stakeholders from across borders. According to him, the event has become a key fixture that promotes competitiveness and sporting excellence. He added that the presence of international participants enhances the experience for local players. This interaction contributes to the development of golf standards in the country.
One of the standout moments of the championship came during the Integrated Engineering Services Pro-Am, where Nkana golfer Kennedy Likomeno made headlines after achieving a hole in one. His shot on the par three 11th hole earned him a brand new Toyota Land Cruiser sponsored by CFAO Zambia. This marked the first time in the history of the Mopani Zambia Open that a CFAO-sponsored vehicle has been won. The achievement added excitement and visibility to the tournament, drawing attention from spectators and participants. Organisers also noted that three additional cars remain up for grabs for any golfer who achieves a hole in one during the championship.
The Zambia Open Golf Championship continues to grow as a major sporting and community development platform in Kitwe and beyond. Its impact now extends beyond the golf course, influencing youth development, economic activity and community engagement. Mopani Copper Mines’ ongoing support reinforces the importance of corporate involvement in sport as a tool for empowerment. With continued investment and collaboration, the tournament is expected to expand its reach and influence even further. The championship stands as a strong example of how sport can drive opportunity, unity and long term development in Zambia.