Hon. Elvis Chishala Nkandu Officially Closes 2024 Region 5 Golf Tournament
The 2024 Region 5 Golf Tournament came to a close on Friday, May 31, with a heartfelt speech by Zambia’s Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, Hon. Elvis Chishala Nkandu, MP.
The event, held at the Lusaka Golf Club, gathered dignitaries, participants, and sponsors for a celebration of sportsmanship and unity.
In his remarks, Hon. Nkandu extended his gratitude to the Africa Golf Confederation and the Zambia Golf Union for their role in organizing the event and inviting him to officiate the closing ceremony.
He welcomed all foreign delegates to Zambia, emphasizing the unifying power of sports.
“Sports is a unifying factor that has brought us from various countries together, and it is imperative to embrace this unity of purpose to make the world a better and peaceful environment for sports to thrive,” he stated.
The Minister congratulated all participants, celebrating both their efforts and sportsmanship. “I wish to congratulate all the golfers who took part in this Region 5 Golf Tournament – win or lose. Your triumph is a celebration of your combined talent, determination, and great sportsmanship,” he said, highlighting the importance of the winner’s role as an ambassador of excellence for the youth.
Hon. Nkandu reiterated the Zambian government’s commitment to developing all sports disciplines, including golf.
He stressed the government’s policy to promote sports as a means of achieving a productive and healthy population.
“It is our wish that this sport can be taken to the grassroots levels so that young people can participate and engage in a variety of sporting activities for their health and personal growth and development,” he added.
Acknowledging the critical role of corporate support in sports development, Hon. Nkandu thanked the tournament sponsors: Royal and Ancient (R&A), ABSA Bank, Trade Kings, Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company, Paveline Construction, and Indeni Petroleum.
He also commended the organizing committee for their dedication and hard work in making the event successful.
The Minister expressed his excitement about the upcoming visit of golf legends to Zambia later in the year, viewing it as an initiative that will further promote the sports fraternity in the country.
He highlighted the economic potential of sports, stating, “Golf and other sports disciplines such as football are no longer mere social events for recreation and entertainment but a major source of income and employment to many youths worldwide.”
In closing, Hon. Nkandu expressed his hopes for a vibrant sports industry in Zambia that can provide decent livelihoods for the youth. “With these few words, I wish to now take this singular honor to declare the 2024 Region 5 Golf Tournament held here at Lusaka Golf Club, Zambia, officially closed. I thank you all, and God bless,” he concluded.
