Minister of Tourism Vera Kamtukule says her ministry will explore ways to utilise golf in boosting tourism in the country.

She said this during the closing  of the Region 5 Amateur Golf Challenge in Lilongwe on Saturday.

The minister said golf has proved to be a popular international sport that attracts tourists.

“If we will organise and build golf courses across the country, it can be a major tourist attraction in the country. We will work closely with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Golf Union of Malawi on how best we can grow and market the sport,” said Kamtukule.

She has since called on the corporate world to invest in the sport.

“These should not be ad-hoc sponsorship packages, but long-term investments and the returns are numerous. Golf authorities should also come up with attractive offers to woo companies,” said Kamtukule.

Kamtukule (3rdL) hands trophy to
South African captain

She also commended golf Golf Union of Malawi (GUoM) for the well-organised tournament.

GUoM president Gift Chidya Gondwe promised to work with the Ministry of Tourism to develop the sport.

“We are glad for her presence and her awareness of golf as a tourist attraction and the ministry’s commitment to work with us.

“There is a lot of work to do, especially reviving golf clubs in districts such as Dedza, Thyolo, Kasungu and Mzuzu City.  We had thriving golf courses in these places, but over time they have become desolate,” he said

On the just-ended Golf Challenge, Gondwe downplayed Team Malawi’s lucklustre performance which saw them finish fourth.

He said: “Tournaments like these bring exposure. Opponents like South Africa, Zimbabwe have lots of experience. These golfers have played in Europe, Asia, West Africa and other parts of the world.

“Just playing on the same course, it has been a great learning experience for local golfers. Those are the positives we have taken and will help our youngsters in future tournaments.”

South Africa team captain Altin Van der Merwe thanked the minister for her presence and GUoM for a well-organised tournament.

“Our stay here was wonderful. The golf course was in good shape. Our secret to success is that we have a good coach. In our team we are friends and enjoy playing together,” he said.

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