The Umthetho Fundraising Golf Tournament held at Lilongwe Golf Club (LGC) on Saturday raised K12 million to support this year’s Umthetho Cultural Festival.
The money will go towards the Jere Ngoni annual event which is slated for August 1-3 at Hora Heritage Centre in Mzimba.
Speaking after the tournament, Inkosi ya Makosi M’mbelwa V, who was accompanied by Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V of the Maseko Ngoni, thanked sponsors for the support towards the festival.
“The tournament was organised on a short notice but sponsors came out and have supported the initiative. We are very thankful for the gesture towards Umthetho Cultural Festival,” he said.
The tournament featured 45 golfers who competed at the LGC’s golf course.
A significant portion of the funds was raised from team fees, with additional money generated through an auction of items such as accommodation for two at Sigelege Resorts and Crossroads Hotel.
I n a n i n t e r v i e w, t h e tournament’s organising chairperson Vizenge Kumwenda said the amount raised surpassed their expectations.
“The Umthetho Gol f Tournament has been very successful, our target was to raise K5 million but we are grateful to have raised more than what we anticipated. We also appreciated the presence of Inkosi ya Makosi Mbelwa V and Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V which added colour to the event,” he said.
On the golf course, Stafford Mpoola and Powell Mkhutabasa emerged the tournament’s champions.
The pair shared their excitement about being part of tournament, emphasising that their involvement also supports cultural promotion.
“We are delighted with our victory today and for being part of this tournament,” said Mpoola.
“It holds special significance for us because we believe that by taking part, we have helped to promote culture in Malawi, and we encourage the public to do the same,” added Mkhutabasa.
Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V praised the tournament, highlighting its importance in promoting culture, which he described as a vital aspect of society while affirming his support for his fellow ngonis in Mzimba.
There were 30 sponsors at the event such as, Royal Motors limited Sigelege Resorts, SeedCo Malawi, Malawi Defence Forces, First Capital Bank, Wezi Medical Clinic, Crossroads Hotel and other individuals.
