By Nevison Mpofu
HARARE — Zimbabwe’s flagship golf tournament is set for a high-profile return, with organizers promising world-class competition and increased corporate backing as the 2026 Zimbabwe Open tees off in early May.
The 14th edition of the modern-era Zimbabwe Open Golf Tournament will run from May 3 to May 10, with the main championship rounds scheduled between May 7 and May 10 at Royal Harare Golf Club.
Tournament chairman Livingstone Gwata said organizers are confident the event will build on recent growth and deliver a strong showing both on and off the course.
“This is our 14th Zimbabwe Open since the tournament was relaunched in 2010,” Gwata said during a media briefing that brought together stakeholders, sponsors, and members of the press. “We are looking forward to a highly successful national tournament.”
First held in 1979, the Zimbabwe Open was a staple on the regional golf calendar until 2001, when it was suspended due to foreign currency constraints that made it difficult to pay international players. Its revival over a decade ago has since restored its status as a key sporting event in Southern Africa.
This year’s edition will feature a prize purse of $200,000 (approximately 3 million South African rand), attracting top regional and international golfers competing for honors on one of Zimbabwe’s premier courses.
Corporate backing remains central to the tournament’s resurgence. FBC Holdings Limited returns as title sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, alongside co-hosts ZHL Holdings and Caledonian Mining Corporation, which joins as a new partner.
Additional support comes from anchor partners including Golden Pilsener and Tongaat Hulett, as well as a wide network of contributors such as CIMAS, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, African Sun Limited, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, and ZBC Holdings.
Gwata emphasized that beyond competition, the tournament plays a broader developmental role.
“Our mandate is to stage a national event that showcases world-class golf and inspires young Zimbabwean players,” he said, noting growing support from both corporate sponsors and individual contributors.
Fundraising efforts have also gained traction, with about $9,300 raised from corporate partners and individuals ahead of the tournament.
Trynos Kufazvineyi, chief executive of FBC Holdings, said the tournament has seen significant progress since the company came on board.
“The championship has grown in leaps and bounds over the past five years,” Kufazvineyi said. “We are proud to support an event that continues to attract strong stakeholder participation and deliver tangible results.”
With preparations nearing completion, organizers say expectations are high for a competitive field and strong fan turnout as Zimbabwe positions the Open as a key fixture on the regional golf circuit.
