Story by Tichaona Kurewa
VICTORIA Falls has strengthened its position as one of Africa’s emerging sport-tourism destinations after hosting the Africa Footgolf Championship, the first event of its kind to be staged on the continent.
The tournament, which drew participants from Europe and across Africa, offered the Resort City an opportunity to showcase its hospitality, natural beauty and growing capacity to host major international sporting events. Local officials say the momentum reflects Victoria Falls’ ambition to stand alongside global sport-tourism hubs such as Dubai and Las Vegas.
Participants expressed admiration for both the destination and the newly established footgolf course.
“I went to the Victoria Falls yesterday, it is something out of this world and I would not mind coming back with my family, even without playing, just to enjoy this. I love Zimbabwe,” a participant said.
“I have enjoyed my three beautiful days on the golf course and in Victoria Falls so far.The course has a great setup, I would call it a Champions League outfit. The people are welcoming, and we are enjoying the game,” another added.
Officials underscored the importance of the tournament in promoting sport tourism and driving economic growth.
“Having this event come to Victoria Falls is a major plus because sport contributes to economic development and unity. We are already seeing the benefits, with teams from Slovenia, Zambia, Morocco and many other countries now here in Zimbabwe,” chairperson of the Zimbabwe Sports and Recreation Commission, Dr Nathaniel Madzivanyika said.
“It brings in new visitors and also encourages returning guests to try a fresh, exciting activity, one you can learn in just five minutes,” president of the International Footgolf Association, Aleks Kravanja noted.
“We chose Victoria Falls as a signpost. It is a heritage site and one of the natural wonders of the world. It is also a way to celebrate Zimbabwe’s rapid growth in footgolf, which is supported by an education-based model,” African Footgolf Association’s president, Norman Mwemisi Mpake said.
Countries participating include Germany, Morocco, South Africa, Zambia, Angola and host nation Zimbabwe.
This year’s Africa Championship also sercves as a qualifying event for the Footgolf World Cup set for Mexico next year, adding a competitive edge to the three-day programme.
Footgolf, established around 2008 in the Netherlands and introduced in Zimbabwe in 2023, combines football-style kicking with golf scoring.
Players aim to complete each hole in the fewest kicks, following rules similar to golf but using a football.
Only kicks are allowed, and a hole is complete once the ball comes to rest inside it.
Other major international sporting events recently hosted in Victoria Falls include the Sterling Hotels International Pairs Golf Tournament and the 15th International Military Sports Council (CISM) Golf Tournament.
