Zimbabwe Makes History Hosting Africa Footgolf Open Championship

Zimbabwe has become the first African country to host the Africa Footgolf Open Championship, a continental tournament taking place at Elephant Hills in Victoria Falls. The event has drawn over 70 participants from across Africa and Europe, signaling a major milestone for the country’s growing sports tourism sector.

The tournament is expected to deliver significant economic benefits. Projections for the 2026 edition indicate that close to 200 participants, along with their families, will attend, boosting demand for accommodation, local cuisine, and tourism activities.

This achievement follows a string of international recognition for Zimbabwe. The country was named the Number One Destination to Visit in 2025 by Forbes Magazine and is set to co-host the 2026 Under-19 Cricket World Cup with Namibia, further highlighting its rising profile in global sports and tourism.

“Sports tourism is a key driver of economic growth and youth inclusion, fully aligned with the National Development Strategy,” said Tongai Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, during the opening ceremony.

The event has already generated tangible economic impact in Victoria Falls, including higher hotel occupancy, increased patronage of local restaurants, and strong engagement in adventure and cultural tourism activities.

Zimbabwe has secured the hosting rights for the next four editions of the Africa Footgolf Open Championship. This move strengthens the country’s position as a leading sports tourism destination and underscores its commitment to developing events that combine athletic excellence with economic and social benefits.

The championship also highlights Zimbabwe’s potential to attract international sporting events, creating opportunities for local athletes, entrepreneurs, and communities while promoting the country as a premier destination for tourists and sports enthusiasts alike.