Zim Open tees up for cancer fight

Brandon Moyo

The 2025 FBC Zimbabwe Open is shaping up to be more than just a premier golf spectacle – it’s teeing off a new era of purpose-driven sport.

As excitement builds for the country’s flagship tournament, set for May 4-11 at Royal Harare Golf Club, organisers have announced bold plans to transform the event into a national wellness movement, beginning with a campaign against cancer.

This year’s edition will mark the launch of the Zim Open Wellness Fund, a ground-breaking initiative aimed at raising awareness around health and wellness while positioning partner brands as champions of social change.

Initially focusing on cancer awareness and treatment, the fund will expand in 2026 to spotlight mental health. The long-term goal is to promote early detection, improve access to care, and support affected communities – all while raising money through the tournament and its partners.

The initiative is being supported by the Zimbabwe Open Committee, sponsors, and stakeholders who see the potential to turn the tournament into a lasting platform for public good.

Funds raised this year will directly support cancer screening and early detection efforts, provide treatment access for under-resourced patients, and back nationwide public education campaigns.

Zimbabwe Open Committee chairperson, Livingstone Gwata, speaking at the official press conference on Tuesday at Royal Harare, called for nationwide support.

“In addition to golf development goals, we are pleased to announce that the 2025 event will provide a platform to facilitate the mobilisation of funds towards charitable causes.

“This noble initiative will focus on cancer treatment and we call upon both members of the public and corporate bodies to join us in making a difference to the wellness of our communities. We will be sharing details of how you can participate in the coming weeks,” said Gwata.

He also extended his gratitude to title sponsors FBC Holdings for continuing their support for the fourth consecutive year.

Gwata hailed the presence of Sunshine Tour Tournament Director Gary Todd at the launch, calling it a significant endorsement of the event’s growing stature.

“We are most grateful to our sponsors and their partners who have committed their premier brands to our national premier tournament.

“There are many partners that have made our event possible and successful. We are most grateful to FBC Holdings Limited for their significant contribution and support as Title Sponsors for the 4th year in a row.

“Gary Todd, the Sunshine Tour Tournament director, who is here with us, will share with you their experience. To us this recognition is indeed a very special accolade considering that the Sunshine Tour is the biggest tour on the African continent and certainly a major tour worldwide,” said Gwata.

FBC has committed US$200 000 to retain its title sponsorship, cementing the Zimbabwe Open’s status as one of the top three events on the Sunshine Tour.

FBC Holdings Group CEO Trynos Kufazvinei said the sponsorship reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to sport and community impact.

“This sponsorship is a testament to the FBC Group’s commitment to support development and social impact. FBC Holdings is a responsible corporate leader which is committed to making meaningful contributions to the social, environmental and economic well-being of the communities we serve. Our corporate social responsibility efforts are informed by the evolving needs of society at large,” he said.

Zimbabwe Golf Association (ZGA) president Martin Chikwana said this year’s event is expected to be the best yet, both in quality and scope.

“The 2025 edition of the Zimbabwe Open promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With a fantastic field of professional golfers from both Zimbabwe and beyond, we are confident that this year’s tournament will continue to raise the profile of Zimbabwe as a premier golfing destination and further cement the Zimbabwe Open’s position as a key event on the Sunshine Tour.

“I would also like to express our deep gratitude to all our other partners and stakeholders, including the Sunshine Tour officials, the Zimbabwe Professional Golfers, and officials representing the Sports and Recreation Commission, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, and of course, the hosting province, HPGU.

“Your collaboration is invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to work together to make this event a resounding success. We look forward to a memorable tournament in May,” said Chikwana.

A total of 144 golfers, including at least 17 local professionals and five amateurs, will take part in the 2025 FBC Zimbabwe Open.

Last year’s edition was won by South African Michael Hollick, who finished with a score of -20. – @brandon_malvin.