Pindi assures golf bodies of govt support

MASSIVE boost as golf and other sports bodies have been assured of the government’s full support in bringing in quality coaches as part of the mission and vision set by President Samia Suluhu to promote the country internationally through sports.

Pindi Chana, the Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, unveiled that while addressing golfers during the Exim Lugalo Ladies Golf Open tournament that climaxed at the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) Lugalo club, Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

The weekend golf showdown decorated the Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC) player, Neema Olomi as the overall winner after posting an aggregate 156 strokes on her way to the diadem.

Minister Pindi said the ministry is looking forward to bringing international coaches, including golf, similar to what it does for youths and senior national football teams.

“President Samia Suluhu is fond of sports. For instance, the national soccer team coach is on the government’s payroll, and a plan is underway for other sports as well,” she stressed.

“President Samia’s vision is to place Tanzania in the spotlight through sports, and our job is to ensure we meet the goal.”

The Minister also commended Lugalo Club under the chairmanship of Brigadier General (rtd) Michael Luwongo for the great work they have been doing to develop the game.

In addition to handing over trophies and prizes to the winners, the Minister also launched the new Tanzania Ladies Golf Union (TLGU) logo and complimented them for their creativity.

According to TLGU President, Queen Seraki, the new logo represents how a ladies’ golfer carries the Tanzanian flag high locally and internationally.

Pindi added: “The ministry is influencing and advising creativity in sports leadership, and TLGU is doing well.”

Luwongo also saluted TLGU for their excellent work in preparing their tournament from the preparation stage and, more amazingly, the results report, which leaves no doubt to all participants.

“Everything is exceptionally excellent and clear. I strongly urge other tournament committees to follow their format and system. It is no shame to learn from them. I am sure everyone in the club is happy and satisfied with what we see.

“Well done, TLGU and Lugalo Ladies Section, for a remarkable organisation of Exim Lugalo Ladies Open 2023. Great dedication from President Queen Seraki, Ladies Section Captain Hawa Wanyeche, and the entire organising Committee,” added Luwongo.

TLGU president, on behalf of TLGU and the Ladies Section of the Lugalo Club, extended their appreciation to Minister Pindi, Luwongo, and main sponsors Exim Bank and co-sponsors Hill Water, Serena Hotels, Akiba Commercial Bank, In Focus Ltd, Coca Cola Kwanza and Doloka prints for making it possible.

“I want to thank you for the time and efforts made by the club management, professional golfers, and members for providing the much-needed assistance and making this tournament eventful,” she said.

“In a special way… our appreciation goes to Lugalo Chairman Luwongo for your endless support and recognition.”

She said that this is their first competition since the new leadership came to power, and the launch of a new logo is a sign that the union is taking a new look to be more solid with a big vision thus she thanked the Minister for being part of the history and she promised her to do great things.

The competition saw Olomi emerge the overall winner after grossing 156 aggregate strokes after the end of 36- hole event.

In addition to trophies and other prizes, Olomi snatched an Exim prepaid card worth 500,000/-.

Host captain Hawa Wanyeche finished the overall runner-up with 161 aggregate score while Vicky Elias, also from Lugalo Club, finished third with 167 gross.