On Friday, July 26, 2024, the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe (MAZ) held its eighth annual Charity Golf Day at the picturesque ZRP Golf Club, with the theme #SwingForACause. The event, grounded in the biblical principle from 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, celebrated the power of generous giving: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

This year’s tournament saw over 30 corporate teams teeing off for a cause, aiming to raise funds for educational support. Proceeds from the event will be used to supply essential books to Gomoza Primary in Lupane District and Bango Primary in Mangwe District through a partnership with College Press. This initiative seeks to provide students with the resources necessary to foster a love of learning and achieve academic success.

The competition was thrilling, with a notable shift in the leaderboard as men dominated this year’s event. Daniel C. Zinyengere took home the coveted Agrippa Mugwagwa Trophy as the overall winner. Mutausi finished in second place, followed by Nomathemba Ngwenya in third, Onismo Takadiyi in fourth, and Kudzai Gono in fifth. In the ladies’ category, Nomathemba Ngwenya was awarded Best Lady, while Margaret Kwenda excelled in both Nearest the Pin on the ladies’ hole and Longest Drive, alongside Sharon Mundawaro. On the men’s side, Kanyemba won Nearest the Pin, and Onismo Takadiyi and Kudzai Nyabanga were recognized for the Longest Drive.

The auction was a standout feature, offering a variety of items including an 80AH Solar Exide Battery, a Deridon Travel and Tours voucher for a two-night stay in Nyanga, an African Sun voucher for two nights at Troutbeck, and more. Addy “Chaga” Chagaresango ZBC Classic 263 led the auction, generating enthusiastic bids and significantly contributing to the event’s success.

Lenox Mhlanga, Chairperson of the MAZ Charity Foundation Committee, emphasized the significance of the evening. “Tonight is more than a celebration; it’s a testament to our collective commitment to community upliftment and social responsibility,” Mhlanga said. He introduced the newly appointed committee members and extended heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of the event.

Enia Zimunya, Head of Marketing and Operations, highlighted the MAZ Charity Foundation’s significant achievements. “Our foundation has been deeply involved in various community support initiatives,” Zimunya said. “From our ‘Donate a Shoe’ campaign, which provided school shoes to children in Gutu and Matthew Rusike, to our response to Cyclone Idai with essential relief efforts, our aim has always been to make a meaningful impact.”

Zimunya continued, “We also supported the Albino Association of Zimbabwe with sunscreen lotion through the ‘Donate a Hat’ campaign and donated food baskets to Epworth Methodist Church as part of the ‘Donate a Basket’ program. Our ‘Rescue-A-Teen from Substance Abuse’ initiative established a chicken project in Ziko, Chitungwiza, providing a fowl run for 1,500 birds to support youth, and we contributed toiletries and basic goods to Chinhoyi Prison Depot through the ‘Prisons Campaign,’ along with roofing, plastering, and painting Masasa Clinic in Buhera District.”

“Our current focus is on enhancing educational opportunities,” Zimunya added. “Partnering with College Press allows us to equip schools with essential resources for academic success, fostering a love for learning among students.”

The event’s success was supported by numerous sponsors. Bronze Sponsor Econet was joined by National Foods (LTD), Proton Bakers, Dairibord, Exide, Zinara, and Esnell. The sponsors included TSL Limited, Fine & Country, Lobel’s Bread, Zimnat, and Premier Corporate Gifts. Media partners Financial Gazette and Daily News provided extensive coverage, and Premier Corporate Gifts also sponsored the event’s apparel.

As the evening drew to a close, the sense of community and shared purpose was palpable. The MAZ Charity Golf Day not only showcased thrilling golf but also reinforced the power of collective generosity in driving meaningful change.

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