THE government, through the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, has been urged to create a policy that encourages greater participation in golf, particularly among children and youth, and to challenge the perception that the sport is only for the wealthy.

Speaking recently at the Gymkhana grounds in Arusha, Gymkhana Arusha Club Treasurer Lawrence Ogutu stressed that the sport's growth in Tanzania is hindered by the belief that golf is an elite activity. 

He called on the government to implement a policy or system that promotes inclusivity and broadens access to the sport.

"There is a mindset among Tanzanians that golf is for the rich. I want to assure you that this is a sport like any other, and anyone can participate. 

“Therefore, I call on the government to create a policy or inclusive system to encourage more people to engage in this sport," said Ogutu.

Ogutu, with over ten years of experience in golf, highlighted the lack of participation from government officials, particularly from the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports and the Arusha Region, in the sport's development. 

He argued that golf offers opportunities for youth, not only as a form of recreation but also as a potential career path.

"Golf, like other sports, is an opportunity for our youth because it is also a source of employment. Therefore, it is essential for our government to first create a policy to increase the number of practice grounds and to involve children in schools. 

“Those who show talent can be nurtured, leading to a strong national team and skilled players who can compete internationally," he added.

Abbas Lalji, Captain of the Gymkhana Golf Club Arusha, shared that the club hosts golf tournaments every weekend, contingent on sponsorship, to improve the sport's standards and boost participation. 

However, he noted that the number of new participants remains low.

"Despite this system, which is indeed effective, the number of participants is not very high. I hope that in the future, as more sponsors come forward, the number of participants will continue to increase, and this sport will become more popular," said Lalji.

Golf stakeholder Ravneet Choudhry highlighted the club's ongoing sponsorship of golf competitions in Arusha as part of their corporate social responsibility. 

He added that their efforts extend beyond sports, with initiatives such as tree planting activities in schools and public institutions to promote environmental conservation.

In this week's tournament, 46 participants competed, with notable winners including Raju Lodhia, who scored 40 points; Luu Lodhia with 39 points; Mukuwaran Jamal with 38 points; Lawrence George Ogutu with 37 points; and women's winner Bella Sikuwatha, who scored 38 points.