SKC during last year’s edition of the Standard Bank Be More Golf
* This year, we lost a great sportsman who was also a great golfer, and he graced last year’s BeMore golf tournament
* SKC was an ardent sportsman; appearing at any charitable cause in the patriotic spirit that also included Standard Bank’s flagship charity event, the Be More Race
By Duncan Mlanjira
Former Vice-President, late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) was a regular feature at every major sports charity events, including the Standard Bank BeMore Golf tournament, and in his honour, a minute of silence was observed for this year’s edition at Lilongwe Golf Club yesterday.
The moment was initiated by Standard Bank Plc Chief Executive, Phillip Madinga during prize presentation, saying: “This year, we lost a great sportsman who was also a great golfer, and he graced last year’s BeMore golf tournament.
“For this reason, shall we all stand to observe a minute of silence to honor the late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, may his soul continue resting in peace.”
And indeed SKC was an ardent sportsman; appearing at any charitable cause in the patriotic spirit that also included Standard Bank’s flagship chairity event, the Be More Race.
His tragic death through the aircraft crash on June 10, along with former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri — former wife to former President Bakili Muluzi — and seven others, devastated many people’s hearts, much more to those who knew him up close.
Thus it was befitting that the golfers honour him for his selfless volunteerism towards charity, and he would probably have been present for this year’s edition — themed; ‘Sustainable Swing’, whose proceeds would be channeled towards Kamuzu Central Hospital’s Children’s Cancer Centre.
Madinga then followed up his presentation, describing the day as “fantastic” in which “an incredible round of golf was witnessed”.
“On behalf of Standard Bank, I want to extend a huge congratulations to all who participated in the tournament. Your skills, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game have been truly inspiring — and, of course, a special congratulations to our winners, who we will have the honor to recognise shortly.”
He emphasised that this year’s tournament “has been more than just about golf — it was about demonstrating how the right support, the right partnership, and the right financial services can help individuals and organisations thrive”.
“Just as each golfer strategically plans their game, making every swing count, we believe that with the right financial partner, every decision you make in your business or personal life can set you up for success.
“And that partner is none other than, Standard Bank. At Standard Bank, we are proud to be a financial solutionist, a true testament to our core purpose; Malawi is Our Home, We Drive Her Growth.
“Standard Bank understands that growth — whether in business or life — is a journey. It’s not about taking one giant leap, but about making informed decisions that include having the right support and taking each step with confidence.
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“This year we have themed the tournament; ‘Sustainable Swing’ which aims to showcase our commitment to sustainability and ensuring economic growth. We are honored not only to celebrate the spirit of the game with all of you but also to highlight the very important theme that brings us together today — sustainability.
“In recent years, sustainability has moved from a peripheral concern to a core value in many sectors — including banking. At Standard Bank, we are committed to embedding sustainable practices into our operations, from reducing our carbon footprint to financing projects that have a positive and social impact earmarked to grow the economy.
“We recognize that every swing, every shot, and every decision — whether on the green or in the boardroom — has the power to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Madinga in action
Camaraderie was enjoyed by all
“As we enjoy this beautiful engagement today, I challenge each of you to reflect on your personal responsibility towards our communities, country, and our planet.
“I want to challenge you on your commitment towards sustainability. What actions are you taking today to ensure a sustainable tomorrow Remember every small step counts and that if you had not yet started, you can take that important step today — don’t be left behind.
“Golf has always been a game of precision and strategy. Let’s apply that same mindset to sustainability. How can we innovate and lead by example in our daily lives and businesses? By making conscious choices, we can drive significant change and inspire others to follow suit.
“Sustainability is a collective effort. It calls for collective action on the economy, environment, and community well being.”
He added that the country’s “current tough economic situation calls for pragmatic action — and wisdom — to bring about calm and stability. Economic stability is a prerequisite to achieving sustainable national growth that will unlock inclusive wealth as envisioned in our #MW2063 blueprint.
“As a nation, we must also continue to deal with the challenge of climate-change decisively and collectively to protect the environment on which the livelihoods of many of our people depend upon through agriculture.
“Today, therefore, as we come together on this course, let’s strengthen our resolve and commitment to contribute to a better future. The question is, how can we collaborate and support each other in making sustainable decisions? Together, we can create a lasting impact for future generations.”
He thus congratulated all who emerged winners, saying: “Your performance today has been a testament to your skill, perseverance, and focus. Just as you’ve excelled on the golf course, we hope that you continue to achieve great things in all your endeavors, with the right financial tools and support behind you.
The winners pose with Madinga
“Whether you walked away with a prize or not, you’ve all demonstrated what it takes to succeed — strategy, dedication and the willingness to take on challenges with confidence.
Let’s continue to grow together and ensure sustainability — just as today’s event has proven, great things happen when we work together, whether it’s in business or on the golf course.”
Each of the winners in both men’s and women’s category of the individual medal format tournament, walked away with a trophy and K1.5 million cash.
They were men’s champion Anas Tutla with a score of 82/69 and ladies champion Saira Chaudry (98/74) while the men’s runner-up was Pte Kelvin Mpanje on score of 82/70 (trophy plus K1 million) with State House Presidential Secretary Anthony Kasunda coming 3rd on 83/71 (trophy plus K750,000).
The ladies’ runner-up was Chaona Kumbani on 110/74 (trophy plus K1 million) and Christine Masaiti on 3rd on 104/76 (trophy plus K750,000.
Subsidiary prizes went together with trophy plus K150,000 cash prize that had Austin Amiuni winning nearest to pin for men and Saira Chaudry for ladies with longest drive for ladies going to Bridget Banda and men’s to Joe Opiyo.
Hole number 14 fastest 4 ball (5 minutes) to team of Lilongwe Golf Club captain Maziko Kumbani, Gift Kawamba, Brigadier General K. Kalino and Narendra Joshi.
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