Karim, Kavala Win Standard Bank Be More Invitational Golf Tournament

Muhammad Karim and Doreen Kavala were crowned winners in the men’s and ladies’ categories respectively at the Standard Bank Be More Invitational Golf Tournament, held at Blantyre Sports Club from Friday to Saturday.

The event, returning to the venue for the first time in four years, also featured a special category for Standard Bank staff.

An elated Kavala said this was a massive win after a two-year haitus from the game. She said: “I am picking up pace from where I left off and hopefully build momentum from this win.”

Standard Bank Chief Executive Officer Phillip Madinga said the tournament successfully fostered networking and strengthened business partnerships.

Held under the theme “Yours 247”, the tournament, held over two days, aimed not only to promote wellness but also to reconnect with customers in the southern region—a key market for the bank.

Speaking during the event, the bank’s Chief Executive Officer Phillip Madinga expressed gratitude to the board and management of Standard Bank for allowing the tournament’s return to Blantyre, highlighting its importance in fostering relationships with a large base of customers in the region.

“This tournament is about more than just golf. It’s about celebrating partnerships and promoting wellness while reinforcing our digital transformation agenda under the theme ‘Yours 24/7’.” Madinga elaborated

He also emphasized that the event served as a platform to showcase the bank’s digital banking platforms tailored for personal, business, SME, and corporate customers.

These include the Smart App for personal banking, Business Online for corporate clients and Enterprise Online for Small and Medium Entrpreneur (SMEs).

Madinga added that Standard Bank remains committed to driving Malawi’s growth, noting that improving foreign exchange generation is critical for national development.

He said: “Our purpose is to drive Malawi’s growth. We believe Malawi is our home, and we are here to make a difference in people’s lives, businesses and communities.”

He then called on the business community to explore investment opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining and manufacturing to enhance forex generation.

The Be More Golf tournament also drew various business leaders and executives, providing an opportunity for strategic dialogue and networking aimed at fostering economic development.