The International Pairs Golf Tournament has evolved into one of Africa’s most important business and networking forums. Now in its twenty‑seventh year, the event arrived in Ghana in 2023 under the exclusive licence of Legends Sports Management (LSM). What began as a two‑person sporting competition now unites business leaders, investors and entrepreneurs from more than thirty countries, including the United States, Europe, Asia and across Africa.
“Participants aren’t just representing Ghana in golf,” explained Mr. Abdul‑Aziz Amankwa, a multiple award winner in the golf scene and the tournament’s licensed organiser in Ghana. “They are entering a global business environment.” The event is structured to facilitate high‑level networking: business lounges, informal meet‑ups on the course and evening receptions allow participants to exchange ideas, explore joint ventures and negotiate investment opportunities.
Each edition of the tournament launch also showcases complementary industries. This year’s theme, “Fairways and Flavours,” will feature culinary demonstrations and tastings from leading food brands in Ghana and South Africa. Previous tournaments have incorporated live art exhibitions and fashion showcases, giving designers and artists direct access to international buyers and investors.
“What we’re building is a business festival anchored on golf,” Mr. Amankwa said. “It is about creating value for participants and opening up space for African businesses to be seen, heard and invested in.” Despite its high‑net‑worth audience, securing corporate sponsorship remains a challenge. “Sponsorship remains our biggest headache,” he noted. “Golf is often viewed as exclusive, so many brands hesitate to invest.”
For banks, insurance firms, fintech companies and premium‑lifestyle brands, the tournament offers a direct line to influential decision‑makers. Small and medium‑sized enterprises in agribusiness, hospitality, tourism, fashion and technology can also benefit by exhibiting products and discussing distribution or supply contracts with global delegates.
This further opens doors to leverage sports for economic growth, the International Pairs Golf Tournament demonstrates how a sporting event can drive investment, foster partnerships and elevate homegrown enterprises onto the world stage.
Qualifying rounds will be held throughout May at premier courses in Greater Accra, the Western Region and the Ashanti Region. In each qualifier, the top thirty percent of finishers will secure a place in the national playoffs. The winning pair will earn an all‑expenses‑paid trip to SunCity, South Africa, to represent Ghana at the world finals. Competitors who do not advance can still join as self‑sponsored entrants, ensuring that the tournament remains open to executives and owners who wish to engage with its global business community.
