League of African Ambassadors set for fundraising Golf tournament in Uyo

League of African Ambassadors set for fundraising Golf tournament in Uyo

By Akanimo Kufre

The League of African Ambassadors (LAA), an association of retired and serving African diplomats, will stage a two-day fundraising golf tournament in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on August 29 and 30, 2026, to generate support for 10 strategic initiatives aimed at advancing diplomacy, leadership and sustainable development across Africa.

The tournament will be played at the prestigious Ibom Golf Course, Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, with about 150 golfers expected to compete in an event that will also bring together diplomats, business leaders and stakeholders from across the continent.

Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Ambassador Ben Okonye, said the competition is designed to foster unity among African diplomats while mobilising resources for projects that will strengthen regional cooperation.

"Our core objective is to unite African ambassadors and diplomats through sports and raise funds for some projects very dear to African diplomats," Okonye said.

Among the initiatives to benefit from the fundraiser are the inaugural African Ambassadors Summit, a Peace Building Youth Conference, in-house capacity training for LAA officers and the renegotiation of African Space Governance, alongside other developmental programmes.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mr. Ubong Uwah, expressed confidence that Uyo would once again deliver a successful championship, noting the city's growing reputation as one of Nigeria's leading golf destinations.

"Each time golfers hear about a tournament in Uyo, they always come out in their numbers, like the recently concluded Ibom Open where over 300 golfers showed up. This will again attract lots of guests into Uyo to boost tourism," Uwah said.

He added: "The tournament is hosted by the League of Ambassadors, and the invites will raise funds during the tournament to do something spectacular in the African continent. With our support, they are certain to do more."

The tournament is also expected to attract high-profile dignitaries, including Ambassador Lt. Gen. T.Y. Buratai (Rtd.), a member of the League's Board of Trustees representing West Africa, underscoring the significance of the event in promoting sports diplomacy and continental collaboration.