Golf fraternity mourns passing away of former TGU Chairman

ARUSHA: THE Tanzanian golf fraternity is in mourning following the sudden passing away of former Tanzania Golf Union (TGU) Chairman, Chris Martin, on the night of August 4, 2025.

TGU Chairman, Gilman Kasiga, was the first to confirm the news, saying on Tuesday: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing away of former TGU Chairman Chris Martin, who died on the night of August 4, 2025.”

Martin’s close friend, Deogratius Mushi, also confirmed the loss to the ‘Daily News’, stating: “He passed away on Monday night at 9:45 at Mount Meru Hospital in Arusha. For me, it’s a personal loss.”

Martin was 68 years old. His distinguished public service career included roles in the Cooperative Department, as an assistant to the late Prime Minister Edward Moringe Sokoine and later in a special post in Italy where he served for nearly 30 years.

At the time of his death, Chris was serving as the Director for Region 4 of the African Golf Confederation, a position he had held since 2022 after completing his term as TGU Chairman. Mushi shared further details, recalling their final conversation with Martin.

“Chris called me around 11:00 am on Monday and said he was not feeling well. I advised him to see a doctor. After tests, it was found that his heart vessels had enlarged. He said the doctor recommended he rests.

“A few hours later, his condition worsened and he was admitted to the ICU. Sadly, he passed away later that night. Ironically, just over the weekend, he had driven to and from Tanga for a family event.”

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The golf community across the region has expressed shock and sadness at Martin’s passing away, remembering him as a dedicated leader and a pillar of the sport in Tanzania.

TPC Moshi Golf Club Captain, Jafari Ally, expressed heartfelt condolences saying “It is with profound sadness that we learned of the passing away of the esteemed former TGU Chairman, Chris Martin.

“On behalf of TPC Golf Club, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and the entire golf fraternity in Tanzania.”

He noted that Martin’s legacy and dedication have left an indelible mark on the TGU and all clubs he was associated with. Brigadier General Kombani Kalino, Captain of the MDF Golf Club in Malawi, also paid tribute added: “We at MDF Golf Club are deeply saddened by Chris’s passing.

On behalf of all our members, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Martin family and the TGU team. “Chris was a remarkable individual. His presence, dedication and spirit left a lasting impact.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Martin family and all golf members during this difficult time.”