Success Is No Excuse for Poor Planning: A Call for Better Preparation in Rwanda’s Golf Future

As we reflect on the successes in the development of golf in Rwanda, it’s clear that our nation has made great strides. We’ve hosted important regional and international tournaments, expanded our golf infrastructure, and elevated the level of competition for our young athletes. But even as we celebrate these accomplishments, we must face the reality that success can sometimes mask the need for better planning and preparation.

It’s easy to bask in the glow of a well-executed event or the impressive performances of our athletes. However, behind the scenes, there were challenges—many of which could have been avoided with earlier and more thorough planning. As a nation, we have a responsibility to address these shortcomings if we are to continue to grow as a premier golfing destination and a strong player on the global sports stage.

The Importance of Planning: A Missed Opportunity

In the lead-up to many of our recent events, we had ample time to prepare. Yet, much of the planning and training for these competitions began later than it should have. This last-minute rush created unnecessary stress for everyone involved—players, organizers, and staff alike.

Take the example of our national golf team, which displayed great potential despite having only a few months of focused preparation. While some athletes, like Felix Dusabe, had been training independently for months, the broader team could have benefited from a longer and more structured training regimen. If we had started earlier, aligned our stakeholders, and ensured that everything was in place well ahead of time, the team’s results could have been even more remarkable.

There’s no question that these young athletes are talented. But talent alone cannot carry them to victory. The difference between good performances and great performances often comes down to preparation. When our athletes have more time to train, they can focus on refining their skills, building confidence, and developing strategies that will give them the competitive edge they need to succeed on the international stage.

Planning as a Foundation for Success

Success should never be used as an excuse for poor planning. In fact, success places even more responsibility on us to be critical of our processes and improve them for the future. Proper planning is not just about making sure things happen on time—it’s about creating an environment where success can be repeated, sustained, and improved upon.

A well-structured plan allows us to anticipate challenges, manage resources effectively, and create a foundation for future achievements. Without it, we’re left reacting to problems as they arise, instead of proactively addressing them before they become obstacles. For example, securing sponsorships, ensuring the availability of key resources, and coordinating logistics all require long-term planning to avoid last-minute complications.

Collaboration Is Key

One of the most important lessons we’ve learned in recent years is the value of collaboration. Successful events are never the result of one individual’s effort; they are the product of a collective vision and a shared commitment to excellence. Our collaborations with various stakeholders—including sponsors, government bodies, and international golfing organizations—have been instrumental in raising the profile of Rwandan golf.

However, there is always room for improvement. Clearer communication, more defined roles, and stronger partnerships will allow us to streamline operations and avoid the inefficiencies that come from disorganized efforts. For future events, we must focus on building these relationships early, ensuring that all parties are aligned in their goals and responsibilities.

Looking Ahead: A Positive Outlook for Rwanda’s Golf Future

While there is always room for improvement, we should remain optimistic. The future of golf in Rwanda is bright, and we are well-positioned to become a major player in the international golf scene. But we must learn from our past experiences and commit to making early planning and strategic preparation a priority.

The lessons learned from recent events provide a valuable blueprint for future success. We now know what works and what needs improvement. Armed with this knowledge, we can confidently move forward, knowing that with better planning, we can achieve even greater results.

Our commitment to excellence must extend beyond the course. It must be reflected in how we organize, how we train, and how we collaborate with partners and stakeholders. By doing so, we will not only elevate the status of golf in Rwanda but also build a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts.

A Message to the Next Generation: Plan for Greatness

My final message is for the next generation of golfers, coaches, and sports leaders in Rwanda: Don’t let success blind you to the importance of preparation. It is not enough to be talented—you must also be disciplined, focused, and willing to put in the work long before the competition begins.

Success in golf, as in life, comes to those who are prepared. Let us use the experiences of today to build a stronger foundation for tomorrow. With early planning, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Rwanda can truly become a golfing powerhouse in Africa and beyond.