Patience Muchemwa – Senior Reporter
Zimbabwe is ramping up preparations for a busy international sporting calendar, focusing on nurturing young talent ahead of five major tournaments scheduled between 2025 and 2028.
The country will participate in the 11th edition of the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games, set to take place in Windhoek, Namibia, from July 4 to 13, 2025. A total of 197 athletes—93 males and 104 females—will represent Zimbabwe across various sporting disciplines.
The team’s participation forms part of a broader national strategy announced by the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Ambassador Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe. The initiative aligns with the goals of the National Development Strategy 1, which prioritizes increased sports participation and enhanced performance.
All logistical arrangements and preparations are being coordinated by the Sports and Recreation Commission and Team Zimbabwe Management.
Zimbabwe will field teams in athletics, boxing, football, and other disciplines. The athletics team includes 18 male and 18 female athletes, supported by five coaches.
The boxing squad comprises four male and three female boxers, backed by three coaches. In football, 20 male and 20 female players will compete, under the guidance of six coaches and officials.
Speaking on the country's readiness, Minister Sanyatwe said: "On behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture reaffirms Zimbabwe’s commitment to embrace sport as a tool for economic growth, national branding, social inclusion, and international cooperation."
He added: "We are committed to supporting our athletes in this endeavour and will ensure that they have the necessary resources and encouragement to excel."
The AUSC Region 5 Youth Games, held biennially, aim to foster youth development, promote sport, and strengthen regional integration. Zimbabwe last hosted the event in 2014.
The 2025 campaign will run under the theme “Own the Moment”, inspiring athletes to take charge of their sporting careers and personal growth.
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