Zimbabwe is preparing for its strongest participation yet at the prestigious Abu Dhabi World Schools Sports Festival, set for 14–20 December in the UAE capital.
This year, the country will field a record delegation of 90 young athletes—its largest ever—marking a significant milestone for national school sports development.
The initiative is led by Africa Teams Manager Royal Mabika, whose continued efforts are opening sporting pathways between Africa and the Middle East.
Mabika, a long-time advocate for cross-regional sports development, said the opportunity will be transformative for the students taking part.
“I have always been passionate about promoting sports development between Africa and the Middle East region,” he said. “This means exposure for every young person participating.”
Team Zimbabwe’s contingent has grown rapidly and now includes a 30-member cricket squad and the Sables school rugby team, bringing both diversity and competitive energy to the global event.
“So Team Zimbabwe has a delegation of 90 now. We selected a squad of 30 youngsters in cricket and the Sables squad, making it very exciting and interesting to fellow participants,” Mabika noted.
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While Zimbabwe previously had isolated representation, this year marks a historic breakthrough.
“The Zambezi Steelers, a top rugby club, has competed in the competition before,” he said.
“But this time, Zimbabwe brings the biggest delegation ever to the UAE capital, promoting not only sport but also the development of sport in the country.”
Selection of athletes and schools was based on talent, commitment, readiness, and the availability of sponsorship support.
“We looked at the schools that had the best players, but also those that were interested in participating,” Mabika explained. “In my capacity as Africa Teams Manager, I had to go through those that had promised sponsorship for the event.”
Assembling such a large delegation ahead of the December event presented challenges, but Mabika remains encouraged.
“It’s not easy to assemble a delegation of 90 students from schools nationwide, especially with the time left,” he said.
“However, through the spirit of sport, it’s always doable, and I look forward to seeing students from these schools representing internationally.”
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