Story by Justin Mahlahla
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was the Guest of Honour at a Congratulatory Ceremony for the Zimbabwe National Football Team (Warriors) following their Qualification for the 2025 Morocco AFCON finals.
The event was held at State House in Harare.
The Warriors attained nine points and took second place in Group J to qualify in next year’s finals set for December in Morocco.
Addressing the players and other delegates, President Mnangagwa expressed his joy and urged the Warriors to finish the tournament with pride.
“It is with immense pride and joy that I join you today to celebrate your remarkable achievement for Zimbabwe’s soccer fraternity and sport as a whole. This follows the qualification of Zimbabwe, through you, our beloved National Senior Men’s Soccer Team, “The Warriors” for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Tournament, to be held in Morocco.
“I extend my hearty congratulations to each member of the team, the coaching and technical staff, as well as everyone who contributed to this incredible journey. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering spirit of patriotism has brought honour to our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said.
The President said individually and collectively, the Warriors have demonstrated “what it means to believe in ourselves and to realise success through resilience, determination and sheer hard work. As your President and the Government at large, and indeed the people of Zimbabwe, we are extremely proud of you.”
He added, “Undoubtedly, the Warriors’ qualification for the 2025 AFCON Morocco Finals will go a long way in the annals of the sporting history in Zimbabwe. This is not only a milestone but a significant sporting stride, clearly exhibiting sporting excellence, coupled with astute sport diplomacy.
“This achievement is a beacon of hope for our youth and sends a powerful message that, with focus and teamwork, our nation can reach greater heights across any social and economic sphere. The accomplishment you, the Warriors realised, has inspired countless young athletes across our nation to pursue their sporting dreams; to work hard; and to believe that they too can excel.”
He urged the national team to remain steadfast, patriotic and good ambassadors of the country as they prepare for the tournament ahead.
“Remember that you are not just representing yourselves; you are representing every Zimbabwean who dreams of success in their respective endeavours. I say to you, play on with courage, play on with heart, and continue to play as one united team.
“Similarly, I urge the technical and coaching staff, to remain dedicated to the cause and continue instilling the right sporting values as well as nurturing unity, agility and discipline among our players. Your guidance is instrumental in shaping these young athletes into future champions. I also take this opportunity to congratulate our National Team Coach, Michael Nees, and I welcome you to Zimbabwe,” said President Mnangagwa.
He gave assurance that the government will continue to support sports development.
“On its part, my Government will continue to promote the development of sport and recreation in the country, guided by the strategies and programmes enshrined in Vision 2030 and the mantra ‘leaving no one and no place behind’. Under the Second Republic, the prioritisation of the development of sport and recreation facilities is ongoing,” he noted.
He also stated that in the recently announced 2025 National Budget, resources have been set aside for the refurbishment of the main stadia in Bulawayo and Harare and that the Government has set aside US$1 million towards the Warriors’ participation in the 2025 AFCON Finals.
“This shows the extent of our assurance towards supporting high performance in sport. It is also heartening to note that a record number of SADC nations, will be featuring at the 2025 AFCON Finals. The stronger presence of 9 SADC countries highlights our region’s growing football prowess.”
“As you aware, Zimbabwe is the current Chairman of SADC, and I have declared that each and every Zimbabwean is Chairman of SADC, wherever they are. So, go forth into the tournament aware of your title. MaChairman anosvasvanga nekurakasha, kubhora ikoko,” he said.
President Mnangagwa rallied the nation to support the Warriors.
“Going forward, I urge our nation to rally behind “The Warriors” as they embark on this exciting journey, carrying the Flag of our great motherland, Zimbabwe. Zimbabweans here at home and in the diaspora are encouraged to make the requisite arrangements to fill the stadiums in numbers to cheer on and support our players and our country. As a show of the nation’s appreciation, I have organised monetary awards for each of you for your achievements,” he said.
The Acting Minister of Sports, Arts and Recreation, Hon Kazembe Kazembe presented the Zimbabwe Senior men’s national team to the President.
Each player and members of the technical team received $6 500.
