Story by Mthokozisi Dube
MAZOWE– PREPARATIONS are in full swing for the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region Five Darts Tournament, which Zimbabwe will host from August 26 to 29, in Mazowe.
The regional darts showcase is expected to attract participation from neighbouring countries and will present a major platform for junior player development, talent identification, and regional cooperation through sport.
Among the rising stars is Bulawayo-based junior darts player Thomas Mlambo, who rose through the ranks of Region Five competitions and now competes at club level.
“As juniors, we are ready for the challenge. We want to do well and build from our previous performances. We had a decent show in Mutare, and we believe nothing can stop us from excelling in Mazowe,” he said.
Organisers believe hosting the prestigious regional tournament is not only a chance to showcase local talent but also to sharpen administrative structures at grassroots level.
“As Bulawayo Darts, we are excited that our juniors are doing well. Hosting Region Five gives us a strategic opportunity to identify not just emerging players but also upcoming administrators who will help take the sport forward,” Organising Secretary, Bulawayo Province Darts Association, Collen Zvimbatu said.
In preparation for the regional meet, the National Darts Association of Zimbabwe (NDAZ) is focusing on intensifying junior development through school tournaments, with a selection event slated for Masvingo.
“We are pleased to be entrusted with hosting duties. All logistical arrangements are in place, but we also want to ensure every junior darts player has a fair opportunity to compete. As such, we will be staging a selection tournament in Masvingo to finalise our team,” Organising Secretary, NDAZ, Lethukuthula Nkomo said.
Zimbabwe will be looking to leverage home advantage in August to topple Eswatini, who have dominated the junior category in recent editions of the tournament.
The event is expected to deepen regional darts development, foster talent exchanges, and reinforce Zimbabwe’s position as a capable host of major sporting events in Southern Africa.
