Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports editor
ZIMBABWE and Belarus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in the sports sector, a move expected to enhance athlete development and deepen bilateral relations.
Zimbabwean athletes and officials are set to benefit from world-class training facilities and technical expertise in Belarus after the landmark agreement signed in Minsk.
The deal was formalised by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant General (Retired) Anselem Sanyatwe, and his Belarusian counterpart Sergei Kovalchuk, paving the way for collaboration across disciplines including tennis, football, swimming, and athletics.
Minister Sanyatwe described the agreement as a major boost for Zimbabwean sport, highlighting opportunities for specialised coaching, international exposure, and knowledge exchange.
His Belarusian counterpart reaffirmed the commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s sporting growth, with both nations exploring the possibility of training camps, skills development programmes, and joint competitions.
Belarus has produced great tennis players like current women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka and two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka, among others.
Meanwhile, Minister Sanyatwe toured the Belarusian State University of Physical Culture, where he witnessed advanced training systems and facilities expected to play a key role in shaping Zimbabwe’s athletes for the global stage.
