Story by Tichaona Kurewa
ZIMBABWE’S whitewater rafting team finished fourth in Africa and seventh in the world at the 2026 World Rafting Cup Series in Sagana, Kenya, after competing against some of the sport’s leading nations.
Team leader Philani Moyo described the competition as demanding but rewarding, saying Zimbabwe exceeded expectations despite fielding only four athletes.
“It was a tough race. Only four guys were here, but we did well and gave it our best. In the African rankings, we finished fourth behind Kenya, Uganda and Morocco. I think we performed extremely well. Globally, we came seventh behind countries like Italy, the Czech Republic and Japan, who are world champions. They train professionally every day, so we have great respect for them.”
Team member Nalishebo Mathe said teamwork and determination were key to completing the gruelling course.
“It was exciting, but also very demanding and exhausting. We worked together as a team, stayed strong throughout the race and managed to complete the course successfully.”
Despite competing with a small squad, Zimbabwe produced one of its strongest international performances, underlining the country’s growing stature in whitewater rafting, with the Zambezi River continuing to provide a world-class training ground for its athletes.
The team has begun its return journey home by road through Tanzania and Zambia.
