Story by Bruce Chahwanda
Acting President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga has been impressed by the exploits of the country’s archery team which clinched bronze at the just-ended Region Five tournament in Namibia.
Proudly displaying their medals, members of team met Acting President Chiwenga at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare this Thursday.
The Acting President commended the team and coaches for raising the country’s flag high, urging them to aim for the Olympic Games in 2028.
“I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Zimbabwe Archery Team for their outstanding achievements at the regional tournament in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Your impressive performance is a source of immense pride for our nation and I commend each of you for your dedication, hard work and exceptional skills. The development team’s third-place finish in the highly competitive 3D (animals) category and their silver medals in the Bulls Eye event are remarkable accomplishments,” he said.
He also urged national associations to come up with developmental initiatives that ensure every child has an opportunity to participate in sport.
“I urge the Sports and Recreation Commission and its parent ministry to focus on such developmental initiatives in sports codes that have a minority status. Let me reiterate that the ministry in charge of sports and that of Primary Education are hereby directed to focus on a deliberate sports development thrust that leaves no sport code behind,” added VP Chiwenga.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Honourable Kirsty Coventry is convinced the team has what it takes to compete with the best on the global stage.
“As Zimbabwe, we will keep the momentum for the sport to ensure support from government,” she noted.
The Zimbabwe Archery Association is confident of successfully hosting the regional tournament in 2026.
Archery Genesis Africa chairperson Mr Rob Jackson said, “We are happy with the team’s performance in Namibia and we hope to continuously develop the sport such that we will do better next time.”
The Sports and Recreation Commission is equally excited, with director general Eltah Nengomasha saying the performance of the archery team brings hope to the nation.
“The national team and development side’s performances give us hope. We continue to encourage other associations and the disadvantaged I have access to these games and we have a lot of work to do, though we have a base.”
Acting President Chiwenga had an opportunity to interact with the team and pledged US$5 000 for the development of the sport.
