Story by Raynald Ngwarati
THE Government has received commendation for revitalising Zimbabwe’s capacity to host international sporting events, following renewed efforts to develop sports tourism in the country.
The praise came during a dinner hosted by the City of Harare on Sunday evening to mark the official opening of the 2025 CAF Under-17 Boys Africa Cup of Nations COSAFA Qualifiers. The regional tournament officially began on September 11 and was formally launched after four days of competitive action in the capital.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe, Chief Director in the ministry, Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa emphasised the role of sport in youth empowerment and regional integration.
“As I officially open the 2025 COSAFA U-17 Championship, I urge players, coaches, officials, schools, and partners to rise together in celebration. Let this be a tournament where Southern Africa unites, Zimbabwe showcases its readiness, and young talent is nurtured. May we witness thrilling matches, unforgettable moments, and a lasting legacy for football in our country,” she said.
The ongoing tournament underscores Zimbabwe’s growing potential as a hub for sports tourism and regional collaboration in line with the Second Republic’s development agenda.
Meanwhile, partners hailed the tourism development trajectory adopted by the second republic, highlighting the importance of reviving sports tourism in Zimbabwe.
“This city has always been a hub of sport, culture, and heritage. It is only fitting that Harare becomes the stage where tomorrow’s champions begin their journey,” ZIFA president, Nqobile Magwizi said.
“Harare has a proud sporting pedigree. We have produced world number one golfers, Olympic swimming champions, boxing legends, and hosted global events like the Davis Cup. Right now, we are hosting top cricket nations like Sri Lanka and soon Australia and Namibia. It is time football joins that elite level, and this tournament marks our return after many years,” Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said.
12 nations have descended on Zimbabwe for the Under-17 tournament, which runs until September 20, bringing a hive of activity to Norton and Harare, with hotels fully booked for the duration of the competition.
The COSAFA U17 Championship has consistently been a launchpad for future stars, producing top talent like Zambia’s Patson Daka and Lameck Banda, South Africa’s Lyle Foster, and many others who have gone on to shine in Europe’s top leagues.
