Bulawayo (New Ziana) – The National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ) has received praise for its dedication to developing talent from grassroots to elite levels, a commitment that aligns with the nation’s goal of producing world-class athletes.
Deputy Director of the Ministry of Sports, Arts, and Recreation for the Southern Region, Isaaih Mpofu, made these remarks during the unveiling of the association’s revitalized logo in Bulawayo recently.
He commended NAAZ for its forward-thinking approach, stating that this rebranding signifies the beginning of a new era for athletics in Zimbabwe.
“This rebranding marks the dawn of a new era for Zimbabwean athletics. NAAZ’s commitment to nurturing talent from grassroots to elite levels reflects our national aspiration to produce world-class athletes. “This journey, starting here in Bulawayo, is not just about sport—it is about national pride, youth development, and international excellence,” he said.
Mpofu added that the repositioning of NAAZ is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of excellence. “This repositioning by NAAZ is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of excellence. As a Ministry, we stand firmly behind NAAZ in this journey and encourage the nation to rally behind our athletes,” he said.
NAAZ President, Mr. Tendai Tagara outlined the association’s ambitious vision which is to position Zimbabwean athletics as a formidable force regionally and globally. “Our goal is clear to position Zimbabwean athletics as a formidable force regionally and globally. Hosting the NAAZ Junior Championships Final Selection for the African Union Sport Council Region 5 Games at White City Stadium, Bulawayo, on April 12, 2025, is just the beginning.
“We are preparing for the Confederation of African Athletics Southern Region Senior Championships in Harare in July 2025, and the African Union Sport Council Region 5 Games in Namibia in July 2025, all leading to our ultimate goal – the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, “he said.
Tagara emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships, saying they were forging alliances with corporate sponsors, communities, and educational institutions to ensure athletes have access to scholarships, cutting-edge training, and international exposure.
“We are forging alliances with corporate sponsors, communities, and educational institutions to ensure that our athletes have access to scholarships, cutting-edge training, and international exposure. “The involvement of every Zimbabwean, from rural communities to urban centres, is crucial as we treat athletics not just as a sport, but as a business that drives development, unity, and economic growth,” said Tagara.
The event also highlighted NAAZ’s key initiatives, including, talent identification and development programmes to nurture young athletes from across Zimbabwe.
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