By Tapiwa Chawagarira
HARARE — The Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) has intensified preparations for the Zimbabwe men’s volleyball team ahead of the 2026 Men’s African Nations Volleyball Championship in Tunisia by conducting anti-doping and competition manipulation education sessions.
The awareness program, organised at the invitation of the ZOC Athletes Commission, was led by ZOC Programmes Officer (Technical and Development) Newman Gomendo and Anti-Doping Education Officer Nothando Ndlovu.
The sessions equipped players with knowledge of anti-doping regulations and the risks associated with prohibited substances, while emphasising the importance of competing cleanly and protecting the integrity of the sport.
Gomendo also educated the players about competition manipulation, including what constitutes match-fixing and the serious consequences athletes may face for violating regulations.
Zimbabwe will join 15 other nations at the continental championship, which will run from September 14 to 26.
The tournament carries added significance, as it will determine Africa’s sole representative at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Zimbabwe will face a strong field, including hosts Tunisia, defending champions Egypt, Kenya, Algeria, Libya, Cameroon, Rwanda, Chad, Morocco, Uganda, The Gambia, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic.
The championship also offers another major incentive: the gold, silver, and bronze medalists will secure automatic qualification for the World Championships.
For Zimbabwe, the ZOC’s educational drive provides players with an important reminder that success on the court must be matched by discipline and adherence to international sporting regulations.
