adminNkosilathi Sibanda in Gaborone, Botswana
THE Confederation of Schools Sport in Southern Africa (Cossasa) athletics competition has grown from being a talent identification platform to an avenue for promoting cultural and economic progress in Sadc.Johnson Madhuku, the Cossasa president, said this at the opening ceremony of the 2014 edition of the biggest Southern African schools track and field competition being held here.
“The competition is gaining ground each and every year. We have realised that it is no longer about sport. Participating teams get more than just medals. There is a realisation of economic and cultural benefits. Moreover, the Sadc region is strengthening its stronghold as a leader in developing schools sport in Africa. The Cossasa Games are becoming popular and we remain committed to making the games better in each edition.”
Madhuku, who is also the president of the National Association of Secondary School Heads (Nash) in Zimbabwe, emphasised the need for governments in the region to support the games.
“These are the only games where Sadc countries can build future national teams. Support from both government and business partners is needed. Without funding, our sport in the region is doomed.”
The Botswana government poured P4 million towards the preparations and hosting of the games.
“If what has been done by the Botswana government is to be emulated by all member countries, then we are yet to see tremendous achievements. Governments are urged to take the games seriously. There is no other platform to build stronger national teams than the Cossasa Games.”
Madhuku encouraged athletes to improve on their performances and aim for the upcoming African Championships which Botswana will host in May.
Meanwhile, Team Zimbabwe are on course to retaining the regional title.
First to bag a gold medal was Kelly Rose in the Under-17s’ 400m hurdles. She clocked 1 minute 05 seconds, outpacing teammate Antonetta Tembo who finished in 1 minute 06 seconds.
Adrian Manyathela also took silver in the Under-17 boys’ 400m hurdles, while young Primrose Zimhunu settled for bronze in the Under-14s’ category in the opening day of the competition.
Online Reporter