Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo is buzzing with energy as the 2025 edition of the Carling Black Label (CBL) Zimbabwe Tertiary Institutions Sports Union (ZTISU) Games bursts into life.
The electrifying blend of sporting excellence and youth begins in Bulawayo on June 24 and ends on June 27. The four-day fiesta will bring together hundreds of student-athletes from colleges and universities across Zimbabwe for a celebration of grit, talent, and national unity.
But this year’s edition is more than just a sporting spectacle, it is a cultural showcase fusing sport and showbiz, setting a new tone for tertiary-level games.
To amplify the vibe, organisers have lined up a star-studded entertainment programme for both the opening and closing ceremonies, with top local performers sharing the spotlight with rising stars.
Tonight’s gig will be ignited by crowd-favourites Ma9ine, Jnr Spragga, and DJ Tino, who promise to set the stage alight at White City Stadium with explosive sets.
The grand finale on June 27, dubbed the Champion Shutdown, will feature Zimdancehall kingpin Enzo Ishall, high-energy performer Mzoe7, and the in-demand spin kings DJ Nospa and DJ Matewu.
Speaking ahead of his performance, Mzoe7 said fans should expect fireworks on stage.
“Our fans are all champions, and this Friday, I want to celebrate that championship energy. There’s new music coming, high energy, and serious dance moves. People better come ready to sweat in the name of sport and music!”
ZTISU comprises three major sub-associations: TESAZ – Technical Education Sports Association of Zimbabwe (12 institutions); ZITCOSA – Zimbabwe Teachers’ Colleges Sports Association (14 institutions) and ZUSA – Zimbabwe Universities Sports Association (15 institutions).
Together, these bodies govern and promote competitive sports in tertiary institutions, shaping the next generation of Zimbabwean athletes.
This year, Bulawayo takes over hosting duties from Harare, which staged the 2024 edition at the University of Zimbabwe and Old Hararians grounds.
Student-athletes will battle it out across a broad range of disciplines for both men and women, including football, basketball, volleyball, netball, handball, athletics, tennis, table tennis, rugby, cricket, chess, pool, and darts.
More than medals and points, the ZTISU Games serve as a platform for building friendships, showcasing talent, and celebrating Zimbabwean youth culture.
