Government clears Independence boxing tournament

GOVERNMENT has approved the use of national emblems for the Independence Boxing Tournament set for April 11 at City Sports Centre in Harare, a move that gives the event official status as part of the country’s 46th Independence celebrations.

The tournament is being organised by the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board, working with Deltaforce Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts Academy.

ZNBWCB had sought permission to use national symbols on championship belts and promotional material linked to the event.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana confirmed the approval in a letter to ZNBWCB chief executive Priscila Kadungure.

“We acknowledge receipt of your request seeking authorisation for the use of national emblems by Delta Force Boxing Promotions for the upcoming Independence Boxing Tournament scheduled for April 11, 2026 at the City Sports Centre in Harare,” wrote Mangwana.

He said the Ministry had reviewed the proposed designs submitted by the board before granting authority under the Presidential Emblems and Designs Act.

The approval allows the use of the Zimbabwe national flag, the Coat of Arms and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier symbol, together with inscriptions referencing President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Mangwana said the decision recognises the role sport can play in celebrating national milestones.

“This authorisation is granted in the spirit of celebrating our nation’s 46th Independence Anniversary and in recognition of the role that sport, particularly professional boxing, plays in fostering national pride and unity,” he said.

Kadungure said the clearance gives the tournament added meaning as boxing looks to rebuild its profile on the local scene.

“We are grateful to the Government for granting us permission to use national emblems in a tournament that celebrates our Independence,” she said.

“We appreciate the support we continue to receive, and preparations for the tournament are going well.”

Deltaforce Boxing and MMA director Clyde Musonda, who is also responsible for matching the fights on the card, said fighters have already entered the final phase of their preparations.

“We have some very exciting matchups on the card,” said Musonda.

“The boxers are fine-tuning for the tournament and the fans can expect a very good night of boxing.”

The main fight will see Zvikomborero Chemhere face Marlon Chivero for the national super flyweight title.

Former WBC super bantamweight champion Kudakwashe Chiwandire will also return to the ring after recovering from a leg injury suffered while playing football last year. She is set to meet Patience Masitara

in another bout expected to draw strong interest from fans.

Promoters say the bill will feature 10 fights with several regional boxers expected to take part.