Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
The government has saluted the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe for undertaking to reposition themselves and enhance their efforts to develop the sport in the country.
NAAZ last week unveiled a new log at a function in Bulawayo and outlined their new vision for the growth of athletics in the country.
Deputy Director of Sport in the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Southern Region, Isiah Mpofu applauded NAAZ for their visionary approach, which has also seen the athletics body secure a corporate to lead their re-branding initiative.
“This re-branding marks the dawn of a new era for Zimbabwean athletics,’’ Mpofu said.
“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.”
“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.
“NAAZ’s new logo, embodying passion, progress, and pride, now stands as a beacon for the future of Zimbabwean athletics, promising a journey filled with determination, unity, and global achievements.
Veteran administrator and NAAZ president, Tendai Tagara, said their ambitions were to ensure Zimbabwe became a dominant force in African athletics and globally.
“Our goal is clear — to position Zimbabwean athletics as a formidable force regionally and globally,’’ Tagara said.
“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.”
NAAZ are also hoping to have an increase in the number of athletes who will make the cut at the World Athletics Championships in Japan in September.
Tagara also highlighted the significance of NAAZ entering into strategic partnerships for the sport.
“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,” added Tagara.
In line with their new strategic plan, which will dovetail into the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles in the United States, some of the NAAZ key initiatives include:
Talent Identification and Development Programs to nurture young athletes from across Zimbabwe
Comprehensive marketing and merchandising strategies led by 5Brands Consulting Group, ensuring wide-reaching publicity and sustainable revenue streams.
Scholarships programmes in collaboration with local and international universities to support athlete education and training
Partnerships with corporates and communities to enhance the quality and reach of athletics competitions
