Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
HARARE is preparing to welcome some of Southern Africa’s top Taekwondo athletes for the Mayor’s Challenge Cup Taekwondo 2026, which will be held at the City Sports Centre on August 15–16.
The tournament is expected to attract some of the region’s finest Taekwondo competitors from across the SADC region.
Harare City Martial Arts chairman, Martin Chimombe, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event.
“We are bracing for the Mayor’s Challenge Cup, which is taking place on the 15th and 16th of this month.
“It is going to be an exciting tournament because countries from across the SADC region are coming,” said Chimombe.
The Harare City Martial Arts team heads into the competition in good form after an impressive performance in Manzini, Eswatini, where they won several medals, including one gold, one silver, and four bronze.
Among the standout performers were Tavonga Nzvenga, who won a gold medal, and Godfrey Kakomwe, who secured silver. Other notable athletes in the Harare City Martial Arts Club include Wayne Clement, Ishmael Mugwagwa, Terrence Mpero, and Wayne Chivhayo.
Reflecting on the team’s recent performances, Chimombe said:
“That was a very interesting tournament.
“During the same month, on July 18, we also took part in a national tournament held in Epworth.
“Our athletes won 17 medals—nine gold, four silver, and four bronze.”
Chimombe believes the regional tournament presents a valuable opportunity to showcase Harare as a sporting destination.
“We wish to scale greater heights and do our best for Harare. We want to make sure that we shine and restore the Sunshine City’s reputation, this time through sport.”
The Harare Mayor’s Challenge Cup will also provide local Taekwondo athletes with a chance to test themselves against some of the region’s best competitors.
“It’s an opportunity for our athletes to gain exposure to different fighting styles and build international friendships that broaden their horizons. We encourage the community to come and support the squad,” Chimombe added.
More than 90 athletes have already registered for the tournament, with organisers expecting a highly competitive and entertaining event.
