Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
Over 30 teams from across Southern Africa are expected to descend on Binga next month for the inaugural Beach Handball Tournament, a landmark event scheduled for 6–7 December.
Organised by the Zimbabwe Handball Federation (ZHF), the two-day competition will kick off with group stage matches before progressing to knockout rounds, culminating in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the grand finale.
ZHF president Taurai Thomas Muberekwa confirmed that teams from Eswatini, South Africa, and Zambia have already committed to participate.
“This event will put Zimbabwe firmly on the map as a leader in beach handball development within Africa,” said Muberekwa. “We’re taking significant steps to attract the attention of the International Handball Federation (IHF) by demonstrating our commitment to growing this exciting sport.”
Running under the theme “Stop Drug and Substance Abuse”, the tournament aims to use sport as a tool to engage young people, promote community participation, and encourage healthier lifestyles.
However, Muberekwa admitted that preparations have faced challenges, particularly regarding the clearance of beach handball equipment donated by the IHF.
“In December 2024, the IHF donated beach handball equipment to Zimbabwe, but due to financial constraints, the ZHF has been unable to raise the funds required to clear it from storage. We currently owe around US$16 000 in storage fees, and this delay has been a major setback for our development efforts. It’s frustrating, as it affects our ability to promote the sport effectively,” he said.
Among those looking forward to the Binga tournament is Bekithemba Nkala, coach of Powerhouse Handball Club, Wanezi High School, and the NUST ladies’ team, who also serves as assistant coach for Zimbabwe’s Under-16 boys’ side.
“We’re thrilled to host the Beach Handball Tournament in Binga from 6–7 December. This event brings together top clubs from across Zimbabwe and the region. It’s not just about competition — it’s about regional collaboration, talent development, and raising the profile of beach handball across Africa,” said Nkala.
Nkala praised the ZHF and its partners for their commitment and urged the public to come out in support.
“We encourage everyone to rally behind the teams and help make this inaugural tournament a memorable one,” he said.
Also preparing for the competition is Gweru’s Mkoba Handball Club, known as The Vipers. Coach Tashinga T. Dembedza said the event will give players a platform to test their skills on a bigger stage.
“This tournament is a huge motivation for our players and a chance to realise their potential through beach handball. We have 30 players, both men and women, and we’re proud holders of the Central Region Silver Medal and two Kwekwe Festival Gold Medals. One of our players even represented Zimbabwe at Zone 6 level.
“We’re excited to face some of the biggest clubs from Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Zambia. We love handball, and we’re grateful to the ZHF for promoting the game and using it to inspire young people to stay away from drugs and embrace sport,” said Dembedza.
With its mix of competition, culture, and community, the Binga Beach Handball Tournament promises to be a thrilling celebration of sport and unity across Southern Africa.
