Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Kick-boxing Association president Tony Kamangira says they have begun putting the logistics in place for next year’s African Championships to be held in Harare.
Zimbabwe were last month confirmed hosts for the 2026 tournament.
The event brings together top talent from across the continent.
“Preparatory work has commenced, including internal stakeholders’ consultations, venue and infrastructure assessments, and logistical planning.
“These activities are aimed at ensuring readiness for hosting.
“Progress remains steady and aligned with the continental federations requirements,” said Kamangira.
The exact date for the continental showcase is yet to be confirmed.
Kamangira said the green-light to host the tournament is in recognition of the development efforts the national association has been making to grow the sport.
In the last couple of years, ZIKA have been staging the African Day Championship, inviting fellow African countries to participate.
“We had a general assembly on the 15th of November, you also present yourself in terms of your status and the activities that you have been carrying out.
“For three years now, we have been hosting what we call Africa Day Championship, inviting countries such as Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, it was like a positive indication to confirm that we can host.
“We have identified three possible venues, Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex, Rainbow Towers and City Sports Centre,” Kamangira said.
The ZIKA president believes with the African Championships coming to Zimbabwe, it will help to promote visibility and to grow the profile of the sport locally.
“It’s going to be a platform for exposure for our athletes, and even the community because some people don’t understand the sport.
“The expected number of participating countries typically ranges between 10 and 20 African countries, though final confirmation will come from the continental federation closer to the event.
“Hosting the African Championships would be highly beneficial, as it would strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a regional sporting hub.
“It can stimulate economic growth through tourism and event related activities, enhance national visibility and prestige with African sport as well as support athlete development and capacity building pathways, create opportunities for local and community engagement.
“The moment we have several countries coming to Zimbabwe, it helps grow the profile of the sport in the country, the development of the sport, and for people to have an appreciation of kick-boxing. It helps market the sport,” added Kamangira.
South Africa hosted the previous edition.
“In the last African Championships, 370 athletes from 15 countries participated and we expect these numbers to increase in the next African Championships.
“We are looking forward to hosting the Championships in our country for the first time in history,” said Kamangira.
