Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Netball Association (Zina) is set to sign a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Netball South Africa (NSA) in a bold move that could reshape the future of the sport in the country.
The partnership signals a new era of cooperation between the two neighbours, with Zina tapping into South Africa’s experience and expertise to fast track the growth and professionalisation of netball in Zimbabwe, particularly with the 2027 Netball World Cup looming.
Acting Zina president Emmanuel Harawa says the agreement goes beyond a mere formality.
“This, we can only achieve by leveraging the expertise and successful practices of our South African counterparts,” he said.
“By building a partnership with a nation that has excelled in the sport, we aim to create a robust framework for nurturing local talent and improving overall performance on the international stage.”
The agreement is expected to touch on technical partnerships, coaching development, infrastructure growth, and exchange programmes. More importantly, it’s being framed as a deliberate strategy to raise the bar for local netball and inspire the next generation of players.
The collaboration also aims to help Zina adopt best practices from NSA, whose systems have drawn admiration across the continent. From player development to world-class infrastructure and coaching methodologies, South Africa’s model is one Zimbabwe hopes to mirror.
Beyond the technical aspects, NSA’s success in branding, sponsorship, and marketing provides a template Zimbabwe can learn from. But to get there, Harawa says Zina must build credibility with funders.
“While we’ve generally enjoyed support from both Government and the corporate sector, we need to improve our accountability if we are to retain and grow sponsorship,” he said.
Still, the association is optimistic.
“This will also inspire future generations and increase netball’s popularity and participation across the country. This is the starting point,” Harawa added.
The MoU also opens the door for broader knowledge exchange and capacity building. Zina views this as a long term investment into a stronger, more competitive Zimbabwean netball ecosystem.
The Gems’ rising profile on the international stage proves that regional exposure pays dividends.
Currently ranked fourth on the continent and 13th globally, Zimbabwe’s recent progress has been driven in part by regular appearances at South African tournaments.
The national select side, branded as the “Zambezi Eagles”, recently featured in South Africa’s Telkom Netball League (TNL) as an invited team. Before that, the senior team had been a regular participant at the Diamond Challenge Invitational.
These experiences have provided critical exposure for players, while also cementing a spirit of solidarity and mutual respect between the two nations.
Netball stakeholders have welcomed the pending agreement.
“By leveraging the resources and expertise available through this collaboration, we can be able to implement innovative initiatives,” said one stakeholder.
“This will lead to substantial improvements in performance on both national and international stages, something we’ve wished for all along.”
They also hailed Zina’s strategic foresight.
“Creating strong relations with high ranked nations like South Africa reflects Zina’s dedication to improving the game and uplifting our athletes,” another added.
“The strategic collaborations offer the much needed opportunities for knowledge exchange, skills development, and competitive exposure.
“With continued support and collaboration, the future of Zimbabwean netball is promising. Only this way can we reach even greater achievements in the sport.”
As Zimbabwe strengthens ties with South Africa, the future of local netball looks brighter than ever.
