Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe is set to host the International Handball Federation (IHF) Trophy Zone VI women’s junior and youth tournament from April 28 to May 4, 2025, in Harare. The event will bring together top teams from Southern Africa, competing for the coveted spot in the continental stage of the championship.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Handball Federation (ZHF) has confirmed its readiness to deliver a world-class tournament. ZHF Secretary-General Edson Chirowodza noted that hosting this event is a significant milestone for the country’s handball ambitions.
“We are proud to have won the bid to host this prestigious competition. This is a critical platform to showcase our players and our capabilities as a sporting nation,” he said.
Preparations are in full swing, with Zimbabwe naming provisional squads for both the Under-18 and Under-20 women’s categories.
“Head coach Sipho Mahlangu will lead the junior team, while Ozwell Gono oversees the youth side. Both teams are expected to undergo intense training camps in the coming months, with the federation calling for robust financial support from stakeholders to ensure the teams are adequately prepared,” Chirowodza said
In an interview with this publication, local sports analyst, Mike Chingazha said, “I believe this tournament will not only spotlight the players but also stimulate economic activity in Harare. Hotels, transport services, and local businesses are expected to benefit from the influx of international teams and officials.
The upcoming women’s tournament is anticipated to boost the profile of handball in Zimbabwe, particularly among young female athletes. It provides a platform for talent identification and development while positioning Zimbabwe as a hub for international sporting events.” Chingazha added.
Meanwhile, this is not the first time Zimbabwe has hosted an IHF event. The country successfully organized the men’s youth and junior tournaments in 2022 and 2024, with the national teams achieving commendable results. The junior men’s team clinched gold at the zonal stage in both instances, highlighting the growing stature of Zimbabwean handball.
As the countdown begins, the ZHF has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the event’s success. With a history of hosting competitive tournaments, Zimbabwe looks set to deliver another memorable handball spectacle, fostering the growth of the sport across the region.
