Zimbabwe to Host 2028 Traditional Sports and Games Multi-Event Festival

In a significant stride for traditional sports across Africa, the Zimbabwe Traditional Sports and Games Federation (ZTSGF) and the African Traditional Sports and Games Confederation (ATSGC) have signed the official host protocol agreement for the 2028 Traditional Sports and Games Multi-Event Festival. This agreement follows Zimbabwe’s successful bid to host the 2028 festival, which will take place after the inaugural edition in Namibia in 2026.

The signing ceremony, held at a leading hotel in Harare, was marked by a spirit of enthusiasm and optimism. ATSGC President Michael Shamsu Mustapha, speaking at the event, expressed his excitement about collaborating with Zimbabwe to deliver a memorable and impactful Games. “We are very pleased with the preparations made by the Zimbabwe Traditional Sports and Games Federation so far. We are committed to supporting them throughout the process leading up to the 2028 Games and look forward to a fruitful partnership,” said Mustapha.

A key moment during the ceremony was the unveiling of the official logo for the 2028 event, which symbolizes Africa’s rich cultural heritage and the diversity of its traditional sports. The festival will feature a wide range of traditional sports, including animal-aided sports, ball games, combat sports, dances, mind games, racket sports, and water sports, promising a dynamic celebration of African traditions.

Though not present at the ceremony, Shammi Rana, Secretary-General of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG), sent a message congratulating Zimbabwe on securing the hosting rights. Mr. Rana was warmly recognized for his dedication to promoting these cultural treasures globally and congratulated ATSGC and its leadership, praising President Mustapha and ZTSGF President Lizzie Mupure for their visionary approach and commitment to the cause.  In his message, Mr. Rana extended his congratulations to Lizzie Mupure on her appointment as the second Vice President of the African Traditional Sports and Games Confederation and congratulated Michael Shamsu Mustapha on his new roles as Joint Secretary of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) and Coordinator for United Nations agencies for ICTSG. He praised the leadership of the African Traditional Sports and Games Confederation (ATSGC) for their efforts in promoting traditional sports across the continent.

Mr. Rana also emphasized that the 2028 Games will be organized in alignment with UNESCO’s concept of safeguarding Traditional Sports and Games. He highlighted that these efforts would not only promote cultural diversity and heritage preservation but also enhance global awareness and appreciation of Africa’s rich traditions through sport. “Ensuring that these games align with UNESCO’s framework will help us maintain the authenticity of our traditional sports while encouraging international recognition and support,” Rana stated in his message.

In a significant announcement at the event, Mustapha highlighted Lizzie Mupure’s pivotal role in bringing the 2028 festival to Zimbabwe and named her the second Vice President of the African Traditional Sports and Games Confederation. The event was also attended by Eltah Nengomasha, Director-General of the Sports and Recreation Commission, who expressed her excitement over the official recognition of traditional sports in Zimbabwe. “The establishment of a dedicated sports code will ensure active participation by Zimbabweans in their traditional sports, enhancing engagement nationwide,” Nengomasha remarked.

She further emphasized the broad impact of sports, noting their role in diplomacy, community engagement, and sports tourism. “Sports serve as a bridge for diplomacy, fostering community engagement, peace, and cohesion. As the SRC, we are dedicated to providing a supportive environment and resources for our national sports associations,” she added.

Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the National Sports Authority of Sierra Leone, underscored the role of sports in addressing unemployment across Africa. “We have often underestimated the power of sports. From football and basketball to traditional games, sports offer significant benefits and align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to education, health, and peace,” he stated. “Sports can provide valuable opportunities for young people, creating jobs and helping them pursue their passions. We must treat the preservation of African traditional games as a priority.”

Looking ahead, Mupure revealed that the cities of Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo are being considered as potential venues for the competitions, ensuring broad geographic representation across Zimbabwe. The event also saw the attendance of ZTSGF board members, including Rixson Makarichi, Tayengwa Takazvirasa, and Abel Chimukoko, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee.

With preparations now underway, Zimbabwe is set to celebrate and showcase its rich cultural heritage, uniting the continent through traditional sports and games in 2028.