REGION FIVE CHIEF BRIEFS MATEMADANDA

THE African union Sports Council Region 5 CEO, Stanley Mutoya, on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Ambassador Victor Matemadanda at the Zimbabwean Embassy in Maputo. The visit formed part of Region 5’s ongoing engagement with the diplomatic community as it strengthens regional partnerships and co-operation around sport development initiatives. During the meeting, Mutoya briefed Ambassador Matemadanda on the mandate, programmes, and activities of the African union Sports Council Region 5, which serves as the regional sport development body for Southern Africa.

A key highlight of the engagement was the update provided to the Ambassador on the Strategic Plan Review Workshop hosted in Maputo from March 10 to 12, 2026. The workshop brought together delegates from across the Region to assess progress under the 2023–2028 Strategic Plan and to refine strategic priorities. The review process is aimed at aligning the Region’s strategic objectives and impact areas in order to accelerate the attainment of targets set by the Council of Ministers.

The Ambassador was also briefed on preparations for the 12th Edition of the Region 5 Youth Games, which will be hosted in Maputo from December 4 to 13, 2026. The Games represent the premier multi-sport youth competition in Southern Africa and play a critical role in identifying and nurturing future sporting talent from across the Region. Ambassador Matemadanda expressed appreciation for the courtesy visit and commended Region 5 for its continued efforts in advancing sport development and youth empowerment across the region.

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He pledged the support of the Zimbabwean Embassy in Mozambique for the programmes lined up in Maputo and highlighted the importance of regional sporting platforms in strengthening cooperation among Southern African nations. The Ambassador further expressed his delight and anticipation in welcoming Team Zimbabwe when it participates in the upcoming Region 5 Youth Games scheduled for December 2026.

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