Zimbabwe’s national handball teams are stepping up preparations ahead of the Zone Six Championships set for April 28 to May 2 in Zambia, with both the Under-18 and Under-20 squads currently in camp in Harare.
Each team, made up of 14 players, has entered the final phase of training focused on tactical discipline, fitness, and building cohesion. Coaches are using the camp to fine-tune combinations and sharpen competitiveness ahead of the regional tournament, which will feature some of Southern Africa’s strongest sides.
Under-20 head coach Farai Malvern Mukundu expressed cautious optimism about the team’s readiness, noting steady progress but acknowledging that final adjustments are still underway.
“We are almost there in terms of preparation. The camp has been going well so far, and we hope it will get even better in the remaining days,” he said.
Mukundu said expectations are high but urged restraint in setting guarantees.
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“At the moment, we cannot make promises, but we can assure the nation that we will fight to the very end,” he added.
Zimbabwe Handball Federation president Taurai Muberekwa praised the potential within both squads but highlighted financial limitations as a major challenge affecting preparations, particularly player welfare.
“The team is promising. The main challenge we are facing is financial, especially when it comes to the welfare of the athletes,” he said.
He noted that while players remain committed and technical teams are working hard, shortages continue to affect accommodation, nutrition, transport, and overall preparation — all critical components for performance at elite level.
Muberekwa added that increased funding would not only strengthen current preparations but also support the long-term growth of handball in Zimbabwe. He called on stakeholders and sponsors to support the teams, stressing that investment in youth development is key to building a competitive national future.
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