Zimbabwe’s Under 20 men’s handball team has named a 20 player provisional squad that will enter camp from 24 August to 4 September 2026 as preparations continue for the 33rd African Men’s Junior Handball Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The continental tournament will run from 5 to 13 September, with Zimbabwe drawn in Group A alongside hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea and Rwanda.
Zimbabwe booked its place at the African championship after winning gold at the 2026 Men’s Zone VI Handball Tournament in Lusaka, Zambia. The victory secured the team’s qualification for the continental competition.
The team will be guided by head coach Tafadzwa Madure as the players prepare for their African assignment.
The 20 players called into camp are Blessing Botoman, Tafadzwa Gonye, Tanatswa Mapolisa, Johane Musamwira, Tichafara Mubvakure, Craig Karimatsenga, Emmanuel Mahaso, Dominick Ndou, Panashe Mutsau, Inzwiraishe Mushai, Sean P. Mvuto, Learnmore Gomba, Shawn T. Chaka, Davis Nhongonhema, Kundiso Berekai, Tinotenda Chirowamhangu, Adrian Chivi, Tendai Hakulandaba, Byron Gono Marufu and Bright Mukuzunga.
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Zimbabwe Handball Federation (ZHF) president Taurai Muberekwa said the qualification showed the progress being made in developing young players.
“The Under 20 team has shown great potential. Winning gold in Zone VI was a result of commitment, discipline and hard work from the players and the technical team. The African championship will give these young athletes an opportunity to compete at a higher level and gain valuable experience,” Muberekwa said.
He added that junior competitions remain important in creating opportunities for players to progress into senior national teams.
“We are building a system where young players are identified, developed and given opportunities to represent Zimbabwe. These tournaments are important because they expose our athletes to international competition and help them grow,” Muberekwa said.
The training camp will be used to prepare the team ahead of the final squad selection for the championship in Abidjan.
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