Sports Minister Coventry meets with Zim UK-based s...

Sports Minister Coventry meets with Zim UK-based sports body

Minister Coventry and Ambassador Katsande (Centre) with Cluster Zimbabwe members

Zim Now Writer

Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry recently met with members of a diaspora grouping in London that is keen to promote sport among Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom and other countries in Europe and beyond. Made up of Zimbabweans resident in the UK, the group also has a mission to uplift the sport and arts sector in Zimbabwe.

The meeting, though called at short notice, was graced by HE Ambassador Col Rtd Katsande and his deputy, Mr. Elisha Karodza, who chairs the Diaspora Clusters Committees.

One of the leaders of the group, Marshall Gore, from London said they had discussed with Minister Coventry several issues around sport and the need to support Zimbabwe in the areas of grassroots development, drug eradication and sports tourism, among others.

“During her remarks, the Hon Minister appreciated all the different diaspora organisations and individuals promoting and supporting sports and arts development in Zimbabwe. She opened clear communication lines with the Cluster and outlined some opportunities for investment in sports and recreation in Zimbabwe. During the meeting, we agreed on areas of cooperation in the following key areas.

✅Promoting Sports Tourism

✅Promoting and selling Zimbabwe art and culture abroad

✅Creating opportunities for youth in Zimbabwe

✅Supporting the Ministry with strategies to combat drug abuse

✅Partnership with Ministry in developing sports at a grassroots level

✅The Ministry will facilitate Zimbabwean professional athletes based in the Diaspora to be registered with sports associations and federations at home.

✅ Diaspora athletes competing at the international level representing Zimbabwe will be eligible to apply for funding from their respective sporting mother bodies at home if they meet the criteria.

“We had a vibrant discussion on Zimbabwean football, reforms, and the current FIFA suspension. The Minister reassured us that her office is working 24/7 to engage both Fifa and Caf on the matter. We will continue to liaise with her on progress and give our membership updates,” Gore said.