By Yvonne Mutambwa
His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa hosted a congratulatory ceremony for the Zimbabwe National Rugby team, “The Zimbabwe Sables” at State House, this Wednesday.
The Zimbabwe Sables lifted the Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda this year after beating Algeria 29-3.
Acting Minister of Sports, Recreation. Arts and Culture, Hon. Kazembe Kazembe emphasised the importance of the Sables’ achievement.
“The Rugby Africa Cup is the major and only ranking tournament for all African countries vying for a spot for the Rugby World Cup in 2027.The Sables last won the Cup in 2012 after defeating Uganda in the finals and thereafter the top spot has mostly been dominated by Namibia, ” Hon Kazembe noted.
In recognition of the team’s achievement, President Mnangagwa gave cash awards of USD6500 each to the players and Technical team.
The Sables presented President Mnangagwa with the championship trophy, together with a framed jersey signed by the entire team as a token of gratitude. Additionally, the team gifted 600 pairs of branded stockings, which the President intends to donate to a sports academy of his choice.
His Excellency President Mnangagwa applauded the Sables for being the nation’s pride through their dedication and achievement in rugby.
“The victory of our National Rugby team is timely, occurring when our nation is re-asserting its place among sporting countries within the International arena.The milestone is therefore another testimony that Zimbabwe is ready to compete and excel at the highest levels of continental and global sport, ” the President Mnangagwa said.
“The Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Industry and business stakeholders are called upon to scale up support for the sport sub-sector towards both quality infrastructure and ensuring that athletes can undertake sport as a viable career,” the President added.
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