Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe Rallies Young Warriors Ahead of AFCON U-17 Tournament
5 min read
Harare – The nation’s hopes for football glory are gathering momentum as Zimbabwe prepares to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Under-17 Tournament.
In a show of support and solidarity, the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Hon. Lt. General (Rtd) Ambassador Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, paid a special visit to the Zimbabwe National Under-17 Boys’ Team at their training camp at Eaglesvale High School in Harare today.
The Minister’s visit comes at a crucial moment as the Young Warriors intensify their preparations for the continental showpiece, which will bring together Africa’s finest emerging football talents.
Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe was accompanied by his Deputy, Hon. Emily Jesaya, among other Ministry officials.
With Zimbabwe hosting the tournament, expectations are high, and the team carries not only the hopes of lifting the coveted trophy but also the pride of showcasing the country’s sporting and organizational capabilities.
Addressing the players, technical team, and officials, Hon. Sanyatwe urged the boys to embrace discipline, unity, and determination as they prepare to represent the nation.
“You are not just a team; you are the future of Zimbabwean football,” the Minister said. “Wearing the national colors comes with honor and responsibility. You have the chance to make history, to inspire millions of young Zimbabweans, and to show Africa the spirit and resilience of our nation.”
The Minister’s words were met with applause and visible enthusiasm from the squad, who have been in camp for several weeks fine-tuning their tactics and building team chemistry.
Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe reiterated the government’s commitment to nurturing young talent and developing sport as a key pillar for youth empowerment and national cohesion.
He emphasized that the hosting of the AFCON Under-17 Tournament is not just about football but about building a legacy for future generations.
“This tournament is an opportunity to put Zimbabwe on the African sporting map,” he noted. “It is also a platform to unearth new talent, create employment, and promote tourism and cultural exchange. We are working closely with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to ensure a world-class event.”
The Minister also commended the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), led by its President Mr. N. Magwizi, technical staff, and sponsors for their roles in supporting the team’s journey and ensuring that preparations are on track.
The Young Warriors have been undergoing intensive training at Eaglesvale High School, focusing on fitness, tactical awareness, and mental readiness.
The camp has been described as a “high-performance zone,” with the players undergoing strict routines, balanced nutrition, and mentorship sessions from seasoned football veterans.
The team expressed gratitude for the Minister’s visit, saying it boosted their morale significantly.
“Seeing the Minister come here shows that the whole country is behind us. It gives us confidence to know that the government and people of Zimbabwe believe in us. We promise to give our best on the field.” Said the team Captain.
Zimbabwe’s hosting of the AFCON Under-17 Tournament is expected to draw teams and supporters from across the continent, creating a vibrant atmosphere of competition and camaraderie.
Beyond the matches, the event is anticipated to boost local economies through tourism, hospitality, and related industries. Stadium renovations and infrastructure upgrades are also underway, with the government assuring citizens that the facilities will meet international standards.
Sports analysts say the tournament provides a golden opportunity for Zimbabwean football to rise again, particularly in developing a strong pipeline of young players who can transition to the senior national team in the coming years.
During his visit, Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe reflected on the history of Zimbabwean football, paying tribute to legends who paved the way for today’s rising stars.
He emphasized the need to draw inspiration from the country’s past achievements while embracing modern methods of sports science, coaching, and management.
“We have seen great talent in this country—from the Dream Team era to recent warriors who played at AFCON. Now, it is your turn to write your own chapter. Play with courage, respect your opponents, but most importantly, respect the badge you wear.”
Parents, schools, and local football academies have been instrumental in feeding talent into the Under-17 squad.
Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe encouraged communities to rally behind the team, attend matches, and offer moral support throughout the tournament.
Corporate partners are also stepping in to sponsor training equipment, kits, and welfare for the players.
The Minister hinted at more private-sector involvement in the near future, saying, “Sport is a shared responsibility. We welcome partners who see the value in investing in our youth. Every ball kicked, every goal scored, and every young boy or girl inspired is a victory for Zimbabwe.”
The AFCON Under-17 Tournament will kick off in the coming weeks, with Zimbabwe facing tough competition from football powerhouses like Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal.
However, there is an air of optimism among players and supporters alike.
As the Young Warriors continue their preparations, Hon. Lt. Gen. Rtd. Sanyatwe’s visit serves as a timely reminder that they carry the weight and hopes of an entire nation.
From the bustling streets of Harare to the remote villages of Matabeleland and Manicaland, all eyes will soon turn to the stadiums where the future of African football will clash for supremacy.
In closing his address, the Minister called on Zimbabweans to unite behind the team regardless of region, background, or affiliation.
“Football has the power to unite us as a people,” he said. “Let us wave our flags, sing our songs, and cheer our boys on. Let this tournament remind us that when Zimbabwe stands together, we are unstoppable.”
As the sun set over the training grounds at Eaglesvale High School, the boys returned to their drills, a renewed sense of purpose in their steps.
Their journey is far from over, but with the backing of their government, their coaches, and their nation, the dream of AFCON glory feels closer than ever.
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