Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Emily Jesaya, commended the achievements of emerging female sports leaders during a graduation ceremony for the Women Leadership Programme (WLP) held in Harare.
The event marked the completion of training for 20 women from Zimbabwe and the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5, who are now equipped with leadership tools to promote gender equity and sustainable development in the sports sector.
Launched in 2021, the Women Leadership Programme is a decade-long initiative aimed at grooming 200 capable female sports leaders by 2028. It is jointly implemented by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Sports, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), and AUSC Region 5, with support from the Association for International Sport for All (TAFISA).
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Jesaya hailed the graduates as catalysts for transformation in what has long been a male-dominated space.
“These women are not just graduates — they are pioneers of change who will redefine sports leadership in Zimbabwe and across the region. I urge them to lead with conviction and serve as mentors for the next generation,” Jesaya said.
The WLP forms part of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritizes inclusive sports development and human capital advancement. The programme tackles systemic challenges such as gender bias, limited access to financial resources, and underrepresentation in decision-making roles within sports institutions.
Dr. Vetumbuavi Veii, Chairperson of AUSC Region 5, has previously emphasized that the programme contributes directly to the region’s 10-year strategic vision to increase women’s participation in sports leadership by 40% by 2028.
Graduates are expected to serve as ambassadors and multipliers — tasked with cascading their leadership training into grassroots communities by mentoring others and fostering inclusive sports programmes.
TAFISA has also bolstered the programme by providing equipment and technical support, reinforcing its commitment to broadening access to sport across Southern Africa.
In her closing remarks, Deputy Minister Jesaya reiterated the government’s support for gender-inclusive policies in sports and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including plans to refurbish the National Sports Stadium to international standards.
The graduation reflects Zimbabwe’s broader push to empower women in sports leadership, creating a ripple effect that is expected to enhance participation, accountability, and professionalism across the African continent.
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