THE National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ) has embarked on an ambitious campaign to elevate the sport to new heights, with a focus on securing strategic sponsorships, enhancing athlete development and positioning athletics as a viable career path.
According to Manual Mpofu, White City Athletics Club founder and a member of NAAZ, the objective “is to elevate Zimbabwean athletics to a new height by securing strategic sponsorships, enhancing athletes' development and positioning athletics as a viable career path”.
The campaign will create a globally recognised brand for Zimbabwean athletics and secure funding to support athletes from grassroots to elite levels, Mpofu said.
In a major boost to the campaign, NAAZ has secured a US$1 million sponsorship deal from 5 Brands Consulting Group. for the sport's development until 2028.
The partnership is expected to support NAAZ's initiatives, including talent identification and development programmes, comprehensive marketing and merchandising strategies, scholarship programmes and partnerships with corporates and communities.
NAAZ president, Tendai Tagara, outlined the association's ambitious vision, saying: "Our goal is clear – to position Zimbabwean athletics as a formidable force regionally and globally."
The association's rebranding efforts were marked by the unveiling of a new logo at a media conference held at a local hotel in Bulawayo last Friday.
Guest of honour, Isaiah Mpofu, deputy director in the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Recreation – Southern Region, commended NAAZ for its innovative strategy and forward-thinking approach.
- Nurse aides call for recognition
- All set for NAAZ Junior Championships.
- 60 shortlisted for African Junior Athletics champs
- Zim scoops medals at Junior champs
Keep Reading
Speaking at the launch, Tagara said: “Our new logo represents more than just a visual change; it embodies our dedication to rejuvenating athletics in Zimbabwe. This rebranding is a testament to our commitment, progress, excellence and the unification of the athletics community."
The event also highlighted NAAZ's preparations for upcoming international competitions, including the Confederation of African Athletics Southern Region Senior Championships in Harare and the African Union Sport Council Region 5 Games in Namibia.
