Zimbabwe has been commended by the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr Patrice Motsepe, for successfully hosting the 2026 CAF African Schools Football Championship, in what he described as a well-organised and memorable event.
The week-long tournament, staged at Gateway High School in Harare and Ngoni Stadium in Norton, brought together young players from across Africa and was widely seen as a celebration of youth development and continental unity.
Speaking during the finals, Dr Motsepe praised Zimbabwe’s efforts and highlighted the importance of expanding hosting opportunities beyond countries traditionally associated with major sporting events.
“It is very important that we continue to give hosting opportunities to countries that would not ordinarily qualify for such events, because in doing so we give them a platform to compete at the highest level, to showcase their abilities and to prove that they too can organise and deliver football of the highest standard,” said Dr Motsepe.
The championship extended beyond the matches themselves, evolving into what organisers described as a festival of football. Players, coaches, officials, volunteers and supporters all took part in an event that emphasised opportunity and collaboration across the continent.
Zimbabwe’s role as host was seen as particularly significant, with the smooth running of the tournament offering a strong signal of the country’s capability to stage major international sporting events. CAF worked closely with the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) throughout the competition to ensure that operations ran efficiently.
From logistics and match coordination to fan engagement and legacy initiatives, organisers reported that the tournament maintained high professional standards. Matchday experiences were also enhanced by the presence of African football legends, who interacted with young players and added further prestige to the occasion.
Hundreds of volunteers contributed to the success of the championship, playing key roles in delivering the event. Their efforts, combined with strong organisational support, helped create an environment that was both welcoming and professionally managed.
Local supporters also turned out in significant numbers, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the matches. Their engagement was credited with creating a vibrant atmosphere that reflected Zimbabwe’s deep-rooted passion for football.
For Zimbabwean football authorities, the tournament represented both a moment of pride and an opportunity to gain valuable experience in hosting large-scale events. ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi described the championship as an important milestone for the country’s football development.
Overall, the 2026 CAF African Schools Football Championship was seen as a success not only in sporting terms but also in its broader aim of promoting youth empowerment and unity through football across Africa.
