The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Matabeleland South Paralympic Team following its outstanding performance at the 2026 Zimbabwe National Youth and Paralympic Games held in Marondera, Mashonaland East Province.
Matabeleland South has every reason to celebrate after its Paralympic team emerged as 2026 National Paralympic Champions, finishing at the top of the national Paralympic medal standings.
In an extraordinary display of talent, courage, resilience and determination, the Province travelled with a small contingent of only 11 athletes, who remarkably brought home 10 Gold Medals, 7 Silver Medals and 4 Bronze Medals.
This historic achievement demonstrates that success is not determined by the size of a team, but by discipline, commitment, preparation, talent and an unwavering determination to succeed.
“I congratulate our athletes for raising the Matabeleland South flag high on the national stage. With only 11 athletes, you demonstrated extraordinary courage and fighting spirit and returned home as national champions. You have made your families, communities and the entire Province proud,” said Hon. Nguluvhe.
The Minister also commended the coaches, team managers, technical officials and all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare and support the athletes throughout the Games.
Hon. Nguluvhe further expressed profound appreciation to the business community, companies, organisations, institutions and individuals who responded to the call to support Team Matabeleland South through financial and material donations.
Their contributions towards the team's transport, travel requirements, accommodation, meals and general welfare played an important role in enabling the athletes to participate successfully at the national Games.
“The success we celebrate today belongs not only to our athletes but to everyone who stood behind them. I sincerely thank our business community, companies and all well-wishers who contributed towards the travel and welfare of our team. Your generosity and partnership made a meaningful difference and demonstrated what we can achieve when Government, the private sector and communities work together,” said the Minister.
The Province values this spirit of partnership and calls upon the corporate sector and other stakeholders to continue investing in sport development, particularly inclusive sport and opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
The achievements of our Paralympic athletes send a powerful message that disability is not inability. Given the right opportunities, resources and support, athletes with disabilities can compete at the highest level and bring honour to their communities, province and nation.
The Government remains committed to promoting inclusive development in line with the national development agenda and the principle of leaving no one and no place behind.
To our 2026 National Paralympic Champions, Matabeleland South says: Congratulations! You have made history, inspired a Province and written your names permanently into the sporting history of Matabeleland South.