The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, this week hosted former British professional boxer and former IBF Welterweight World Champion, Mr. Kell Brook, during a special “Meet and Greet Zimbabwe” engagement held in the province.
The visit provided an important platform to celebrate sporting excellence, promote the development of boxing talent among young people, and strengthen efforts aimed at empowering communities through sport. The engagement also afforded Mr. Brook an opportunity to interact with local boxing stakeholders, tour boxing clubs and academies, and share his vast experience and expertise with aspiring athletes.
Speaking during the event, Honourable Nguluvhe warmly welcomed Mr. Brook to Matabeleland South Province and commended him for dedicating his time and experience to inspiring the next generation of Zimbabwean boxers.
“Matabeleland South is endowed with abundant sporting talent, particularly in boxing. Despite facing several challenges, our young athletes continue to demonstrate resilience, determination, and great potential.
We are honoured to host a world-renowned champion whose achievements serve as an inspiration to our youth,” said Honourable Nguluvhe.
The Minister acknowledged the significant challenges affecting the growth and development of boxing and combat sports in the province, including inadequate funding, limited training infrastructure, shortages of equipment, and insufficient investment in the sport. He noted that while the province currently boasts seven professional boxers and approximately one hundred amateur boxers across various districts, there remains a pressing need to improve facilities and create more opportunities for athletes to compete and develop their skills.
Honourable Nguluvhe further emphasised the important role that sport plays in youth empowerment and in addressing social challenges such as drug and substance abuse. He highlighted boxing as a powerful tool for promoting discipline, healthy lifestyles, self-confidence, and positive community engagement among young people.
The Minister paid tribute to the late boxing icon Ndodana Ncube for his contribution to the sport and called for improved athlete welfare systems to support local boxers throughout their careers. He also commended stakeholders, local authorities, sporting associations, and development partners who continue to support the advancement of boxing in the province.
In line with the Government’s Devolution Agenda and Vision 2030, Honourable Nguluvhe called for strengthened collaboration between Government, local authorities, the private sector, and development partners to establish modern boxing facilities, support local tournaments and competitions, and provide essential medical, travel, and welfare assistance to athletes.
The Minister further appealed to Mr. Brook to assist in creating international exposure and opportunities for talented boxers from Matabeleland South, enabling them to showcase their abilities on regional and global platforms.
“Through collective effort and strategic partnerships, we can unlock the full sporting potential of our province, nurture future champions, and create meaningful opportunities for our youth,” he said.
The Government of Zimbabwe remains committed to leveraging sport as a catalyst for youth development, social inclusion, and economic empowerment, while creating an enabling environment for talent identification and growth across all districts of Matabeleland South Province.
Hon. Albert Nguluvhe
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution
Matabeleland South Province