By Stephen Atone Ngomani
The games, running from 23 to 27 April 2026, are being held under the theme *“Promoting Excellence, Unity, and Drug-Free Champions,”* reflecting a renewed focus on discipline, performance, and holistic student development through sport.
Competitions will be staged across multiple disciplines, including volleyball, netball, karate, cricket, pool, handball, and Paralympic events, highlighting both competitive and inclusive participation.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, ZUS President Mr Olivah Guvuriro reflected on the growth of university sport in Zimbabwe since its inception in 1999. He noted that the organisation has evolved from the Zimbabwe University Sports Association (ZUSA) to Zimbabwe University Sport (ZUS), with plans underway to further elevate the competitions through the introduction of scholarships for student-athletes.
“We have come a long way since 1999, and our rebranding from ZUSA to ZUS marks a new chapter. Our vision now is to take university sport to the next level, including introducing scholarships for talented athletes,” said Mr Guvuriro.
The Guest of Honour, Professor Herbert Zirima, welcomed the inclusion of Paralympic sports in this year’s programme, describing it as a significant step towards inclusivity in university sport.
He also raised concern over the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse, noting that it continues to negatively affect young people in Zimbabwe and globally. He urged universities to use sport as a tool for awareness, discipline, and positive behaviour change.
The ZUS Cluster 2 Games are expected to foster unity among institutions while promoting sporting excellence and talent development among university students.