By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Beitbridge — Beitbridge is gearing up to become the epicentre of young intellectual talent in Southern Africa, as preparations get underway for the Madzimbabwe International Primary Schools Championships, scheduled for April 2026.
The tournament, described as a Pre-SADC competition, is expected to attract schools from across the region and raise the standard of academic contests in areas such as quiz, debate, storytelling, and public speaking.
The announcement follows Zimbabwe’s strong showing at the SADC Primary Schools Championships held earlier this month in Johannesburg, where local learners delivered commendable performances. Led by That Voice Speech Academy Head Coach, Rebecca Muleya, and Oakleigh House Trust School Lead Patron, Patience Ramakgapola, the 15-member Zimbabwean team recorded notable achievements.
Among the highlights, Keemly Manikisi secured a spot among the top five spellers in the region, while Sandra Moyo ranked among the top six storytellers. The Oakleigh House debate team featuring Natalie Gufe, Gabriela Mutemi, Aibekgotso Tshakalisa, Mufaro Mushava, and Tawananyasha Chiswo also made it to the semi-finals, marking a proud moment for Zimbabwe.
Speaking after the Johannesburg championships, Coach Muleya said the upcoming Beitbridge event will be a springboard for more regional success.
“The Madzimbabwe International Championships will provide our learners with a platform to sharpen their skills ahead of future SADC contests. We want Beitbridge to be the heartbeat of young academic excellence in the region.”
The April 2026 event will also serve as a preparatory stage for Zimbabwean learners heading to the Temame Oratory Championships in Botswana in December and future SADC editions.
As anticipation builds, Beitbridge is positioning itself not only as a border town of strategic importance but also as a hub for educational and cultural exchange in Southern Africa.