Deputy Ambassador and Minister of Tourism Inspire the Warriors in Saudi Arabia

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform the public that the Zimbabwe Warriors today received an inspiring and uplifting address from the Republic of Zimbabwe Deputy Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Tendai Manyuvire, together with the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and Vice President of United Nations Tourism, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, during their official visit ahead of the international friendly match against Algeria.

Deputy Ambassador Manyuvire welcomed the Warriors to Saudi Arabia, emphasising that being selected to represent Zimbabwe is a profound honour.

He stated: “Out of a nation of sixteen million people, only twenty-two players are entrusted with carrying our flag. You are those twenty-two.”

He encouraged the team to use their God-given talents to uplift Zimbabwe and reminded them that, wherever they go, they remain ambassadors of their homeland. The Deputy Ambassador further highlighted that the Warriors’ presence has strengthened diplomatic ties between Zimbabwe and Saudi Arabia. He confirmed that the Embassy has mobilised Zimbabweans living in Saudi Arabia to support the team at the stadium.

Hon. Minister Barbara Rwodzi expressed great excitement at meeting the Warriors, and extended her gratitude to the players for answering the call to represent the country.She reaffirmed the partnership between the Ministry of Tourism and ZIFA, noting that sport plays a vital role in promoting Zimbabwe’s global image.

The Minister remarked that by participating in the CAF tournament, the Warriors are “already winners”, adding that the friendly match against Algeria is a key step in preparing for AFCON 2025 in Morocco.She encouraged the players to take pride in representing Zimbabwe, to be ambassadors of the nation in every part of the world, and to support one another throughout the journey.

Hon. Rwodzi reiterated Government’s full commitment to supporting the Warriors all the way to the AFCON finals and beyond.

The engagement concluded with a luncheon attended by the full Zimbabwean delegation and the Honourable Minister.

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