Director General Elta Nengomasha has officially left the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), closing a chapter that has been as eventful as it has been impactful on Zimbabwe’s sporting landscape.
In her parting message, Nengomasha reflected on the partnerships she built and the progress achieved under her watch. “Sport is richer because of the synergies created with the media on various forums,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of collaboration in driving national sporting success.
Her exit marks the end of a tenure marked by notable achievements, particularly the resurgence of some of the country’s national teams. The Zimbabwe rugby team’s victory in the Africa Rugby Cup in July stands as one of the highlights, while sprinter Tapiwa Makarau continues to shine on the track, lifting the national flag with pride. Nengomasha herself made reference to these feats, urging the nation not to lose sight of the athletes who continue to inspire. “As I exit the group, kindly do not forget to watch Tapiwa Makarau as he lifts the national flag with pride,” she said.
Despite her accomplishments, her time at the helm was not without turbulence. Her suspension in October last year sent shockwaves through the sporting fraternity, particularly given her celebrated leadership as Chef de Mission for Team Zimbabwe at the 2023 African Games in Accra, Ghana. Many in the sector viewed her departure as both the closing of a controversial chapter and the loss of an experienced administrator who had proven her ability to rally teams on the continental stage.
Nengomasha herself chose to leave on a gracious note, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to have steered the SRC. “As I tap out, I am grateful for the opportunity to have served my country at the realm of sports administration. I wish the sector all the best in all its endeavours,” she said.
Her departure leaves Zimbabwean sport at a crossroads, balancing the need to address governance concerns while sustaining the momentum of recent on-field successes. As the baton changes hands, the challenge will be to ensure that the gains made under her stewardship are not lost, and that the country continues to nurture the talent that has kept its flag flying high on regional and international stages.
