Zimbabwe Introduces New Tax – Licence Fee For All Athletics Events Including Fun Runs

Zimbabwe Athletes & Runners Face New Tax As Fun Runs No Longer Free

The National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe has announced a new annual licence fee that every athlete must pay to participate in any running event. This sweeping new charge, set to take effect at the start of 2026, will apply to everyone, from elite competitors to weekend fun runners.

According to a circular issued on 27 September 2025, the fee is mandatory for all. The directive states that the cost is US$7.00 (approximately R130). This total includes a US$4.00 (approximately R74) levy for the Sports and Recreation Commission. The new rule means that no one can enter any organised race without first purchasing this licence.

The circular makes the message clear:

“With effect from 1 January 2026, all athletes must pay an annual licence fee of US$7.00 (inclusive of SRC Levy of US$4.00) in order to participate in any athletics event in Zimbabwe—whether a fun run, social run, or any other competitive or recreational race.”

“No Licence, No Race” Says Athletics Body

The regulations outlined in the circular leave no room for doubt. Race organisers are now legally forbidden from registering any athlete who does not hold a valid annual licence.

The circular warns:

“No race organiser shall register an athlete who does not hold a valid annual licence.”

For those who do not compete regularly, a temporary licence is available. However, this comes at a higher cost of US$10.00 (approximately R185).

The directive goes further to spell out penalties for anyone who ignores the rules:

“Race organisers, clubs, and coaches who violate these statutory regulations are liable to a fine. Repeat offences may result in a ban from all athletics activities.”

It also states that the government, through the SRC, is fully backing the new system:

“The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has received this directive on behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe.”

Public Reaction And Concerns

The announcement has sparked a significant reaction from the running community across Zimbabwe. Many casual runners feel the new fee is an unfair burden. They argue that fun runs and social events are for personal enjoyment and health, not professional competition.

One Harare-based runner, Tinashe Moyo, voiced his frustration on social media. He wrote:

“This is just another way to tax ordinary people. I run for my health, not for a trophy. Why must I pay US$7 to join a charity fun run? Hazvina musoro (It doesn’t make sense).”

Another runner, Sarah Jones from Bulawayo, questioned the timing. She said:

“With the economy as it is, an extra US$7 is a lot for many families. This will stop people from being active. It’s very disappointing.”

What The New Licence Means For You

From 1 January 2026, every person wishing to take part in an official running event must have a licence. This applies to all events, regardless of distance or competitive nature.

The circular ends with a strong directive:

“All stakeholders are required to ensure strict compliance with the above regulations.”

The National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe has provided its contact details, including its website www.naaz.org.zw, for further information. Runners and organisers alike now wait to see how the policy will be enforced and what its long-term impact will be on athletics in Zimbabwe.