President Mnangagwa and Sports Minister Celebrate Ropafadzo Mzondo’s Historic Youth Olympic Games Victory
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has congratulated Zimbabwean sprinter Ropafadzo Mzondo after he made history by winning gold in the men’s 200m final at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Mzondo clocked an impressive 21.04 seconds on Tuesday evening to secure the gold medal, giving Zimbabwe its first-ever medal at the Youth Olympic Games since the competition was introduced.
His achievement has drawn praise from the country’s leadership, with both President Mnangagwa and the Minister of Sports Anselem Sanyatwe celebrating the young athlete’s performance.
Also Read: Zimbabwe’s Ropafadzo Muzondo Wins Historic Gold In Youth Olympic Games 200m Final
President Mnangagwa Hails Mzondo’s Historic Achievement
In a post on X, President Mnangagwa described the victory as a major milestone for Zimbabwean sport, praising the teenager for putting the country on the international athletics map.
The President also highlighted the potential of young Zimbabwean athletes, saying Mzondo’s performance demonstrated what they could achieve when given opportunities to compete on the world stage.
He wrote:
Heartfelt congratulations to our young sprint sensation, Ropafadzo Mzondo, on making sporting history! 
On Tuesday evening, Ropafadzo stormed to victory in a commanding 21.04 seconds to win Gold in the men’s 200m final at the Youth Olympic Games. By claiming the top podium spot, he has secured Zimbabwe’s first-ever medal at the event since its inception.
This remarkable achievement is a proud milestone for Zimbabwean athletics and a shining testament to the boundless potential of our youth. When given the stage, Zimbabwean talent shines brightly before the world.
Well done, Ropafadzo—you have raised our national flag high and inspired an entire generation!
Sports Minister Also Celebrates Zimbabwean Sprinter
The Minister of Sports Anselem Sanyatwe also joined in celebrating Mzondo’s success, expressing excitement over the gold medal and describing the sprinter as a source of national pride.
In a separate post on X, the minister used the Shona expression “Mukomana atidadisa!” to express delight at the young athlete’s achievement.
The minister wrote:
Mukomana atidadisa!
I am filled with overwhelming happiness as Ropafadzo Mzondo strikes GOLD at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games!
You have made our nation proud Ropafadzo! Zimbabwe is celebrating you. Our flag flies high, and our future is GOLDEN!
Congratulations, CHAMPION! The world has witnessed Zimbabwean excellence!
Mzondo’s victory marks a historic moment for Zimbabwe at the Youth Olympic Games, with the sprinter’s gold medal giving the country its first podium finish in the competition.
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