COSSASA Games Postponed to August for Event Improvements
The Confederation of Schools Sports Association of Southern Africa (COSSASA) Games, originally scheduled for April 2025 in Eswatini, have now been postponed to August 26–31, as confirmed by COSSASA president Arthur Maposa.
The executive committee reviewed past editions, particularly the 2024 Games in Zimbabwe, and determined that combining all categories into a single tournament would be more cost-effective.
Officials also inspected Somhlolo National Stadium and identified the need for track upgrades, prompting adjustments to the schedule.
“Our games were scheduled to take place in Eswatini at the end of April, but we had to make these changes after sitting down as an executive and the board in Eswatini, reviewing how the games were handled when COSSASA took place in Zimbabwe in 2024,” Maposa told ZBC News.
He further explained that last year’s White City Stadium model proved successful, prompting the executive to adopt a similar approach for the upcoming edition.
“Therefore, as COSSASA members, we agreed to continue with that same model in Eswatini, scheduled for August 26 to August 31 this year.
We had an inspection and concluded that the track at Somhlolo needs more attention. This comes as both a blessing in disguise for the hosts although it dampens higher expectations by the hosts,” Maposa stated.
The 2025 COSSASA Games will feature athletes from Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi and Zambia, competing in football, handball, basketball, netball, and volleyball across Under-15 and Under-18 categories.
The event is expected to boost Eswatini’s local economy, with preparations underway for logistics, accommodation, and security.
Officials also emphasized the importance of anti-doping measures and fair competition, ensuring all athletes meet the necessary eligibility requirements.
