During the official opening ceremony of the XII Youth Games of Region 5 of the African Union of Sports (AUSC) in Maputo, the government emphasized that the impact of this event, which will bring together young athletes from ten Southern African countries, should be assessed not only by sporting results but also by the economic and institutional benefits for the country.
A government representative stated that the presence of thousands of athletes, officials, and visitors creates an opportunity to boost sectors such as hospitality, catering, transport, trade, and other services, thereby promoting economic activity and enhancing Mozambique's image.
The competitions will take place from December 3 to 14 in the cities of Maputo and Matola and will attract young athletes from ten Southern African countries: South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
According to the Prime Minister, the games should also help strengthen the country's capacity to organize international events. The government representative noted that these games should enhance the country's ability to host international events and leave a positive legacy for the cities of Maputo and Matola.
Furthermore, the government intends to turn this event into a collective opportunity by involving state institutions, the private sector, and civil society, emphasizing that it is a chance belonging to everyone.
In this regard, she appealed to national and international companies to support the organization of the competitions through financial sponsorship, as well as in kind contributions of goods and services.
It was noted that there is a need not only for financial sponsorship but also for the provision of equipment and sports materials, transport, accommodation, food, technology, communications, medical care, logistics, and other necessary services.
Levi also opined that the participation of the private sector should be viewed as an investment in youth and the development of Mozambican sports.
Besides the economic aspect, the government representative insisted that the competitions can contribute to identifying new talents and strengthening national sports structures. She stated: 'We hope that hosting the Games will contribute to discovering and recognizing new talents, strengthening our sports structures, and stimulating sports among young people.'
The Games are organized by Region 5 of the African Union of Sports and are considered one of the most important youth competitions in Southern Africa.