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Inaugural Conference 1–3 September 2026 / Harare, Zimbabwe

Celebrating Physical Activity,
Wellness & Cultural Pride.

Join us for an unprecedented gathering where indigenous physical culture, sports science, and digital innovation converge. Inspired by the legacy of Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, we are creating a space for elders, scholars, practitioners, and innovators to co-create the future of physical activity in Africa and beyond.

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Indigenous Games & Sport Science  * 1–3 September 2026  * Harare, Zimbabwe  * Cultural Pride & Innovation  * Register Now  * Indigenous Games & Sport Science  * 1–3 September 2026  * Harare, Zimbabwe  * Cultural Pride & Innovation  * Register Now  *
Why Attend?

Five Reasons to Be There

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Network with Leading Experts

Connect with pioneers in sports science, indigenous games research, physical education, and sports management from across Africa and the world.

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Inspiring Keynotes & Panels

Hear from visionary speakers exploring the intersection of indigenous knowledge systems and empirical science in sport and physical activity.

Open books and academic research
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Publication Opportunities

Present your research with the opportunity for publication in peer-reviewed conference proceedings.

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Cultural Immersion

Experience live demonstrations of indigenous games, traditional dances, and physical cultural practices that have sustained communities for generations.

Award ceremony and certification
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Professional Certification

Receive a Certificate of Participation recognising your engagement with this landmark event.

1st Joshua Nkomo Conference

Ready to join us?

Harare, Zimbabwe • 1–3 September 2026

Register Now
Mark Your Calendar

Important Dates

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First Call for Abstracts

10 June 2026

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Second Call for Abstracts

30 June 2026

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Final Call for Abstracts

30 July 2026

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Early Bird Registration Closes

10 July 2026

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Final Abstract Submission

15 August 2026

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Conference Dates

1–3 September 2026

Conference Theme

Synergy in Physical Culture: Integrating Indigenous Knowledge, Science and Digital Futures in Sport and Physical Activity

Five sub-themes guide the programme — from indigenous games and oral history to sports science, physical education, physical activity, and sports management.

Explore the Themes arrow_forward
Indigenous Games, Dances & Oral History
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Indigenous Games, Dances & Oral History

Sports Science
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Sports Science

Physical Education
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Physical Education

Sports Management
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Sports Management

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Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo

1917 – 1999

"Father Zimbabwe" • "Umdala Wethu"

Our Inspiration

Inspired by a Unifying Legacy

Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo dedicated his life to the liberation and unity of Zimbabwe. Known as 'Father Zimbabwe' and 'Umdala Wethu', his legacy of bringing people together and building bridges across communities inspires this conference.

Just as Dr. Nkomo worked to unify a nation, this conference seeks to unify indigenous wisdom with modern science for the benefit of physical culture and human flourishing.

Learn More About the Conference arrow_forward
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Traditional sport and game
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Limited Places Available

Secure Your Place

Registration: Local Delegates $250  |  International Delegates $350

★ Early Bird Special: Local $200 / International $300 — closes 10 July 2026

Organising Partners

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Ministry of Primary & Secondary Education

Zimbabwe

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National University of Science & Technology

NUST • Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

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Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust

JNLRP Trust