Where Tradition
Meets Innovation.
About the Conference
In the age of rapid technological advancement and globalisation, there is an urgent need to preserve, perpetuate, and integrate the world's diverse cultural heritage with contemporary scientific inquiry. The inaugural Joshua Nkomo Sports Science and Physical Activity Conference initiates a powerful conversation between modern sports science and ancient wisdom.
Indigenous games, dances, and traditions are not just relics of the past; they are living, breathing systems of knowledge. They teach us about community, health, and identity, and have sustained societies for generations. Meanwhile, sports science and technology offer incredible tools to boost performance, health, and connection.
Magic happens when tradition meets innovation. Inspired by the incredible legacy of Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, we are creating a space for elders, thinkers, and doers to come together. Let us celebrate indigenous physical culture, explore its fusion with science, and unlock new ways to thrive — together.
To co-create a future where indigenous knowledge and empirical knowledge (science) unite to boost physical activity, wellness, and cultural pride across Zimbabwe, Africa, and the world.
Conference Goals
Preserve Zimbabwean Cultural Heritage
Document, celebrate, and transmit indigenous games, dances, and physical cultural practices to future generations.
Enrich Physical Activities
Integrate indigenous wisdom with sports science to enhance physical education, community health, and athlete development programmes.
Encourage Innovation
Foster new methodologies and approaches to community health, athlete development, and inclusive education that honour both tradition and evidence.
Promote Sustainable Practices
Advance ethical leadership, sustainable event management, entrepreneurship, and women in sport across the sector.
About Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo
Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo
1917 – 1999
"Father Zimbabwe" • "Umdala Wethu"
Nationalist leader • Trade unionist • Statesman
Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo (1917–1999) was a Zimbabwean nationalist leader, trade unionist, and statesman who dedicated his life to the liberation and unity of Zimbabwe. Known affectionately as 'Father Zimbabwe' and 'Umdala Wethu', he was a unifying figure whose vision extended beyond politics to encompass education, social justice, and the empowerment of all Zimbabweans.
His legacy of bringing people together, valuing diverse perspectives, 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.
Organising Partners
Ministry of Primary & Secondary Education
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is in charge of Primary and Secondary Education in Zimbabwe, including special and lifelong education, sport, arts and culture. It envisions innovative, well-educated Zimbabweans rooted in Unhu/Ubuntu and promotes high-quality, inclusive education.
National University of Science & Technology (NUST)
A public research university in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, with a mission to advance science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship to support national industrialisation. NUST's motto is "Think in other terms." Its Department of Sports Science and Coaching offers a BSc (Hons) equipping students with comprehensive sport and exercise science knowledge.
Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust
The JNLRP Trust preserves and advances the life, vision, and ideals of Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, widely honoured as Father Zimbabwe. The Trust translates his commitment to peace, unity, and social justice into practical programmes that strengthen national cohesion, celebrate cultural heritage, and empower communities.