Zimbabwe has taken a major step toward diversifying its sports and youth culture scene with the official opening of Samkele Skate Park: the country’s first public skate park, in the resort city of Victoria Falls. The launch marks a milestone in Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive, youth-driven sports under the government’s National Development Strategy One (NDS1).
A Welcome Addition to Zimbabwe’s Sporting Landscape
Opened on 1 November 2025, Samkele Skate Park, named after the Ndebele word for “welcome” is more than just a place for skateboards and tricks. It’s designed as a community hub where young people can gather, learn, and express themselves creatively through sport.
“This is something new and exciting for us,” said one young skater at the opening. “It will motivate us to practise more. Skateboarding stars will be born here.”
Collaboration and Vision
The project was brought to life through a partnership between Victoria Falls Skate Club, The Push Project, and Wonders Around the World, a non-profit organization dedicated to building skate parks in developing regions. Together, they aimed to create a safe and inclusive space that would empower young Zimbabweans while boosting the local economy through sports tourism.
According to Structure and Design Zimbabwe, the park’s completion demonstrates how collaboration between local and international partners can foster meaningful youth-oriented infrastructure.
Beyond Recreation: Building Communities
Government officials at the opening emphasised that the park plays a crucial role in youth engagement and crime prevention. By providing an outlet for energy and creativity, Samkele Skate Park is expected to help curb social challenges linked to idle time among young people.
“Facilities like this are essential,” said trainer Blessing Moyo. “They don’t just give kids a sport, they give them purpose. This park will attract tournaments to Victoria Falls and bring more visitors to explore our tourist attractions.”
Aligning with National Goals
The initiative aligns with the NDS1’s target of increasing sport and recreation participation from 15% in 2020 to 27% by 2025. Skateboarding’s inclusion also reflects a broader recognition of alternative sports as viable tools for youth development and international representation.
While the park’s opening is a breakthrough, challenges remain. Zimbabwe currently lacks a fully recognised national skateboarding federation, which limits competitive development and access to funding. Sustaining the facility through maintenance, coaching, and year-round programming will also be key to its long-term success.
A New Tourist and Cultural Landmark
Situated in one of the world’s most iconic destinations, Samkele Skate Park adds a fresh attraction to Victoria Falls, blending adventure tourism with youth culture. Local leaders believe it could become a magnet for regional skateboarding events, promoting Zimbabwe as a vibrant, forward-looking destination.
Looking Ahead
The opening of Zimbabwe’s first public skate park marks the beginning of what could become a thriving skate culture across the country. If well supported, Samkele Skate Park may inspire similar projects nationwide, giving young people across Zimbabwe new spaces to dream, connect, and push their limits, one trick at a time.
