Online Reporter
Obey Sibanda
VILLAGERS from various villages have started converging at the Maweni Business Centre for the start of Gwanda North Constituency Sports Tournament in Sunday.
Six men’s football teams will battle for honours while four women’s sides are taking part in the tournament bankrolled to the tune of R20 000.
As the crowd continues to gather, Maqendimbuzi and his band, known for their popular songs in the village, are entertaining villagers and keeping the atmosphere lively throughout the day.
The tournament is being held under the theme “Phendukekhaya ku Zanu PF” and is sponsored by the Zanu PF’s Gwanda North politician Lungisani Coster Ncube.
Ncube is a gold miner in Matabeleland South Province.
He said the initiative to sponsor a sports tournament is to reinforce President Mnangagwa’s call for communities to unite against drug and substance abuse.
“Our visionary leader, President Mnangagwa, whose leadership has made it possible for us to be able to operate businesses in our country, is on a drive to eliminate drug and substance abuse.
“This is my way of emulating the President’s initiative and my call for business to help Government fight the scourge. Sports brings communities together, including the youth, who are at the centre of this campaign to rid our society of drugs,” said Ncube.
He said he believes keeping young people engaged through sport and positive community events can help steer them away from harmful behaviour, adding that the programme is also aimed at encouraging discipline and unity.
He added that the tournament will also be used to educate villagers about the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.3) Bill.
“We will take this opportunity to bring awareness about the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.3) Bill.
“Villagers need to know what it entails and its benefits,” he said.
Youth taking part in the tournament welcomed the sponsor’s initiative, saying such events bring them together in a meaningful way.
“Such an event brings us together as youths is. Instead of engaging in dangerous substances, we have been given a chance to showcase our talent,” said Khulekani Ndlovu, captain of the Gqalaza men’s soccer team.
Teams, both men and women, taking part in the tournament are from Maweni, Simbumbumbu, Sitezi and Gqalaza, Mayezani and Mapane villages.
Each village will host the tournament on a rotational basis.
