Chronicle Editor
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
THE Bulawayo City Council’s decision to terminate its lease agreement with Khanyisile Foundation has dealt a devastating blow to basketball in the city.
The Khanyisile Sports Centre, formerly known as BCD, was being run by Khanyisile Foundation which reportedly owes BCC a substantial amount in unpaid rates leading to the lease termination.
The venue has been the hub of basketball activity in the city for years.
Bulawayo Basketball Association (BBA) secretary-general, Francis Dube, said their programmes have been affected by the lease termination.
“The closure of the facility has affected Bulawayo Basketball Association greatly as we now have to look for alternative venues to play our games.
“The major problem is that this is the only indoor venue available, and with the onset of rains, games are affected.
“We have since applied to BCC to allow us to use the venue. We hope we will be successful,” said Dube.
Another veteran administrator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed dismay at the council’s move to completely close the facility citing its far-reaching consequences.
“The termination of this contract has devastating effects on the game.
“The Bulawayo Basketball Association is now at a loss, and the city has not seen any basketball action since November 1, which is disheartening.”
The BBA has relocated its matches to Eveline High School, but concerns mount about the long-term implications for the sport in the city.
The wheelchair basketball tournament is also in jeopardy.
Dube pointed to the importance of sports in keeping the youth engaged and away from social vices like alcohol, drug and substance abuse.
This setback follows the aborted Khanyisile Basketball tournament, which was cut short due to a payment dispute between referees and tournament organisers.
Basketball’s popularity in Bulawayo dates back to the 1980s and 1990s, but internal problems led to a decline.
As the city’s basketball community comes to terms with the council’s decision, the future of the sport hangs in the balance.
Will Bulawayo’s basketball enthusiasts find a way to revive the game, or will this mark the beginning of the end for this once-thriving sport? Only time will tell. — -@innocentskizoe
Online Reporter