Online Reporter
Don Makanyanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
INNOCENT Benza, MP for Mutasa Central and owner of Herentals FC, is urging the Government to offer tax rebates to companies that sponsor sport, arguing that without incentives, corporate support for the sector will continue to dwindle.
Benza made the appeal in Parliament last week through a motion that was seconded by Binga North MP, Fannuel Cumanzala.
He highlighted the critical role businesses play in promoting sport and emphasised the importance of sports and the arts in shaping national pride, culture, unity, wellness and economic development.
“That this House (National Assembly) acknowledges the critical role played by business entities in supporting and promoting sport in the country.
“Cognisant that sports play a unifying role and enhance national pride, cultural identity, unity, physiological and physical wellness.
“We are concerned about the lack of tax relief measures for business entities that promote sports,” said Benza.
His call comes amid growing pressure for the Government to create a tax incentive framework for companies involved in sponsoring sport.
At present, Zimbabwe has no policy that offers such benefits, despite repeated appeals from within the industry.
Benza believes that offering tax incentives would not only attract new sponsors but also ease the burden on those already involved.
“We’re concerned about the lack of tax relief measures for business entities that promote sports, despite the role they play in generating income and creating jobs.
“Now therefore, this House calls upon the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to offer a structured tax relief scheme to all businesses that invest in arts, sports and culture as a way of encouraging more players to promote these activities,” he said.
Benza warned that the absence of such incentives continues to deter companies from backing sport, since their involvement comes with no clear return.
He stressed that sport has the power to transform lives, unify communities, and contribute meaningfully to the economy if given the right support.
