Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
THE Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland South, Albert Nguluvhe, says grassroots sports form a firm foundation for the future. Speaking during the prize handover ceremony — also attended by football legend Peter Ndlovu — Minister Nguluvhe praised Ziyah Media, a Beitbridge-based multimedia organisation, for its efforts in promoting sport in communities.
The organisation hosted its third annual soccer tournament for boys and girls from local schools on Sunday, aimed at exposing and nurturing talent from rural areas in the border town.
“Grassroots sports are the very foundation of our nation’s sporting future. Talent is everywhere — in every town and village — waiting to be discovered. But it’s more than just finding the next champion,” said the Minister.
The Ziyah Media Soccer Tournament brought together young athletes from 10 schools to compete and showcase their skills.
The participating schools included Tongwe, Zezani, Vhembe, Chibi, Fountain, Malala, St Mary’s, Malungudzi, Siyoka and Nuli High Schools. Chibi High won the boys’ competition for the third consecutive year after beating Tongwe High 5-4 on penalties, while Malungudzi clinched the girls’ title with a solitary goal against Siyoka.
“Sport is a powerful catalyst for social change and human development. It teaches discipline, teamwork, respect, integrity and resilience. Investing in oneself is admirable, but investing in others — as we see here today — is a giant step for humanity. I must especially commend our host, Ziyah Media, ably led by Loadwell Ziyadumah, for setting such a high standard,” said the Minister.
Minister Nguluvhe reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports and promoting the development of young athletes. He said the Government was collaborating with stakeholders to enhance support for essential equipment, facilities and materials in sports development.
The Minister added that investing in sport at grassroots level will help reduce the scourge of drug and substance abuse among youths.
“Events like these are important in keeping our youths away from drugs and other social vices. As you know, we are hosting next year’s National Independence celebrations — and I envision the stadium being in Maphisa, a place that doesn’t have one,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“We urge all municipalities and local authorities to facilitate the establishment of sports facilities to engage our youth. To all the young athletes present today: embrace the spirit of sportsmanship. Play fair, respect your opponents and officials, and above all, enjoy every moment. The skills you learn in the field today will serve you for a lifetime — not just in sport, but in your academics and future careers.”
Zimbabwean football legend Peter Ndlovu inspired the young athletes with his story of perseverance and dedication to the sport.
“This is a good move by Ziyah Media to develop soccer from junior level. To the athletes, I urge you to respect your talent, follow your dream and embrace opportunities like these where you get to expose your skills to scouts,” said Ndlovu. “It is also pleasing to note that gender discrimination is fading away. We now have more girls’ soccer teams coming up and getting support. This is commendable.”
Event organiser Loadwell Ziyadumah said the tournament was growing each year, with the number of participating teams increasing steadily.
“As an organisation, this is our small way of promoting talent from grassroots level. In future, we intend to grow into a national tournament,” said Ziyadumah.
