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Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
The establishment of the KCD Mohadi sports tournament is set to go a long way in the promotion of sports development from the grassroots around Matabeleland South province, the Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Cde Emily Jesaya has said.
She made the remarks at Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda on Sunday where 12 teams representing all the constituencies in the province gathered for netball and soccer competitions.
During the same program, youths were also taught various sporting disciplines including volleyball.
The KCD Mohadi sport tournament is a brainchild of the Zanu PF Youth League Matabeleland South Chapter and it will be held annually in honour of Vice President Mohadi’s leadership qualities.
The Vice President who is from Beitbridge in Matabeleland South also attended the colourful event that attracted a full house.
Gwanda Tshitaudze constituency’s soccer and netball team won both soccer and netball competitions.
“Today I stand before you with immense pleasure as we gather here in Matabeleland South Province, affectionately known as “the Rainbow Province,” to celebrate the life and legacy of the Honourable Vice President Mohadi. We honour his guidance and commitment through a vibrant display of sports and various exhibitions,” said the deputy minister.
“As the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, we are delighted to witness the grassroots initiatives led by the Zanu PF ruling party’s Matabeleland South Provincial Youth League under the astute leadership of Cde Moses Langa.
“The Games have successfully progressed from the ward level to constituencies, and today, we gathered for the much-anticipated final competitions, a true testament to our continuity and dedication to youth engagement.”
Cde Jesaya said the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1) underscores the importance of youth participation in sports, highlighting how these games serve as a premier platform for discovering and nurturing talent.
She added that such a platform offers a pathway for youth development and empowerment, fostering good health, promoting Unhu/Ubuntu values, inspiring entrepreneurship, and striving for sporting excellence.
Cde Jesaya said among other things the athletes had engaged in edutainment activities designed to educate them about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
“These activities also equip them with vital social skills and values necessary for navigating their lives. Topics covered included HIV and AIDS awareness, sexual reproductive health, and various forms of abuse—issues that are crucial for our youth’s well-being,” she said.
“On this significant day, January 26, 2025, I challenge all the youth present to embrace sports wholeheartedly. Participating in sports not only allows our youth to experience success and have fun but also instils a strong sense of patriotism.”
Online Reporter