Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
MATABELELAND South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has called on local authorities to improve solid waste management systems through regular door-to-door waste collection, efficient transportation and the establishment of compliant landfill facilities.
Speaking during the 11th edition of the Beitbridge Mayor’s Anti-Litter 21.1km Half Marathon held between Lutumba Growth Point and Beitbridge Central Business District on Saturday, Minister Nguluvhe said councils must uphold minimum service delivery standards to ensure clean and healthy environments.
More than 400 athletes participated in the event, which featured 21.1km, 10km and 5km races under the theme: “Beitbridge My Home, My Smart City.”
The annual race, now in its 11th year, promotes civic participation and encourages a culture of cleanliness within the town and along major highways linking Beitbridge to other parts of the country.
The initiative, which was conceived by Beitbridge Town Clerk Mr Loud Ramakgapola, has grown into a major sporting and environmental awareness event, attracting professional athletes from across Zimbabwe.
“As Government, we expect local authorities to ensure efficient solid waste management through regular door-to-door waste collection, effective waste transportation systems, and the establishment and maintenance of compliant landfill facilities,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He said Beitbridge, as the busiest inland port in Sub-Saharan Africa and Zimbabwe’s gateway along the North-South Corridor, faces unique challenges associated with high population movement and intense urban activity.
“These realities present challenges, particularly in waste management and litter control,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He commended Beitbridge Municipality for spearheading initiatives such as the anti-litter marathon, which raise environmental awareness and encourage responsible waste disposal practices.
Building on the municipality’s theme: “Running Against Litter” campaign, he said the event was about more than sporting competition.
“We are not merely running for medals; we are running for environmental dignity. Every footprint left on these streets today is a declaration that we say NO to litter and YES to a clean, green and sustainable Beitbridge,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe called for a lasting change in attitudes towards environmental management, saying cleanliness should be a daily responsibility rather than a seasonal activity.
He also highlighted the role of sport in promoting positive social values and keeping young people engaged in productive activities.
“It is a statement that our youth belong on the sports field. Physical health and mental wellness are the foundations of a productive province and a thriving economy,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“In an era where non-communicable diseases continue to pose serious health risks, events such as this encourage active lifestyles and healthy living. By participating today, you are choosing health, vitality and wellbeing for yourselves, your families and your communities.”
The minister urged parents, teachers, churches, traditional leaders and law enforcement agencies to work together in protecting young people from social ills, including drug and substance abuse.
“This marathon, therefore, carries a message that goes beyond sport. It is a statement that our youth belong on the sports field, in the classroom, in business and in productive community activities—not in the grip of drugs and substance abuse.
“Sport remains one of the most powerful tools for keeping young people engaged, disciplined, focused and inspired. Through events such as this, we are creating positive alternatives and empowering our young people to make healthy choices.”
Minister Nguluvhe said events such as the anti-litter marathon also stimulate economic activity by boosting business for hotels, restaurants and transport operators.
“This powerful intersection of sport, wellness and tourism demonstrates that Beitbridge is more than a border town – it is an important economic hub with enormous potential for growth and investment,” he said.
Nguluvhe urged residents, schools, businesses, churches and civic organisations to continue supporting environmental clean-up campaigns beyond the marathon.
“Let this marathon leave behind more than memories and medals. Let it leave behind cleaner streets, healthier lifestyles, drug-free communities and a renewed sense of civic pride,” said the minister.
The event brought together elite athletes, community runners, visiting mayors and councillors from sister local authorities as Beitbridge Municipality celebrated 11 years of using sport as a platform to advance its anti-litter campaign.
