Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube
COMMUNITIES in Lupane and Matabeleland North at large have been encouraged to fully utilise sporting facilities at their disposal to identify and nurture talent as well as turn the province into a powerhouse.
Speaking at the commissioning of Mabhikwa Multipurpose Sports Facility at Mabhikwa High School in Lupane recently, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Nicholas Moyo said Government was committed to using sport to change lives.
He said the Ministry of Sport took it upon itself to contribute to people’s lives by building standardised facilities in Mabhikwa, Gutu’s Rafemoyo Area, Herbert Chitepo, Mkoba Teachers’ College and a soccer facility in Murambinda.
The Mabhikwa arena will house netball, tennis and volleyball courts.
It was funded by the Lotteries and Gaming Board (LGB) through a partnership with the Ministry of Sport and becomes the first and only community sporting facility in Matabeleland North.
The construction of the facility is timely as Government intensifies development of public infrastructure and services in Lupane, the provincial capital of Matabeleland North.
“Today’s event shows Government’s commitment to uplifting people’s lives leaving no one and no place behind. We celebrate that this is not just a ‘talkshow’ but the President walks his talk. As a Ministry, we will continue collaborating with other departments and national sports associations for development of standard facilities.
“Government has done its part, it is up to the community now to jealously guard the facility and use it for sports development. We want to see a strong netball team coming from Lupane and national teams getting players from Lupane and Matabeleland North because you have facilities now. This should turn this school into a centre for sporting excellence and have learners enrolling specifically for sports and making the province a powerhouse,” said Moyo.
He said there is room for locals from the province to make it to the Olympic teams.
LGB chief executive, Dr Misheck Chingozha, who was represented by Bonwell Madhoke re-affirmed LGB’s commitment to supporting initiatives that foster community development and enhance the lives of citizens.
He said the project is a product of partnerships, aligning with a commitment in enhancing the quality of life across Zimbabwe.
“The Mabhikwa Multipurpose Sports Facility is designed to serve as a venue for various sporting activities. The facility funded by Lotteries and Gaming Board represents not only a physical structure but also a significant investment in the future of our youth and the well-being of our communities.
“This will improve sporting participation and promote sport development in our communities. It will provide our young people with the opportunity to engage in sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork, discipline and healthy competition. I encourage schools, sports clubs and local organisations to make full use of the facility to nurture dreams, discover talent and a place where future champions are born,” he said, adding that sport plays a critical role in the holistic development of individuals.
Sport can also promote physical fitness and instill values that go far beyond the playing field.
Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo who was represented by Lupane District Development Co-ordinator Ennerty Sithole said the multi-purpose court represents a significant investment in the community’s future, embodying Government’s steadfast commitment to promoting sports development, healthy lifestyles and community engagement.
Chairperson of the Matabeleland North Tennis Board Warren Ncube said they will assist with coaching and other areas at the facility.
“What makes us grateful is the fact that this is the first community sport facility in Matabeleland North. Yes, in Hwange, we have tennis courts at the Hwange Colliery and Coalfields School but they are not for the community. In Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Primary School and Elephant Hills have tennis courts but they are not for the community.
“The challenge we give each other is to maintain this facility in a good state. We want sports-persons to come from this place. We also appeal to parents to support children who show interest in sports as it is now a business,” he said.
Eukelia Ncube, a netball sports volunteer for Lupane District said the development was a dream come true.
Mabhikwa High School head Mkhokheli Nkomo, was a happy man with the development.
Acting Chief Mabhikwa said his community was grateful for the development, which will help produce sports-persons and sustain livelihoods.
Online Reporter