Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Speaker of Parliament, Hon Jacob Francis Mudenda, is nudging rural sport back into the spotlight with a netball and football gala he will sponsor this weekend in Dete, a former rail siding in Matabeleland North.
The event has already stirred excitement across the communities of Dete, Hwange and Binga, and organisers say the plan is to turn it into a permanent fixture on the sporting calendar.
Hon Mudenda, who once taught at Marist Brothers College not far from Dete, is backing an initiative that local administrators believe will revive competition in areas often left behind.
For Zifa Area Zones Southern Region boss, Ndodana Masuku, the gesture speaks to a long-standing push to grow structured sport outside urban centres.
“We are excited about being involved in organising this event. It is a shot in the right direction as we try to see competitive sport grow in previously marginalised areas.
‘We have always said there is so much talent in rural places, and we are proud to present some of our teams with very good talent.
“We are happy that in the last two years we have produced a player who has even played for the national team from Dete,” said Masuku.
Dete has a rich, if often overlooked, sporting history. Players like Enock Moyo came through its Area Zones system, the same platform that once featured Simba Bhora match analyst, Ashley Ndebele.
Masuku said the presence of a senior Government official backing grassroots competition shows that sport is gradually being recognised as part of the wider national development agenda.
“We are grateful because Ubaba uMudenda has shown that the Government wants sport to grow and spread.
“It is a big employer, provides towards wellness and recreational entertainment for our communities.
“For us to host the JFN Mudenda Sports Tournament is a big honour and also an endorsement of the work this community has done in Area Zones football,” said Masuku, who also heads the Rhino Cup Champions League, an anti-poaching and conservation initiative operating near Hwange National Park.
This year’s football bracket, branded the Super8 Challenge, will feature Bushbucks, Eagles, Empumalanga, Makwika United, Saba, Sables, Shumba Stars and Sikalenge.
In netball, Mighty Delta Ladies, Mabale Ladies, Shumba Stars, Sables, Jumbos and Zebras are set to compete.
Masuku said preparations are complete and the stage is ready for a lively weekend.
“It is all systems go on Saturday and Sunday and we expect good sportsmanship and quality performances.
“With the Zifa seasons over, we are looking forward to talent scouts and player agents coming out to identify good players for netball and soccer teams,” he said.
Dete was once known for its love of the game and produced players such as former Highlanders and Warriors rightback, Noel Kaseke.
Locals hope this revival will open the path for the next generation.
Londile Moyo