Online Reporter
Nyasha Simbisai
Agriculture Correspondent
The Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development has hailed the just-ended Intra-Ministerial Sports Gala as a resounding success, describing it as a key platform for promoting staff wellness, inclusivity and awareness against drug abuse.
The week-long sporting event held at Mushagashe Training Centre in Masvingo featured multiple disciplines including volleyball, netball, soccer, darts, pool, athletics, tug of war and chess with all provinces fully represented.
Addressing participants at the event, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Professor Obert Jiri said the tournament brought together more than 200 athletes from across the country, fostering unity, teamwork and discipline within the ministry.
“The success of this sports tournament is critical for the health, inclusivity and wellness of our staff, as well as conscientisation against drug abuse.
“We have seen the whole country coming together, with athletes from every province delivering a strong display of unity, teamwork and inclusivity,” he said.
Prof Jiri commended the participation of staff living with disabilities, saying the gala had provided an important platform to advance inclusivity and equal opportunity.
“This is a significant step in ensuring that no one is left behind. It also strengthens our inclusivity and wellness programmes,” he said.
He added that the tournament highlighted the depth of talent within the ministry and a strong spirit of sportsmanship among participants.
“As a ministry, we are encouraged by the success of this initiative. It demonstrates the talent within our ranks and the need to support and professionalise it further,” he said.
Prof Jiri noted that the event had also exposed areas requiring improvement.
“We have identified gaps, particularly on the professional and organisational side, which we are committed to addressing going forward,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders to enhance future editions of the tournament.
“We will engage the private sector and other stakeholders to ensure that this tournament continues to grow bigger and better,” he said.
Prof Jiri said lessons from the Mushagashe gala would inform preparations for the upcoming Inter-Ministerial Games later this year.
“This event has laid a solid foundation. Our focus now is to build on this momentum and ensure stronger participation and performance at the inter-ministerial level,” he said.
The Mushagashe Intra-Ministerial Sports Gala is fast becoming a key fixture on the ministry’s calendar, serving as both a recreational and strategic platform to boost staff morale, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen institutional cohesion.
