adminSenior Sports Reporter
SENATORS have called on the government to enact enabling legislation to promote sport development in the country. The senators highlighted four pillars they felt are important in sport development in Zimbabwe and challenged the government to enact appropriate laws to capacitate the Sports Council of Zimbabwe; identify qualified coaches that will work with talented players in both rural and urban areas; establish sports centres in all provinces and eradicate corruption in sport.
Contributing to the debate on Tuesday, Mike Musaka said sport had produced a new elite where the money is.
“Some footballers in the world fly jets. They’ve done so well and are successful. So Zimbabwe should go in this direction by creating employment for the youngsters.
“Like in education, as has been said here that we have produced outstanding graduates who can be employed anywhere in the world; let’s also create footballers,” said Musaka.
“Let Zimbabwe be the hunting ground for Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, La Liga and other teams.
“Let’s really promote it to the point where we’re actually exporting and that it (sport) becomes an export market for Zimbabwe.”
He said to achieve this goal, the government should take the lead by creating an enabling environment and sponsoring and allowing investors to come in.
“We should seriously think of enticing celebrities like Serena Williams, Michael Jordan, to name just a few, to visit.
“They get money both in terms of playing and advertising rights. They’ve millions. I’m appealing to fellow legislators that we work together to bring these celebrities and maybe get rid of the stigma.
“I know there’s a political side of it, which may be a bit difficult, but I think it’s a brilliant idea,” said Musaka.
Londile Moyo
Online Reporter