Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango recently in Hwedza
THE eighth edition of the Tinmac Tournament has received more than US$100 000 in sponsorship, with the grassroots competition bringing together athletes across eight sporting disciplines in Wedza.
The annual tournament features football, netball, volleyball, athletics, cycling, darts, pool and tug-of-war.
Established to identify and nurture sporting talent, the competition also uses sport to steer young people away from drug and substance abuse.
Tinmac Foundation founder and Hwedza South legislator Tinoda Machakaire said the tournament was providing young people with a platform to compete and develop through sport.
“Our goal with the Tinmac Tournament is to send a clear message that our youth have a far greater purpose than falling victim to drugs and substance abuse,” said Machakaire.
“Sport gives young people focus, health and a sense of community.”
The tournament, which draws participants from across Wedza, has now been running for eight years.
Skills Audit and Development Minister Jenfan Muswere, who was guest of honour at the launch, also announced plans to establish a vocational training centre in Hwedza.
He said the facility would give young people an opportunity to acquire practical skills beyond the sporting field.
“Sport creates discipline, but practical skills build futures,” said Muswere.
“We are establishing a modern vocational training centre here in Hwedza to ensure our young people transition from the sports field into sustainable technical livelihoods.”
Government Chief Whip Pupurai Togarepi also encouraged young people to take advantage of funding available through EmpowerBank to pursue business projects.
He said beneficiaries should repay the loans to allow others to access the fund.
Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Itayi Ndudzo said community sporting programmes could also play a role in keeping young people away from drug and substance abuse
