Nqobile Bhebhe in Maphisa
VICE-PRESIDENT Kembo Mohadi has challenged Zimbabwean youths to use sport as a springboard for personal development, economic empowerment and a drug-free lifestyle, saying the country’s Vision 2030 ambitions depend on a healthy, skilled and productive generation.
He said sporting initiatives must go beyond competitions and create pathways for young people to access skills training, mentorship, markets and sustainable livelihoods.
Addressing hundreds of people, mostly youths, at Maphisa Stadium during the third edition of the Dr K.C.D. Mohadi Youth Sports Expo on Saturday (today) Vice-President Mohadi said the fight against drug and substance abuse should be complemented by practical opportunities for young people to participate in the economy.
The expo, attended by Matabeleland South ZANU PF leadership and other stakeholders, was running under the theme, “Empowering Drug-Free Youths for Vision 2030”.
He said sport provided an effective platform to build discipline, confidence, teamwork and resilience while identifying talent that could be nurtured to higher levels.
“Its greatest value must be seen in the lives it helps to shape: the young person who gains confidence, the athlete whose talent receives recognition and the participant who finds encouragement to pursue a healthier and more productive future,” he said.
Vice-President Mohadi urged youths to reject drugs, resist harmful peer pressure, seek guidance when facing difficulties and encourage their peers to make responsible choices.
He said the expo should also expose young people to economic opportunities in agriculture, livestock production, tourism and mining, particularly in Matabeleland South.
He called for sustained sporting activities, inclusive participation and measurable outcomes, including identifying promising athletes and tracking opportunities created through the programme.
“Together, let us nurture a generation that is healthy, confident, productive, and ready to contribute to Zimbabwe’s development,” he said.
