Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, [email protected]
FORMER Highlanders hitman and now first team welfare manager Zenzo Moyo, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service to support the Bulawayo Inmates Football Association.
Khami Prison where the ceremony was held on Monday has a vibrant football league that keeps inmates entertained and also supports wellness both physically and mentally.
Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari was the guest of honour at the ceremony in which football equipment was donated by Moyo.
Moyo signed the document with Mkhulunyelwa Ngwenya, the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Officer Commanding representing the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service.
Moyo’s colleagues in his Zenzo Moyo Soccer Foundation (ZMSF), Sikhumbuzo Ndebele who is the secretary-general and programmes co-ordinator Brian Moyo were in attendance too.
“It gives me great pleasure to be part of this auspicious occasion as we officially launch the inmates soccer league and formalise a strategic partnership between the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Bulawayo Metropolitan
Province and the Zenzo Moyo Soccer Foundation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.
“The idea of a soccer league behind the walls was mooted last year 2025 and since then, fixtures have been fulfilled
with commitment and discipline. However we felt this noble initiative deserved a formal recognition hence our gathering today for the official launch. The MoU which we are signing today with ZMSF signifies more than a signed document, it symbolises hope, transformation and our shared commitment towards building productive and responsible citizens. To a large extent, it assures continuity of the league,” said Ngwenya.
The Prisons chief said their role has changed with prisons no longer the hard labour wards but places where inmates are rehabilitated with a view to them returning to society as transformed individuals.
“We are guided by the philosophy of inmates’ rehabilitation, which seeks to correct offending behaviour, reform attitudes and ultimately facilitate the successful reintegration of offenders into society. This phenomenon is most effective when communities and stakeholders become active partners in the process. Today’s event, therefore demonstrates that rehabilitation is a collective responsibility,” he said.
Ngwenya said sport has become a universal language that transcends barriers and creates opportunities.
“It instils discipline, teamwork, perseverance, tolerance and respect for rules. These are qualities that are essential for personal development and societal harmony. Through sports and recreation, individuals discover their talents, develop self-esteem and cultivate healthy lifestyles. More importantly, sports provide positive alternatives and reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Notwithstanding that, it is also an occupational therapy, for an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.
“Against this background, this MoU becomes very important as it provides a springboard for collaboration in talent identification, sports development, capacity building, sports innovation and mentorship programmes. We also look forward to directing our support towards vulnerable cases, including the provision of school fees assistance to deserving pupils at Khami schools, said Ngwenya. Such interventions he said complement Government efforts in promoting education and empowering communities.
“Furthermore, this initiative is in line with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2, which emphasise human capital development, social inclusion and community participation in national development. By investing in sport, we are investing in people, livelihoods and sustainable development,” said Ngwenya.
One of the inmates is playing Division One football.
“This achievement clearly demonstrates that correctional institutions are reservoirs of potential talent. It also sends a powerful message that incarceration does not define one’s future. Given an opportunity, guidance and support, individuals can transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Ngwenya.
Khami Prison has a team of inmates playing in the Bulawayo Social Soccer League.
“The team has consistently displayed discipline, determination, teamwork and sportsmanship. These values mirror the principles we endeavour to instil daily amongst those under our care. With the support and expertise of the Zenzo
Moyo Soccer Foundation, we are optimistic that Khami Rehab FC will continue to grow and eventually compete at higher and more formal levels of football,” he said.
The foundation was commended for bringing trainers, technical expertise, equipment and other resources to equip inmates with soccer and netball skills.
To the inmates he said talent is a gift, but discipline, hard work and good character are what sustain success.
He added: “Use sports not only to improve your physical well-being, but also as a platform to develop values that will help you become responsible and productive citizens when you return to your communities.”
The sport initiative that has seen Officer Commanding Ngwenya spearhead some taking part in golf, is under the theme “Second Chances One Goal.”
Through sport, the foundation wants to see some inmates leave the correctional centres as qualified coaches, referees, match analysts and those still young and talented to try professional football on release.
Mwaruwari was pleased with Moyo’s initiative.
“This is very good to see a soccer legend plough back into society the way Moyo has done. More often our brothers and sisters at correctional centres are forgotten yet they need this kind of support. Hats off to Z and foundation colleagues,” said Mwaruwari.
