Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
SPORTS and physical training remain critical to maintaining a versatile and combat-ready Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), a senior military official has said.
ZNA Director Civil Military Relations Colonel Fungayi Mapaya said sporting activities were central to the physical health and overall well-being of soldiers, making them an important component of military preparedness.
He was speaking at a tennis kit handover ceremony at Army Headquarters Officers’ Mess yesterday, ahead of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Tennis Tournament.
“Physical training and sport are central to the health and well-being of soldiers,” Col Mapaya said.
He said sport was not merely recreational, but played an important role in keeping military personnel physically fit and prepared for the demands of their duties.
“Sports remain a vital pillar in maintaining a versatile and combat-fit force,” he said.
Col Mapaya said sporting activities also helped develop qualities that were important within the military, including discipline, teamwork and cohesion.
“Sporting activities are central to the health and well-being of soldiers,” he said.
The remarks come as the ZNA’s White Rhinos Tennis Club prepares to host the 10-team Zimbabwe Defence Forces Tennis Tournament at the Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks Tennis Courts from today to Sunday.
The tournament marks the first time the White Rhinos Tennis Club will host the defence forces competition.
Col Mapaya said the tournament would provide personnel with an opportunity to compete while maintaining their physical fitness.
“Sports play an important role in keeping our personnel physically fit and healthy,” he said.
He said maintaining an active sporting culture within the military complemented formal physical training and contributed to the overall welfare of soldiers.
The three-day tournament will bring together 10 teams from across the defence forces, with players competing for honours while strengthening relationships through sporting competition.
The event also received a boost from local company Arlo FEMI (Pvt) Ltd, which donated sporting kit to the White Rhinos Tennis Club ahead of the tournament.
The donation comprised tracksuits, caps, T-shirts and souvenirs.
Col Mapaya welcomed the support, saying partnerships with the private sector could contribute to the development of sport within the military.
“The ZNA greatly appreciates your support towards the development of sports and the tennis discipline in particular,” he said.
“We are happy to be associated with Arlo FEMI as we both place emphasis on the application of ethical business practices,” Col Mapaya said.
He challenged the White Rhinos to make the most of the support and deliver a strong performance during the tournament.
“We challenge the White Rhinos team to deliver a stellar performance during the tournament to honour the donation and proudly carry the Arlo FEMI brand to victory,” he said.
Arlo FEMI director Mr Geoffrey Chihuri said his company was committed to supporting the club and pledged continued assistance.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to support the White Rhinos Tennis Club and I pledge my ongoing support,” he said.
Mr Chihuri also declared himself an honorary member of the ZNA White Rhinos Tennis Club.
The tournament is expected to conclude on Sunday, with participating teams competing for honours while promoting physical fitness and sporting excellence within the defence forces.
For the ZNA, the competition reinforces the role of sport beyond recreation, with physical activity contributing to the health, discipline and readiness of personnel.
