Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
MANICALAND and Harare dominated proceedings at this year’s National Association of Primary Heads (NAPH) games, with the two provinces sharing spoils on the medals table as the contest ended this Thursday.
Manicaland and Harare provinces amassed a total 38 medals a piece.
In second place was Mashonaland West which harvested a total of 37 medals with 12 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze, while Midlands came third with a total of 36 medals.
Masvingo will, however, be the most disappointed province after failing to get a single medal.
It was a moment of reflection as the NAPH basked in the glory of a successful sporting festival held at the Hwange Colliery Stadium.
“The organisation at this year’s edition was top-notch. There was order and stakeholders worked together in harmony,” NAPH National vice president, George Nkonde said.
“As the host province, we are extremely happy. We worked well and even got support from our local Colliery Company,” Host Province Chairperson, Nkosinathi Moyo said.
It was also another historic moment when Chess made its debut in the games for the first time.
“We had been lobbying to have Chess included at NAPH. We are happy it was included. This gives a chance for our competitors to also be included in the squad which will take part in international competitions,” Zimbabwe Chess Federation Treasurer General, Mercy Mushangwe said.
The selected winning athletes will be part of Zimbabwe’s contingent to the Confederation of Southern Africa Sports Association (COSSASA) games set for Eswatini next month.
The games ended on a somber note after the Harare Provincial Chairperson of NAPH, Isaac Zheve, collapsed and passed away upon arrival at a local hospital. His sudden death cast a shadow over the successful sporting event, with the entire NAPH community left in mourning.
