Story by Anashe Murombedzi
THE inaugural Zimbabwe National Sports Promotion for Economic Development (ZimSports4ED) kicks off later this month, bringing together teams from across the country in a multi-sport tournament.
The tournament, scheduled for September 20 in Harare, will showcase young athletes’ talents while commemorating Munhumutapa Day, which coincides with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s birthday and draws inspiration from the historical Munhumutapa Empire.
“Munhumutapa Day is not just a celebration of our President’s birthday, but also a tribute to our rich cultural heritage. Through sports, we can promote national unity, economic development, and youth empowerment,” ZANU PF Harare Youth League Provincial Political Commissar, Cde Voyage Dambuza said.
Sports legends, including former Dynamos coach Lloyd Chigove, former Commonwealth flyweight champion Alfonso “Mosquito” Zvenyika, Zimbabwe’s first female professional boxer and Zimbabwe Karate Union president, Tawanda Mufundisi, will mentor and guide young participants.
“Giving young athletes like me a chance to participate in tournaments like ZimSports4ED is crucial for our development. It exposes us to top-level competition and helps us build our skills and confidence,” an athlete said.
“Sports have been a game-changer for women in Zimbabwe. It has given us a platform to showcase our talents, build our confidence, and challenge stereotypes. I am excited to be part of ZimSports4ED and inspire other young women to take up sports,” a participant said.
“The future of Zimbabwean football lies in nurturing talent from the grassroots level. ZimSports4ED provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and potentially get discovered
by top clubs,” a community member said.
“Sports have a unique ability to bring people together, regardless of their background or culture, and this is an excellent opportunity for young athletes to learn, grow, and build relationships that will last a lifetime,” a seasoned athlete said.
The ZimSports4ED tournament aims to promote sports development, end drug and substance abuse, and nurture talent.
