Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
EIGHTEEN teams from Bikita District in Masvingo Province took part in the 10th edition of the Chief Marozva Sports Tournament over the weekend, with youths being encouraged to embrace healthy lifestyles and shun drugs and substance abuse.
The Bikita community came together through sport as teams competed for honours at the event, which was sponsored by Bikita Minerals.
The tournament also served as a platform for young people to interact, while raising awareness about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
“As a community, this tournament is very important for us as young women and youths. We come together, play, share experiences, and through these tournaments we have even managed to start small projects that are now sustaining us,” said a community member.
“We prepare for this tournament for a very long time, so we are occupied and have no time for drugs. The competition also comes with monetary rewards, which we use to start small projects that support our families,” noted another community member.
Running for a decade, the event continues to promote unity, cultural values, and responsible behaviour among young people.
“I place great importance on this sports tournament because it brings us together as a community. It teaches the value of healthy lifestyles and allows me to speak to our youths about upholding our traditions while denouncing drug and substance abuse,” said Chief Marozva.
The tournament also provides an opportunity for Bikita Minerals to strengthen relations with the community.
“As a company, we are proud to be associated with this event. We have sponsored it for the past 10 years because it is important to us. We operate in Bikita, and this forms part of our corporate social responsibility, as well as a chance to interact with the community,” explained Bikita Minerals Company mine manager, Mr Experience Kagodi.
All participating teams received prizes, with Chivanga Football Club lifting the football trophy, while Bikita Rulers were named the best netball team.
