Tinaani Nyabereka
Gweru- Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Officer Commanding Midlands sports gala has been described as a vital instrument of social control as it dovetail with the institution’s religious motto of discipline to members of the security.
In his official opening remarks, Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Commissioner Nelson Chikwature said without the support from the corporate world, they were not going to reach the level of success they got to.
“It is my singular honour to welcome you to our annual sports festival of the Sports Tournament as ZPCS Midlands province. Let me hasten to register my deep sincere appreciation to our commander Commissioner General, Moses C.N Chihobvu for according us time off our busy schedules so that we could adequately prepare for this event, notwithstanding the invaluable logistical support which enabled us to travel for the event.
“Indeed from a security point of view, sport is vital instrument of social control and this dovetail with our religious motto of discipline as members of security services. Today we gathered here to witness 43 teams drawn from our respective stations within our province partake in sport. The teams competed in various disciplines which include Athletics, Soccer, Netball, Volleyball, Darts, Chess, Pool and Tug of War among others.
“Indeed their unwavering support in cash and kind illuminated and propelled this event as we managed to present quality medals and certificates courtesy of the generous support from these corporate partners. As Zimbabwe Prisons Correctional Service Midlands Province we are forever grateful to charming support we received from Global Sports, Active Sports, Moonlight Funeral Assurance, George Mitchell, Greynut Investment, Chicken Inn from Simbisa Brands and our good neighbour Mr Mutangayi,” he said.
He added that there was need for sound contracts to build mutual benefits with the corporate world to strengthen all developmental initiatives.
“It is common cause that we are slowly becoming a force to reckon with particularly in infrastructure development an area which might be of interest to the corporate world.
“Thus our infrastructure development and business management division is ever ready to enter into contracts with corporates and individuals in construction of residents and office accommodation among other projects. We hope that our relationship will continue to blossom even to the extent of impacting on the livelihoods of our inmates and officers,” he added.
Speaking on the side lines of the tournament at Whawha grounds last week, ZPCS Provincial Public Relations official, Correctional Officer Grade 3 Nevison Tagarira said, the Officer Commanding Midlands sports tournament was the final event after the Officer in Charge sport tournament which was held some few months ago.
“The Officer Commanding tournament is the final tournament we are having this year after the Officer in Charge tournament which was held some few months back. So all the participants here are battling it out for top honours.
“It is from these participants that we will then select our provincial team which will represent the province at the Commissioner General Sports Tournament which will be held at Ntabazinduna on dates to be advised. The purpose of having such activities is for us to interact as officers and embark on body building exercises to keep fit and healthy,” he said.
A total of 43 teams were drawn to compete in all disciplines under three zones .These are zone A comprising of Midlands Provincial Headquarters, Zvishavane Prison , Shurugwi Prison and Mberengwa Prison. Zone B comprised of Whawha Complex that is Whawha Medium Prison, Workshop and Whawha Young Offenders and lastly zone C which was made up of Conemara Open Prison, Kwekwe Prison and Gokwe Prison.
The Sports gala however saw Zone A scooping the trophy, US$ 250 prize money and gold medals after it was ranked as the outstanding team in all disciplines, followed by Zone B in second position who walked away US$ 200 richer and medals while Zone C which scooped the monetary prize of US$ 150 and bronze medals came out last.
The tournament also awarded individual officers for best performances with gold medals and certificates.
