By Tinaani Nyabereka
Gweru Mayor, Councilor Martin Chivhoko has urged youths to value and uphold sports as it brings people together despite political or religious standing or belonging as the Sport4peace tournament brought unity to Gweru political players.
Chivhoko said this during the official opening of the Sport4peace tournament, which was held in Mkoba last week to unite youth in various political parties including Zanu PF, MDC and CCC, where he applauded the youths for agreeing to participate in the tournament.
“This gathering is a celebration of unity camaraderie and the transformative power of sports in fostering peace and understanding within our communities. As the Mayor of our city, I am deeply honored to witness the energy and passion that our youth bring to this event, your presence here today is a testament to your commitment to building a better future, one filled with harmony, respect and solidarity.
“As we gather to celebrate the spirit of youth sports, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing its potential as a force for positive change. Through sports, our youth learn invaluable lessons in leadership, discipline and resilience qualities that are essential for navigating life’s challenges and contributing meaningfully to society,” said Chivhoko.
Chivhoko said sports were also important as they can be used to create relationships among people from various backgrounds.
“Beyond the physical prowess and competitive spirit, youth sports also serve as a platform for promoting peace and social cohesion. It is here, on the playing field that friendships are forged, differences are set aside and common goals are pursued together. In a world often marked by division and discord, the bonds formed through sports are a powerful antidote to hatred and prejudice.
“As we celebrate the achievements of our young athletes today, let us also remember the importance of nurturing a culture of peace and understanding in our communities. Let us commit ourselves to creating inclusive spaces where all youths, regardless of background or ability, feel welcomed and valued. Let us champion diversity, equality and inclusion both on and off the field,” he said.
Chivhoko thanked the organizers and sponsors who made the Youth Sports for Peace Gala possible and urged everyone to continue harnessing the power of sports in building a more peaceful and prosperous world for generations to come.
One of the events planners, Ebenezzar Women Trust Organization, Florence Guzha said she was grateful that the tournament had proved to be a success.
“The program went so well, that youths from various parties including Zanu PF, CCC participated and this reflected the unity of purpose among young people.
“The political situation of our country is greatly changing and this just shows that as a people despite our political standing we can join hands and be one in building the nation. If you recall last year, we gathered to remove posters in the street and we did this initiative together with the late Director of Nkabazwe Community Radio,” she added.
Three teams with mixed youths from Zanu PF, MDC and CCC participated in the tournament with team A winning in all the games after securing 6 points followed by Team C which had 4 points and lastly Team B with 2 points.
All the teams were awarded the peace trophies each and medals for participating
