Staff Reporter
Member of Parliament (MP) for Mwenezi West, Priscilla Zindari-Moyo, has called for greater investment in young people, saying they are the key to Zimbabwe’s future.
Speaking at Maranda High School during a sports tournament attended by over 1 200 supporters over the weekend, MP Zindari-Moyo said sports can help build stronger, healthier communities by keeping young people active and focused.
“Today is not just about celebrating our election victory; it is about empowering our youth and preparing them for a better future," she said.
The event, held as part of Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence celebrations, featured soccer, netball, and volleyball matches between teams from Wards 8, 9, and 10.
Winners received full jersey kits, a ball, and USD 100, while second-place teams received a ball and USD 50.
Honourable Zindari-Moyo said sports offer young people important life lessons, including teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
"Through organised sports, we are investing in the talents of our youth and showing them, they have value and a future," she said.
She explained that the tournament was part of efforts to fight drug and substance abuse among young people by giving them positive activities to focus on.
Hon. Zindari-Moyo also urged the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture to develop rural sports infrastructure and help young athletes reach national levels.
"We must create real opportunities for our young people to succeed and achieve their dreams," she said.
Chief Maranda, who attended the celebrations, praised the initiative, saying it showed true leadership.
"Our young people are the future of Mwenezi. What we saw today gives us hope that with the right support, they can achieve great things. We must all stand behind programmes like these that guide and empower our youth," he said.
Councillor Thlaisi also applauded the event, saying sports were essential in building a strong and united community.
"We must keep giving our young people platforms like this to grow their talents and stay away from dangerous habits," he said.
The initiative supports the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which encourages Youth Empowerment, Social Inclusion, and Human Capital Development.
