By Rex Mphisa
MATABELELAND South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe has said he doe need anyone who sells drugs to vote for him.
“If you are selling drugs I dont want your vote. You sell drugs and kill other people’s children. Our province population is small because people have no time to make babies, you will be to high to do anything,” he said.
“I have advised police that as long as I am the minister in Matabeleland South all those from Ward Four who sell drugs you will be arrestes. I have engaged the police,” he said.
He was speaking at the Ziyah Media Schools Soccer Tournament at Dulivhadzimu on Sunday where he was guest of honour.
Nguluvhe said he was honoured to be guest of honour at a function that safeguarded youths from drugs.
He said sports were a major weapon against drugs and substance abuse.
“Your dedication ensures that our youth have safe and positive environments to play, grow, and thrive far away from the ddug and substance abuse we are fighting with all we have. Sport is a major weapon in this!”
Nguluvhe thanked parents their unwavering support and for encouraging children participate sports saying charity begins at home.
Coming to the event he said it was also important to be celebrating the vibrant spirit of grassroots sports in our community.
“Grassroots sports are the very foundation of our nation’s sporting future. Talent is everywhere, in every town and village, waiting to be discovered,” he said.
“But it’s more than just finding the next champion. Sport is a powerful catalyst for social change and human development. It teaches discipline, teamwork, respect, integrity, and resilience. It builds character and unites people from all walks of life,” he said.
Nguluvhe said Ziyah Media had through the tourname t involving 10 schools set he bar high.
“I will hasten to mention that our host, Ziyah Media, ably led by Loadwell Ziyadumah, has set the bar high.”
“Investing in oneself is a step, but investing for others as we see here today is a giant step for humanity.
“Lets clap hands hands for this young man from Beitbridge East, my constituency! You have made us proud indeed.”
He said localisation of the games to give rural based talent a chance to be seen in big stages was noble.
“I understand this year you localised these games to give a chance to local people of Beitbridge fulfilling the mantra by his Excellency the President ED Mnangagwa that leaving no place behind,” he said.
“You have by this development extended a hand to scouts to see raw talent brewed in Beitbridge, from Shashi to Chikwarakwara!”
He thanked Ziyah media for partnerships wth government departments in hosting the tournament.
“Such organisaions can only be rooted in success, what more can I say?”
He said government recognises the immense value of grassroots sports for both physical and mental health hence the mantra no place should be left behind.
He asked local authorities to provide areas where sports could be held and said he wa working with several stakeholders to increase support for basic equipment, facilities, and materials for hosting next year’s National Independence celebrations.
“I envision it will be in a stadium at Maphisa, which does not have one at the moment,” Nguluvhe said.
“We urge all Municipalities and local authorities to facilitate the establishment of sports facilities to engage our youth.”
He asked the young athletes to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship by fair play, respect of opponents and officials, and most importantly, enjoying every moment.
“The skills you learn on the field today will serve you well in all aspects of your life, helping you strive for excellence not just in sports, but in your academics and future careers.”
He thanked Ziyah Media for bdinging Peter Ndlovu, a decorated yesteryear footballe, the most famous athlete in Zimbabwe and perhaps Africa having been the first African to play in the English PremierLeague.
“Ndlovu was the first Africa player to play in the English Premier League, and today he is her to encourage the Youth of Beitbridge today.”
He encouraged young players to emulate Ndlovu.
“Finally I want to urge you that we must continue to work together – government, communities, and families – to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate in sports and unlock their full potential.”
Chibi High School won the tournament for the third year running when it beat a more tactical Tongwe High School on penalties.
It was Tongwe’s keeper, the winner of the golden glove, who missed from the spot at shootout losing 4 – 5 on penalties.