SPORTS REPORTER
ZVISHAVANE-Jephitar Mambo Foundation is set to host an anti drug abuse Soccer tournament targeting youths in the small mining town of Zvishavane this weekend.
The foundation’s co-founder and chairperson Jephitar Mambo in an interview with The Midweek watch said the tournament is part of the foundation’s mission for youths to showcase their soccer skills while fighting drugs and substance abuse.
He added that the tournament will be a platform for youths to interact and share ideas on how best they can fight drug and substance abuse in the mining town.
The aim of the organization is to empower youths with resources they need to unleash their talents.
The foundation also has a football academy situated in Nil Township which will participate in the tournament.
The tournament will see under 14 and 12 teams battling for honours.
Participating teams are expected to pay US$40 as affiliation fee and the money will be channeled towards prizes that will be won after the tournament.
The winning team will receive a full soccer kit while the runners up will get soccer balls.
The tournament is also open to teams outside Zvishavane Town.
Mambo said the tournament will be a good opportunity in helping curb the consumption of dangerous drugs.
“The objective of this tournament is to reduce the use of drugs and substance abuse which is grappling the nation.
“We are trying to raise awareness on situations that trigger drugs and substance abuse among young people and help families come up with alternative ways to address issues of mental health that affect young people,” he said.
The tournament will include drug education while strengthening ties between communities and law enforcement agents.
“We are hoping to reduce the supply and demand of drugs and substances in this community at the same time scouting for talent for competitive football,” he said.
Research has indicated that when people are engaged in sport and recreation activities they will have high levels of self-esteem and confidence.
The Government at one time embarked on a festival under the theme “Curbing drugs and substance abuse through fitness and wellness #mentalhealthmatters’’.
