FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-The newly commissioned Mucheke Multipurpose Courts are expected to become more than just a sporting facility with authorities positioning the modern complex as a potential revenue-generating asset while strengthening youth development and the fight against drug and substance abuse.
The state-of-the-art facility, officially opened by Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Lieutenant General (Retired) Anselem Sanyatwe yesterday, is expected to create opportunities for income generation through sporting events, facility hire, tournaments, training programmes and sports tourism while providing a safe environment for young people to engage in sport.
Constructed at a cost of ZWG 1,992,028.66, the complex consists of six multipurpose courts catering for basketball, netball, volleyball and tennis.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Minister Sanyatwe said the investment would deliver both economic and social benefits.
“Investment in sport is not merely expenditure but a strategic investment in human capital development, public health, social cohesion, youth empowerment and sustainable economic growth,” said Sanyatwe.
He said local authorities should view sporting infrastructure as an investment capable of stimulating local economies.
“Globally, sport has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry that significantly contributes to national economies through tourism, infrastructure development, employment creation, innovation and investment. Zimbabwe must position itself to benefit from this growing global industry,” he said.
Sanyatwe urged the City of Masvingo to maximise the facility’s potential by hosting competitions, leagues, coaching clinics and other sporting events that attract athletes and visitors while generating revenue.
“These courts should be managed as sustainable economic assets capable of generating revenue through competitions, leagues, training camps, facility hire, sponsorships and sports tourism,” he said.
He said the facility will help in empowering young people and addressing the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse.
“These courts will provide young people with positive recreational opportunities, help identify and nurture sporting talent and contribute to the fight against drug and substance abuse by keeping our youths actively involved in productive activities,” said Sanyatwe.
He challenged schools, sporting associations and communities to make full use of the facility.
“These courts should remain active throughout the year through structured competitions, leagues, coaching clinics, school programmes and community recreation initiatives,” he said.
The facility has already demonstrated its capacity to host major events after accommodating the National Disability Expo and is set to host the 2026 Inter-Municipal Games in August.
Sanyatwe also urged stakeholders to ensure the courts remain accessible to women, youths, schools and persons with disabilities while calling on Masvingo Province to use the facility to prepare athletes for the 2026 Zimbabwe National Youth and Paralympic games to be held in Marondera, Mashonaland East Province.
The commissioning of the Mucheke Multipurpose Courts marks a significant milestone in Masvingo City’s efforts to develop sporting infrastructure that drives economic growth, promotes youth development, nurtures talent and strengthens the fight against drug and substance abuse.
