By Johannes Mike Mupisa
Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo came alive when it hosted a Drug and Substance Abuse Awareness Day, an event presided over by the Minister of State for Devolution and Provincial Affairs, Ezra Chadzamira.
The event drew hordes of schools from across the province, civil servants, and parastatals, all gathering in solidarity against the scourge of drug and substance abuse.
After an address by the Minister Chadzamira and captivating displays by students, the day took on an energetic rhythm with Provincial Wellness and Fitness Games. Civil service teams and local councils laced up to compete across various sporting disciplines—volleyball, soccer, darts, and netball.
Indeed, sport proved to be a perfect avenue in the fight against drug and substance abuse. Masvingo Rural District Council and Masvingo City Council played host to spirited teams from Mwenezi, Bikita, Chivi, and Gutu Districts.
In volleyball, Mwenezi District male team stunned the crowd with flawless teamwork, outclassing all challengers, including the mighty Masvingo Town Council, who had looked dominant at first. Bikita and Chivi also put up valiant fights but could not withstand Mwenezi’s dominance. Masvingo Town Council squared off with their female volleyball team where Mwenezi’s team comprising of Mapani, Mai Matibhiri, the Musaras, Mai Ruzvidzo and Mai Sitera failed to stop the former.
In darts, Mwenezi once again shone, led by their star player Denford Mbizvo. His team, captained by Mr. Japu and featuring Mr. Regedzai of Chingami Primary School and Mr. Rudaviro, crushed all opponents, even overcoming the formidable Masvingo Police team.
Gutu District left their mark on the netball courts, outclassing every team in clinical fashion—including Mwenezi, captained by Sr. Zemba. On the football pitch, Masvingo City Council reigned supreme, while Mwenezi managed tightly contested draws in all their matches.
There were also concerns about fair play. Mr. Mageleza, a football player and teacher at Masogwe Secondary School, and Mr. Mawarire, a teacher at Sarahuro, both remarked:
“Next time, the games need vetting. Some participants don’t look like civil servants at all. Mandumure chaiwo, ah tahwa nekumhanyisiwa.”
Still, the day was hailed as a success. Mr. Gondo L, Mwenezi District Public Service Commission boss, praised the initiative:
“This is a well spent day and it deserves continued support to ensure its success.”
His sentiments were echoed by Mr. Ruzvidzo, Mwenezi’s Arts, Sports and Recreational Officer:
“Financial constraints often stand in the way of such programmes, especially transport. But I commend Mwenezi Government High Head, Mr. Chuma, Mwenezi RDC Human Resources Head, Mr. Magayisa, and Mwenezi North Constituency MP, Honourable Makope, for stepping in to provide support and transport. Sports remain a perfect antidote in a world riddled with troubling ailments.”
The day also left players and medics in high spirits. Mr. Chiurawa, coach and player for Masvingo Town Council volleyball team, said:
“Chinhu chabuda ichi, and we hope it continues. Sports truly heal.”
Even the medical team had little work. Sr. Machingauta laughed as she admitted:
“I even forgot I had injuries to attend to. I spent the whole day taking photos.”
As the sun set on Mucheke, one truth stood tall: sport is more than play—it is unity, wellness, and a shield against destructive habits.
May this spirit of sportsmanship continue. After all, this is just a view from the mango tree—and nothing more.
