Burzil Dube
Leonard Ncube in Hwange
THE government is impressed with and believes the just ended Youth Education through Sport (Yes) Games lived up to expectations.
The Yes Games faced minimal challenges, such as lack of time consciousness by organisers that saw athletes being fed late, while an accident that killed three Ministry of Sport and Recreation officials in Norton last week also subdued the annual event.
The officials were on their way to Hwange for the games.
A moment of silence was observed in their honour at the opening and closing ceremonies held at the Colliery Stadium.
Ministry of Sport and Recreation permanent secretary Godfrey Chipare, who was the guest of honour, heaped praise on the local organising committee (Loc) headed by Burzil Dube.
“We are impressed by the organising team’s acumen and we believe this builds our confidence going forward,” said Chipare.
He said the Loc defied all odds and they learnt a number of lessons that would be implemented at the National Youth Games to be staged in Matabeleland North in August 2017.
“The economy isn’t performing well, but it’s quite encouraging to see such level of organisation which shows a bright future. Yes games are about building a wholesome youth morally, economically and culturally by catching them young through sport. Like in any other project, lessons are learnt and we are now knowledgeable that timeous planning and better communication both horizontally and vertically are crucial,” he said.
Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) acting director Daniel Kuwengwa said: “The event was well attended and besides we didn’t expect this kind of organisation because of the economic situation prevailing in the country. Of course there are economic challenges and things are very tough, but they (LOC) still did their best under these circumstances,” he said.
A total of 830 athletes and officials were officially registered for the games, with each paying $20 as affiliation fees, while extra people brought by the provinces each paid $50.
“We are so grateful to the Loc for securing facilities from Hwange Colliery Company because we would have needed in excess of $20 000 for these. Their partnership with the National Aids Council changed the complexion of the games, as they were able to conduct road shows and provide edutainment, which was unique,” Kuwengwa said.
This year’s Yes Games were held under the theme “Unethical practices, a barrier to youth development through sport”.
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