The 2025 edition of the Kwekwe Mayor’s Challenge Cup has been postponed to Friday, 3 October, the organising committee has confirmed.
The tournament, which was initially scheduled for September 26, was moved after organisers were notified that Mbizo Stadium, the main venue, would be hosting a major religious gathering on that day.
Kwekwe Mayor Albert Zinhanga said the adjustment was made to accommodate all stakeholders while ensuring the smooth running of the event.
“We’ve engaged with all relevant parties and agreed to shift the date to October 3. The Challenge Cup remains an important event for youth development, and we want to give it the focus it deserves,” he said.
This year’s edition is expected to draw wide participation, with more than 90 teams already registered across various age groups in soccer, netball, volleyball, basketball and handball, catering for both boys and girls.
Defending champions Mbizo High School, who won the inaugural Under-18 boys’ football title in 2024, are set to return and face stiff competition from Amaveni High, Kenville High, Globe and Phoenix High, and Amaveni Football Academy. Excitement is also building in handball, basketball and open-age soccer categories.
Mayor Zinhanga reiterated that the tournament’s core objective is to fight drug and substance abuse among young people.
“We are deliberately including both in-school and out-of-school youths in this tournament to engage them positively. Sport keeps them active, focused and united,” he said.
Organisers urged participants and supporters to note the new date and prepare for what is expected to be a bigger and more inclusive sporting event.
