The Midlands Handball Board (MHB) on Tuesday, 2 December, officially launched its inaugural Inter-District Handball Tournament in Gweru, with the landmark event set to kick off on Saturday, 6 December at Chaplin High School.
The competition will feature more than 500 athletes and 92 officials from districts across the province, including Gweru, Kwekwe, Gokwe North and South, Chirumhanzu, Mberengwa and Shurugwi.
MHB Secretary-General Leslie Mberikunashe said the tournament is designed to go beyond sport.
“These games are meant to promote handball in the province and serve as a tool to fight drug and substance abuse among youths. Under-14 and Under-18 boys’ and girls’ teams from across the province will battle for top honours during this two-day tournament,” he said.
MHB Chief Executive Officer Farai Gwisai described the competition as a first of its kind in the region.
“We are using this gathering as a vehicle to bring youths together, educate them on the dangers of drug abuse and at the same time grow the game of handball in the Midlands.
Winning teams will earn an opportunity to represent Zimbabwe in Sweden. The semi-finals and finals are scheduled for Sunday, 7 December and the event will be graced by the Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube,” he said.
ZimSports4ED Midlands Chairperson Walter Gozho highlighted the wider social and economic value of the initiative.
“It’s more than just a competition. It’s about raising awareness, nurturing young talent, and fostering economic growth through sport. We aim to identify and cultivate disciplined athletes who understand teamwork, physical fitness and life values,” he said.
