UTM Party aspiring parliamentarian for Mzimba North Constituency Catherine Mzumara has launched K15 million football and netball cups in the area.
Speaking during the launch at Thumbi Primary School ground on Sunday, Mzumara, who is also the party’s vice-president for the North, said the tournaments aim to identify and promote talent among the youth.
She further said the tournaments, which will end in September, are aimed at keeping the youth busy to keep them away from bad behaviours.
the launch. | Pledge Jali
Mzumara said she has incorporated sports as tool to develop the youth in the area.
She said: “The idea is to make Mzimba North a base for nuturing sports talent. It is clear that those who are serious with sports become popular and advance their talent to another level through such competitions.”
The competitionss’ coordinator Flora Gondwe said the tournaments will start at zonal level and the top three teams from the six zones will be get prizes.
She said each zone will come up with select teams that will compete at constituency level with the top three teams walking away with prizes.
The aspiring parliamentarian has also sponsored referees and coaches’ training.
Malawi National Council of Sports regional sports officer for the North Felix Yola commended Mzumara for launching the tournament, which he said will complement government’s efforts in developing sports.
Northern Region Football Association executive committee member Joshua Chinguwo applauded Mzumara “for pumping in such huge sums of money” and appealed to others to follow suit.
He also urged other politicians intending to launch similar tournaments to involve administrators of particular sporting disciplines for guidance to ensure successful competitions.
In his remarks, Inkosi Jalavikuba said the initiative will help reduce crime rate among the youth in his area.
Apart from helping in skills’ development, the initiative will also serve as a platform for social interaction, cohesion, entertainment and promoting peace among community members.
At least 100 teams from six zones ,namely Embombeni, Enukweni, Vongo, Katope, Emanyaleni and Bwengu are expected to participate in the tournament.
