By Arnold Dube_ 

Maphisa – With just 7days days remaining before Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Anniversary, Maphisa is increasingly becoming a focal point of activity, as community-driven initiatives continue to complement ongoing national preparations.

The Guest of Honour at the occasion was Presidential Special advisor on matters of persons with Disabilities, Hon. Rossy Mpofu. Who spoke on the importance of involving persons with disabilities in sporting activities and praised His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for the initiative to bring the National Independence Day Commemorations to Matabeleland South Province. 

Being spearheaded by the ZANU PF Youth in attendance were Central Committee members, National Secretary for Transport & Social Welfare Cde Innocent Dube, National Secretary for Education Cde Shepard “Spilo” Marime, Secretary for Economic Affairs Cde Admire Ndlovu, supported by the Matabeleland South Youth League Provincial Executive led by Provincial Political Commissar Cde Lance Phiri.

Among the notable events is the Marathons 4ED Pre-Independence Half Marathon, recently ended under the theme “Run Against Drug and Substance Abuse – Empowering Youth for Economic Freedom towards Vision 2030.” The event has drawn participation from across Matabeleland South Province and beyond, reflecting a growing mobilisation of communities around youth empowerment and social responsibility.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, Deputy Director for Administration Mr Ndodana Dhlamini highlighted the urgent need to confront drug and substance abuse, noting that the challenge continues to affect young people across the province.

He commended the marathon initiative as a timely and practical intervention, emphasising that sport remains a powerful tool in promoting discipline, unity and positive lifestyles among the youth. The event, he noted, provides an alternative platform for engagement while reinforcing the broader national agenda of building a healthy and productive generation.

Adding to this, Marathons 4ED Chairman Dr Takudzwa Charles Zvobgo acknowledged the support of Government and stakeholders, crediting the inclusive development agenda championed by His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for creating space for such community-driven programmes to thrive.

The marathon comes at a time when Maphisa is undergoing significant transformation ahead of the Independence celebrations. Recent infrastructure developments, including the upgrading of sporting facilities and related amenities, are not only supporting national events but are also laying a foundation for future community and sporting activities in the district.

While traditionally major races in the region have been hosted in centres such as Bulawayo and surrounding areas, the ongoing developments in Maphisa signal a shift, positioning the district as an emerging hub for sport, youth engagement and provincial events.

As Zimbabwe counts down to ZIM@46, initiatives such as the Marathons 4ED Half Marathon are increasingly reflecting a broader narrative: one where national celebrations are being matched by grassroots action, with communities actively contributing to the country’s development agenda.