The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, officially opened the 2026 Maphumani Trophy at Ngoma, Gwanda South District, where he served as the Guest of Honour at one of the province's premier community sporting events.
The tournament brought together thousands of community members, young athletes, traditional leaders, government officials, development partners, and invited guests in a celebration of sport, youth empowerment, and community development.
Among the notable dignitaries in attendance were *Honourable Vice President Colonel (Rtd) Dr K.C.D. Mohadi*, *Honourable Dr O. Marupi*, and former Highlanders Football Club legends, including Ezrom Nyandoro, Tapuwa Kapini, and other distinguished guests.
The annual three-day Maphumani Trophy featured Under-14 and Under-17 boys' football competitions involving 11 primary schools and 12 secondary schools from across the district. In a demonstration of commitment to grassroots sports development, every participating team received new football kits and cash prizes.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Nguluvhe commended the Ngoma community for demonstrating that sustainable development is driven by unity, self-reliance, and collective responsibility, in line with the national development philosophy, "Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo." He applauded the unwavering support of local residents and members of the diaspora whose contributions have transformed Ngoma into a model of community-driven development.
The Minister praised the community for successfully delivering key infrastructure projects, including Ngoma Secondary School, the Ngoma Sports Arena, bridges, and other developmental initiatives, describing them as practical examples of what communities can achieve when they work together towards a common vision.
Hon. Nguluvhe emphasised that education, sport, culture, and innovation remain critical pillars for empowering young people and accelerating the country's journey towards Vision 2030. He noted that sporting activities not only nurture talent but also instil discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience, and healthy lifestyles among young people.
The Minister further applauded the continued growth of the Maphumani Games, describing the tournament as an outstanding model of community-led sports development that creates opportunities for young athletes while strengthening social cohesion and local economic development.
He urged young people to remain disciplined, work hard, reject drug and substance abuse, crime, and violence, and instead pursue education, sport, entrepreneurship, and other productive activities that contribute to national development.
Hon. Nguluvhe also recognised Ward 20's significant contribution to national development, acknowledging its distinguished leaders, hardworking people, and immense economic potential. He called upon Government, development partners, the private sector, and the diaspora community to continue supporting initiatives that improve the livelihoods of rural communities.
The Minister expressed his appreciation to the organisers, sponsors, traditional leaders, volunteers, schools, and the entire Ngoma community for successfully organising the tournament and creating a platform that promotes youth development and social inclusion.
Community members were encouraged to make full use of the newly established Ngoma Sports Arena, which is expected to become a centre for nurturing sporting talent and hosting competitions involving teams from across the province and beyond.
The tournament concluded with a vibrant gala featuring performances by renowned artists, including Dalom Kids, Splash, Sandra Ndebele, and other entertainers, marking a fitting celebration of sport, culture, and community unity.
Honourable Nguluvhe officially declared the 2026 Maphumani Trophy open and reaffirmed Government's commitment to supporting community-led development initiatives that empower citizens, promote youth participation, and contribute towards the attainment of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.