Shurugwi North constituency proudly hosted the inaugural Joseph Mpasi Tournament on Sunday at Msasa Primary School, attracting more than 500 community members in a united stand against drug and substance abuse.
The event, which featured football, netball and volleyball, was graced by Shurugwi South MP Wilson Mhuri as guest of honour.
Beyond the sporting action, the tournament served as a powerful awareness campaign against drug abuse, a crisis that has gripped many communities across Zimbabwe.
Shurugwi North MP Mpasi said the initiative was part of his commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, empowering youth, and fostering positive community development.
“Drug abuse is destroying the lives of our children. We cannot afford to watch silently,” Mpasi said.
“This tournament is more than just sport; it is about building discipline, creating opportunities, and showing our youth that they can shape a brighter future. Brick by brick, stone upon stone, we are working towards leaving no one and no place behind.”
He emphasised that the tournament aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which places youth empowerment and the fight against drugs at the heart of national development.
“As leaders, we must complement government efforts to make Zimbabwe a drug-free nation. Sports and awareness campaigns are vital tools to achieve this goal,” he added.
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Villagers who attended the event praised the MP’s efforts, saying the programme was long overdue.
“Our children were losing direction because of mutoriro and dagga,” said Rudo Ncube from Ironsides.
“Now we see a leader who is taking action. This gives us hope.”
“We love football, and when we are training or playing, there is no time for drugs,” said 22-year-old Brighton Moyo, one of the football players.
“The MP’s programme motivates us to stay disciplined and dream bigger.”
Mhuri commended Mpasi for spearheading the initiative and urged other constituencies to adopt similar programmes.
The tournament, which is set to rotate across wards in Shurugwi North, will continue serving as both a platform for sporting excellence and a weapon in the fight against drugs.
Meanwhile, in the girls’ volleyball finals, Bright Girls lived up to their name, clinching the championship after a hard-fought victory over Hot Shikisha.
For their triumph, Bright Girls received a full volleyball kit, a cash prize, and medals.
Runners-up Hot Shikisha were also rewarded with a kit, volleyballs, and prize money in recognition of their spirited performance.
Special recognition prizes went to Chironde and Bethel for their outstanding contributions throughout the tournament.
The men’s soccer competition electrified the crowd, with J&P FC outclassing Spurs in the final to lift the trophy.
J&P walked away with new jersey kits, balls, and a cash prize, while Spurs were handed their own kits, balls, and prize money as consolation.
Alchemist and Sherekete claimed third and fourth place respectively, both sides receiving tournament prizes for their efforts.
All players who finished in the top three positions across the competitions were awarded medals, ensuring no achievement went unnoticed.
