Harare mayor Jacob Mafume says the city is reviewing and upgrading municipal sporting facilities to ensure safe training environments across the capital.
Mafume made the remarks during his welcoming address at the inaugural Harare Mayor Cup Taekwondo Challenge held in Harare yesterday.
The tournament attracted participants from several countries in the Southern African region.
“Concrete steps the City will pursue include reviewing and upgrading municipal sporting facilities to ensure safe training environments across Harare,” he said.
“We are enhancing support for talent development through targeted funding for equipment, coaching clinics and travel subsidies for athletes representing the city.
“We are supporting mental health and bereavement services for teams affected by loss, including counselling resources and partnerships with local health providers.
“We are encouraging school-club partnerships so schools can integrate martial arts programmes that teach discipline and physical literacy as part of their extracurricular offerings.”
Mafume also stressed the importance of inclusivity in martial arts.
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“I also wish to note the inclusiveness of our club’s mission. Martial arts training is for everyone, regardless of age, gender or background,” he said.
The tournament was organised by Harare City Martial Arts Club chairman Sensei Martin Chimombe.
“The gathering is also a moment of gratitude and welcome to our invited guests. I acknowledge with appreciation the Zimbabwe Taekwondo Association for its continued guidance and partnership,” Chimombe said.
Mafume also acknowledged the presence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Jae Kyung Park.
“The Republic of Korea’s long relationship with Taekwondo has given this martial art a global profile and a wealth of technical tradition. Your presence underscores the international friendship and cultural exchange that sport fosters,” Mafume said.
He also thanked representatives from the Student Representative Council, the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, Zimbabwe Taekwondo Association president Zwizwai, Harare City Sports and Recreation chairperson Councillor Stanley Manyenga, Harare City Information and Publicity chairperson Councillor Kudzai Kadzombe, and Martial Arts Club chairman Sensei Martin Chimombe for their support.
“Your involvement demonstrates how government, civil society and community institutions can join to uplift our youth,” he added.
